W E L ofL A Culture
WELLNESS
NESS How individuals and organizations can support a healthier community.
BY JENNY L. WORKMAN, BOONE HEALTH COMMUNITY HEALTH MANAGER
W
hen most people hear the words health or wellness, they may think of diet and exercise, but health and wellness go far beyond what we eat or how we move our bodies. According to the World Health Organization, or WHO, health is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.” Our health matters whether or not we have an illness or medical condition, and it can be affected by our economic situation, physical environment, personal characteristics and behaviors. We can’t always choose the state of our health, but we can make active, conscious decisions to foster wellness. The WHO defines wellness as the optimal state of health for groups and individuals. It’s a positive approach to living and an active process of change and growth to feel our best. Wellness covers multiple areas of our lives, including emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. For each area, we can take active steps to improve our overall wellness.
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BOONE HEALTH
Dimensions of Wellness
(and how to support them)
Summer 2021
SOCIAL: Connect with our family, friends, colleagues and community and build a strong support system. • • • • •
Reconnect with old friends or meet new people. Enjoy family dinners or lunch with coworkers. Volunteer in your community. Join a club or organization. Express your gratitude for others and give compliments.
EMOTIONAL: Develop and strengthen skills to cope with stress. • • • • •
Establish a routine. Laugh! Don’t take life so seriously. Seek support from family members, friends or a professional counselor. Practice mindfulness activities. Make and keep a gratitude list.
PHYSICAL: Prioritize your body’s needs for physical activity, balanced nutrition, sleep and medical care. • • • • • •
Use a standing workstation or yoga ball at your desk. Join a recreational league or team sport. Replace sugary snacks with whole fruit. Get a good night’s sleep by turning off electronics before bedtime. If you smoke, make a plan to quit. Set up your medical home with a primary care provider and get regular check-ups and recommended health screenings.
INTELLECTUAL: Exercise your creative abilities and expand your knowledge and skills. • • • • •
Do crossword puzzles or other brain games. Attend a play, sporting event, or live concert. Learn how to play an instrument or speak another language. Read for pleasure. Attend a community class or workshop to learn a new skill.
