Some say wellness is merely “the absence of disease”. Others are focused on prevention, taking measures to varying degrees in order to adopt a healthful lifestyle. What’s important is that you define what wellness means for you.
This will depend on your values. In other words, what are the qualities of health that enable you or would enable you to live a fully engaged, energized life? These qualities of health can involve all aspects of wellness; physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental.
Let’s look at physical wellness. As I see it, physical wellness includes eating, sleeping, and moving.
You might like to create a journal and record your responses to the following questions. This will help you begin to create your own philosophy of wellness based on what’s important to you.
As you think of your physical wellness consider these questions:
How can I incorporate more movement into my day?
Tip: Think about taking movement breaks wherever you are as you go about your normal daily activities. We’re all sitting so much that our bodies are beginning to look like giant cashews!
What kinds of foods could I prepare in advance so that I’m eating healthier?
Tip: Start with something small like a daily snack and graduate to packing a lunch. Choose simple snacks and build the habit of remembering to bring it with you.
How could I create a bedtime routine that would help prepare my body for sleep?
Tip: Start winding down around 9:00pm with goal of having lights out by 10:00. Try relaxing activities like soaking in the tub, doing some gentle yoga, or reading. Don’t watch the news!
How can I up my fluid intake?
Tip: Try bringing a water bottle to work daily or leaving a gallon jug under your desk. Mix it up with a variety of fluids; warm water with lemon, herbal teas, and juices.
You may be surprised by how much better you feel by just making a few small changes.
Cheryl Jones-Reardon can help you experience greater health, vitality, and wellness! She holds a MA in Exercise Science and is the author of Mindful Exercise. She holds a Certificate in Spirituality and has completed extensive training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Sign up for her monthly newsletter at http://www.themindfulpath.com and receive a free sitting meditation download. Become a Fan of The Mindful Path at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tolland-CT/The-Mindful-Path/171781536335.
