After the disruptions of the last couple of years, it’s more important than ever to take responsibility for your health and wellbeing in all its aspects.
That includes exercise, of course. But we need to remember the other elements of wellbeing (or wellness), too.
Most experts list six to eight categories of well-being or wellness. Here’s the breakdown provided by the International Council on Active Aging:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Intellectual/Cognitive
- Professional/Vocational
- Social
- Spiritual
- Environmental
The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) writes “People often think about wellness in terms of physical health — nutrition, exercise, weight management, etc., but it is so much more. Wellness is a holistic integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, fueling the body, engaging the mind, and nurturing the spirit.”
The University of California defines it as: “an active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. Wellness is more than being free from illness, it is a dynamic process of change and growth.”
10 Tips to Get Your Groove Back
Here are some ways to jumpstart our activity across all the aspects of wellbeing.
- Get outside. For any reason…for NO reason. Go for a walk, jog, or bike ride. Play with the dogs or grandkids. Enjoy sports or hobbies.
- Get to the gym. We are here, healthy and oh-so-happy to help you get moving again. Or, if you’ve already been joining us, then congratulations! You’ve got a leg up on so many people still attached to the couch.
- When at home, be sure to move more and sit less. Put on some fun music and dance during chores. Walk around during TV commercials.
- Call local charitable organizations, community centers, and your religious leader to see how you can help.
- Meet friends for coffee, lunch, or golf. Make new friends here in our fitness classes.
- Limit news and social media. Stay informed, but once or twice a day should do it. More than that can lead to being overwhelmed.
- Meditate or pray each day. Practice an attitude of gratitude.
- Plan a short road trip and maybe even research a longer trip if you’re ready to fly again.
- Read books. Inside, outside…daytime, nighttime. Doesn’t matter. Just read!
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day.
“Habits very much influence health, well-being, and quality of life. If you change your habits for the better, you change your life for the better,” the NIH says.
Making good changes and reinforcing positive habits are helped by scheduling, accountability, convenience, and more.
In other words, being part of a gym or fitness community is an invaluable way to build the solid wellness you want and deserve.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.