Health, according to the World Health Organization, is “a state of full physical, emotional and social well-being and no matter how poor health may be, it does not diminish one’s dignity.” Various definitions have been employed over the years for various purposes. According to the National Institutes of Health definition of health, “health” means that “the quality of a person’s health or his capacity to carry out his activities with standard capacity; the ability to maintain his bodily functions and his psychological well-being.” It also includes the capacity to manage his resources and learn new ones. In simple terms, health encompasses one’s capacity to live well. It is a state in which the capacity to do the appropriate things with a minimum of effort is enhanced and the ability to cope up with the adverse events is hindered.
The definition of “adequate health” differs from that of a definition of “being healthy” in that the latter focuses more on the preventative aspects than the ability to cure or treat. This focus has led many to define health in terms of the absence or poor quality of health. One of the areas being tackled in this regard is that of diet and nutrition. Most of the people being treated have varying degrees of dietary deficiency and this needs to be addressed seriously. Some of the diseases and their consequences include stunted growth, immunity suppression, chronic fatigue, infertility, pre-existing diseases, weight gain, cancer, osteoporosis, hypertension, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, infections, neurological conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune diseases.
Health and wellness are a concept, and a lifestyle which are a way of life. It is comprised of general health, which is concerned with the total condition of your body, mind, and spirit. Then there is physical well-being, which concerns yourself with your internal organs, bones, muscles, joints and blood vessels. Mental well-being refers to your state of mind, motivation, attitude, and disposition. There is also spiritual well-being, which is very important to your well being. Wellness is a life-long process which start in childhood and continues through your adult life.
The basic premise behind the concept of health and wellness is that you are what you eat, and this definition is very sound. The foods we choose to eat, and the lifestyle that we lead can have a profound effect on our health. A well balanced diet that includes a variety of food is crucial to your optimal state of health. You may choose to follow a religious, or cultural path in terms of following a diet, but the first and most important rule is to be healthy and eat what is right for you. Avoiding or limiting certain foods that are part of your culture, religion, or background can actually have a detrimental affect on your health and wellness.
Health and wellness therefore are having good health and a good quality of life. The key word here is good. Having good health and wellness involves the entire body, mind, and spirit. Having a good balance of all of these aspects is not possible if you are living in an unhealthy physical environment, with poor quality of life. Poor health leads to physical illness and disease, and poor well-being can have a negative impact on your mental health as well.
As an individual, you have the power to control your health and well-being. If you are suffering from a physical illness or disease, then it is imperative that you see a doctor. However, if you are not taking preventive measures, then you are setting yourself up for more health complications in the future. A good, healthy diet, exercise, and a mental wellness routine will go hand in hand to ensure that you maintain good health. Staying fit and healthy is not only good for your current condition, but will prevent you from getting sick and triggering more serious illness down the road.