December 19, 2016 | Connectedness, Mental Health
How do you define “wellness?” While physical well-being may be the first thing that comes to mind, there are several dimensions by which wellness can be measured. Western medicine does not always address the ways in which spiritual and emotional health play into overall wellness. Instead of compartmentalizing these areas of life, we can benefit from taking holistic approach that recognizes the benefits of spirituality, the power of the mind/body connection, and the importance of having meaningful work and relationships
Six Dimensions of Wellness
Dr. Bill Hettler of the National Wellness Institute has developed a model with six dimensions of wellness that should be addressed for overall health: occupational, physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional. By using an interconnected approach for all of the dimensions, it opens the pathway to optimal health and wellness. This approach is beneficial if you want to achieve your full potential because it addresses the whole person.
Improving Spiritual Wellness
Since spiritual wellness is one of the six dimensions, it is important to find ways to develop your spiritual life if you want to improve your overall health and wellness. Here are a few ideas that you might consider:
- Ask Spiritual Questions: Look for ways to dig into your your spiritual core by asking questions about who you are and who you want to be, such as: What is my purpose? What do I value in life? Where am I going? Engage the people close to you in a dialogue, or consider joining a discussion group.
- Work Through Emotions: Humans are emotional creatures, but too often we stuff those emotions down. Instead of hiding your feelings, get them out by writing your thoughts in a journal at the end of the day. Or, express your feelings through art, music or dance.
- Take a Yoga Class: Yoga offers a way to connect the body and the soul. By removing emotional and physical stressors through exercise you can open the pathway to spiritual enlightenment. Other physical activity like running can also have this effect.
- Meditate: Plan time in your busy schedule to connect with yourself. Even 10 minutes of relaxation and freeing your mind can make a difference to improve your spiritual wellness. There are now many phone “apps” that can guide you through a quick meditation!
At Windward Life Care, we work with each client to personalize a plan for wellness that takes into account spirituality as well as physical and emotional well-being. Talk to us today to learn more!