Keeping Well

Fitness is really important, especially now when we’ve all been spending more time at home. We’ve all been staying in for what seems like ages now, Some days are up and some days can be down – up or down we always need to make sure we are looking after ourselves.
 
While Fitness is important, it’s also helpful to remember the other elements of wellness, too. We might have to put a little more energy into maintaining our overall wellbeing nowadays -  but its one of the most important things you can do
 
What are the main components of wellbeing? Below we can take a look and then share some tips on what you can do for them.
 
What Is Wellness?
 
The 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, fuelling the body, engaging the mind, and nurturing the spirit.”
 
There are many definitions, all generally meaning the same thing - this one is from the University of California:
 
“Wellness is 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.”
 
Most experts list six to eight categories. Feel free to adapt the list as necessary but remember to keep it as broad and varied as your life.

Here’s the breakdown provided by the International Council on Active Aging:

· Physical – Exercise and nutrition are essential to maintaining independence and health.

· Emotional – “coping with challenges and behaving in trustworthy and respectful ways.”

· Intellectual/Cognitive – “engaging in creative pursuits and intellectually stimulating activities.”

· Professional/Vocational – using your “skills while providing personal satisfaction,” including as mentors, volunteers, caregivers and more.

· Social – “interactions with family, friends, neighbours and chosen peer groups.”

· Spiritual – “living with a meaning and purpose in life, guided by personal values.”

· Environmental – practicing habits that promote a healthy environment; understanding how different environments affect you. 

Some Simple Tips

1.     Move More / Sit Less. Every little thing you can do adds up. So put on some fun music and dance… stand up and walk around during the advert break, work in your garden, put away the dishes, and fold up the washing. Go for a walk, jog or bike ride outdoors.

2.     Express yourself. Write in a journal, paint, play music or sing. Talk about your feelings with family or friends - don’t be shy about calling people. Everyone is stressed about this, not just you.

3.     Limit the time you watch the news. It’s always good to stay informed, but once or twice a day should do it. More than that can lead to being overwhelmed.

4.     Order jigsaw puzzles, T-shirts or coffee mugs with photos of your family or pets on them.

5.     Meditate or practice mindfulness each day. Plan in the time and treat it like an important appointment.

6.     Keep a clean, orderly home.

7.     Read books. Talk about them in an online book club or with family and friends.

8.     Do some research for your next trip, or plan something to look forward to. 

9.     Try to be thankful, tolerant and patient with yourself and others.