OPINION! Spiritual Wellness is as Important as Physical Wellbeing

In my previous article, I introduced you to a more holistic way of handling your healthcare needs which we defined as wellness. Today, I will elucidate on four of the eight much anticipated dimensions of wellness.

Spiritual wellness, which can be defined as awakening to your place in life and finding your true-self. Spiritual wellness may come from activities such as extra sensory perception, meditative envisioning and unlocking the power of dreams. Signs of strong spiritual health include having clear values, a sense of self-confidence, and a feeling of inner peace. In a state of spiritual wellness, one is more likely to appreciate things not easily understood like nature, music, art, religion, including deeds of others (good or bad). To improve your spiritual health, consider awakening to higher levels of reality; a higher state of awareness, conciseness, and experience.

Social wellness is developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system. Create and maintain a healthy support network as this can help one endure difficult times. Building a healthy social dimension might involve asking a colleague or acquaintance out for lunch, joining a club or organization, setting healthy boundaries, using good communication skills that are assertive rather than passive or aggressive, being genuine and authentic with others, and treating others in a respectful way. Perhaps you can purpose to make one social connection a day. Finesse is very important part of socializing with much ease.

Emotional wellness; a positive self-concept, which includes dealing with feelings constructively. People who are emotionally well feel confident, in control of their feelings and behaviors, and are able to handle life challenges. They often develop positive qualities such as optimism, trust, self-confidence, and determination. You can improve emotional wellness by listening to your feelings, expressing them to those you trust and maintaining a positive outlook on life. Over time, it helps you learn empathy and teaches you how to relate with others.

Environmental wellness; good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating surroundings that support well-being. A positive environment has a calming effect. Both your social and natural surroundings, can greatly impact how you feel. It can be hard to feel good if you are surrounded by clutter and disorganization, or if you feel unsafe in your environment. Find surroundings that encourage good physical and mental health and take the steps to feel safe in your environment.

In my next article, we shall expound on occupational, intellectual, financial and physical wellbeing.

Written by Ivan Baguma, a Nutritionist at Dr. Kasenene’s Wellcare.