It can be a common misconception that health is just physical. When we see physically fit people we usually think they are fit and healthy. However that is not always the case as it does not take into consideration genetic factors or mental aspects the individual may be dealing with.
That is why when looking at your own health, it is important to consider it from all angles as one dimension of health can be holding you back from achieving success in other dimensions. For example, people can find it extremely difficult to stick to an exercise and diet routine when they are struggling mentally. The mental struggles may be coming from work, relationships etc, so dealing with those first may be the key to having more energy and motivation for an exercise goal.
Health can be broken into five dimensions.
The five dimensions of health:
Social health: This requires the upkeep of quality relationships. A poor social life can be detrimental to an individual's health as it can increase the likelihood of feeling depressed, increase negative thoughts, decrease self esteem and increase feelings of isolation.
Mental Health: a state of wellbeing in which a person can cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully and is able to contribute to their community.
Spiritual Health: Is integral to good health care and contributes to the health and wellbeing of the entire community. It can often be thought of as simply organised religion and prayer however it also encompasses:
- The ability to establish peace and harmony in your life
- The ability to develop a strong connection between values and actions
- The ability to perceive a common purpose that links creations
Emotional health: can be defined as having confidence and/or being positive and able to cope with the ups and downs of life. Emotional health is also inclusive of self esteem and self confidence, the ability to express feelings adequately, the ability to control emotions when required and being able to maintain a realistic perspective on events and react accordingly.
Physical health: not to be confused with fitness, which is the physical capabilities of an individual's body. Physical health encompasses an individual's entire health status and usually includes the absence of illness and disease. Key areas of physical health include fitness, nutrition, sleep, rest and recovery, substance use and ailments and injury.
Remember when considering your health and wellbeing, to consider all aspects of health as each can have an impact on your ultimate goal.
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