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PHYSICAL WELLNESS

My post last week was an introduction into the concept of the Six Dimensions of Wellness.

This week, I wanted to discuss one of those dimensions: Physical Wellness.

I don’t know about you, but when I think of health or wellness, this is the first area that pops into my head.

Exercise. Nutrition. Those are the main two items when I think Physical Wellness.

If I were to go into other areas of this dimension, I might think about hydration, sleep quality, a strong immune system to help me fight or prevent infections or diseases.

But the main two topics of Physical Wellness – Exercise and Nutrition – provide hundreds, if not thousands of areas to explore.

The definition of Physical Wellness, according to Dr. Hettler and the National Wellness Institute is as follows:

“The physical dimension recognizes the need for regular physical activity. Physical development encourages learning about diet and nutrition while discouraging the use of tobacco, drugs, and excessive alcohol consumption. Optimal wellness is met through the combination of good exercise and eating habits. As you travel the wellness path, you’ll strive to spend time building physical strength, flexibility and endurance while also taking safety precautions so you may travel your path successfully, including medical self-care and appropriate use of a medical system. The physical dimension of wellness entails personal responsibility and care for minor illnesses and knowing when professional medical attention is needed. By traveling the wellness path, you’ll be able to monitor your own vital signs and understand your body’s warning signs. You’ll understand and appreciate the relationship between sound nutrition and how your body performs. The physical benefits of looking good and feeling terrific most often lead to the psychological benefits of enhanced self-esteem, self-control, determination, and a sense of direction. Physical wellness follows these tenets: • It is better to consume foods and beverages that enhance good health rather than those which impair it. • It is better to be physically fit than out of shape.”

If you are beginning (or continuing) your health and wellness journey, and Physical Wellness is the area you want to focus on, this can help narrow your focus. With SOOOO much information out there, and SOOOO many topics to choose from, maybe it’s time to take a step back and “dumb it down”, as my daughter would say.

“Consume foods and beverages that enhance good health rather than those which impair it.” Go for the apple instead of the cookie today. One small choice. Have water instead of a coke with lunch. Another small choice.

“It is better to be physically fit than out of shape.” Honestly, when I first read that, a very snarky, “Well, duh!” popped out of my mouth. I’m not sure I know ANYONE who wouldn’t like to be in better shape. Even top athletes have areas of their fitness routines that need more work whether it’s stretching, more endurance, strength training…..whatever.

So start somewhere – or tweak your existing exercise routine. Add five more minutes of cardio, or just walk for five minutes if you don’t already exercise. Stretch for a few minutes before you crawl into bed. Add a few squats or lunges while you’re waiting for the microwave to beep. One small choice today.

Physical Wellness can truly affect every area of our lives. When we are physically well, it enhances the other dimensions of wellness.

Quite simply, you just feel better. And who doesn’t want that?

Until next time….
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