What does wellness mean to you?
What does wellness mean to you? Health, fitness, happiness…something more? When I think of wellness, I think of caring for my mind, body, and soul.
Here’s what the experts have to say on the matter:
Merriam-Webster defines wellness as the quality or state of being in good health especially as an actively sought goal.
The National Wellness Institute’s definition is similar, but takes it a step further: Wellness is an active process through which people become aware of, and make choices toward, a more successful existence.
The Farlex Partner Medical Dictionary goes even further: A philosophy of life and personal hygiene that views health as not merely the absence of illness but the full realization of one’s physical and mental potential, as achieved through positive attitudes, fitness training, a diet low in fat and high in fiber, and the avoidance of unhealthful practices (smoking, drug and alcohol abuse, overeating).
Yikes! That’s pretty intense—philosophy of life, successful existence, full realization of one’s potential… What happened to eat your vegetables, move more, and get plenty of sleep?
While, the nuances of wellness are different for each of us, there are some commonalities upon which everyone seems to agree:
- Wellness is more than the absence of illness.
- Wellness requires active participation.
- Wellness encompasses more than our physical bodies.
And pursuing wellness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s not all or nothing; baby steps count. In fact, focusing on small steps can help ensure that we continue to progress without getting burned out and throwing in the towel.
For example, here are some of the baby steps I’m taking:
- Mind: reading Mindset by Dr. Carol S. Dweck
- Body: getting a monthly massage
- Soul: spending time in nature
What’s one step you will take today towards wellness? Please share your ideas with us.
I especially agree with your points about “active participation” and “more than physical” in regards to wellness. This is a topic I ponder and have been gathering thoughts about it for my blog. Thanks for sharing these thoughts and for visiting my blog Christie.
Thank you Aletha. I look forward to more of your thoughts on wellness.
I think the same as you Christie! To me wellness needs to be total and that means mind, body and soul. All three are needed to really be healthy and happy. Thank you for linking up and sharing your thoughts at #overthemoon. Have a lovely day. I’ve shared. x
Thanks Sue. Here’s to our wellness!
Great post, Christie! I LOVE the work of Carol Dweck ( I also <3 massage and time spent in nature)! My husband and I are just about to set out for our 700 km walk on the Camino trail. For my wellness, I am going to remind myself to go SLOWLY and enjoy each moment. Thanks for sharing this!
Wow – 700 km! How long does that take? Is the Camino Trail the one in Spain? I’m so impressed and can’t wait to hear all about it.
Total wellness has to be mind, body, and soul. No getting around it. Thank you Christie for attending the #WednesdayAIMLinkParty. I pinned your post on Pinterest and shared it on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter.
Thanks, as always, Dee!
Yes, as I said before –> Total wellness has to be mind, body, and soul. No getting around it. Thank you Christie for linking up and co-hosting with me at the #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. I shared your post on Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Thank you Dee.
I loved your post Christie and totally agree. I’ve written quite a bit about health and wellness and to me it has to include mind, body and soul. Thanks for co-hosting and sharing at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. Have a beautiful day.
Thank you Sue. You are an inspiring example of wellness as you sizzle toward 60!
Total wellness has to include one’s mind and spirituality as well as body. One needs to be truly at peace to actually be well. Thank you so much for sharing with us at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. I have shared on social media.
I agree, Clearissa. Our mind, body, and soul are interconnected. Wellness requires attention to each. Love working with you at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. Thanks!
Christie, I’m working on stepping up my wellness attitude right now! I have a long ways to go.
Thanks for the inspiration!!
#BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty
We can only take one step at a time. As long as we’re moving in the right direction, huh?
I like your thoughtful approach to the concept of wellness. I guess that, aside from the absence of illness, each of us must define wellness for ourselves. Thank you for linking up at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. I’m sharing your link on social media.
Carol (“Mimi”) from Home with Mimi
I agree, wellness is a very personal thing, Carol.