Principles of Wellness

1. Principles of Wellness

2. Defining Health • “A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (World Health Organization) • The condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit: especially: freedom from physical disease or pain…the general condition of the body” ((Webster’s Dictionary)

3. Wellness A process of making informed choices that will lead one, over a period of time, to a healthy lifestyle that should result in a sense of well-being.

4. Components of Wellness Social Spiritual Physical Emotional Mental (Occupational) (Financial)

5. Wellness Is. . . • Wellness is not just physical health • Wellness is about balance • Wellness is about living in the moment in a way that ensures a healthy future • Wellness recognizes that perception is as important as reality • Wellness is not just about numbers • Wellness is about connecting the mind, body and spirit

6. Use Healthy Behavior and Healthy Decision Making to Add Years to Your Life

7. Add Years to your life by: 1. Regular exercise 2. Adequate sleep 3. A good breakfast 4. Regular meals 5. Weight Control 6. Abstinence from smoking and drugs 7. Moderate use of (or abstinence from) alcohol

8. Following 6 of the 7… • Greatly improves quality of life • Men can add 11 years to their lives • Women could add 7 years to their lives

9. Summary • Health by definition is a universal trait • Wellness emphasizes each individual’s potential and responsibility for their health • By balancing the 5 components of wellness, an individual may prevent disease and premature death to some degree • Incorporating low-risk health enhancing behaviors may add years to an individual’s life