Director’s Corner
As I sat down and started to think about what I wanted to cover in this month’s newsletter, I looked down at my name tag and thought to myself; “What is the definition of wellness?”
Interestingly, after attending several years of college, earning two degrees, holding numerous certifications and an extensive internet search, I realized that there seems to be no universally accepted definition. How is this possible? It seems like wellness is everywhere these days, we hear and see it on the news, written across billboards, discuss it with each other, and many of our workplaces even promote it, but yet, we can’t agree on what wellness actually is!
Generally, wellness is vaguely referred to as a state of well-being or a state of acceptance or satisfaction with our present condition, but the truth is that wellness is a very difficult word to define because it is an active process, which involves becoming aware of and making choices toward a more successful existence.
· Process means that improvement is ALWAYS possible
· Aware means that we should be continuously seeking more
information about how we can improve it
information about how we can improve it
· Choices means that we should consider a variety of options and
select those that are best suited for us
select those that are best suited for us
· Success is determined by the collection of life accomplishments of each individual
More specifically, Charles B Corbin of Arizona State University defines wellness as a “multi-dimensional state of being describing the existence of positive health in an individual as exemplified by quality of life and sense of well-being.
So, if wellness is multi-dimensional, what are the dimensions of wellness? While the exact dimensions of wellness can be debated, we at the YMCA believe that the dimensions of wellness fall into three categories, which are at the core of everything we do, which is:
“To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”
Now let’s take a closer look at what dimensions constitute these three categories:
Spirit
· Spiritual wellness
· Social wellness
Mind
· Intellectual Wellness
· Emotional Wellness
· Mental Wellness
Body
· Physical Wellness
· Medical Wellness
My focus on this month’ edition is to discuss the Spiritual side of wellness because its components are often overlooked as most of the focus falls to mental, physical fitness and chronic disease risk factors. In order to achieve a true state of wellness in each of our own lives or try to guide others to it, we must pay due diligence to each of these categories. Although, we may not be physically fit or free from disease; we can still strive for increased wellness by working with what we’ve been dealt!
Please enjoy this edition of Wellness News and please use the personal assessments in each category to help you become aware of your current state of spiritual wellness and then begin your process of making the choices you need to make towards making you a better you!
Spiritual Wellness
Spiritual wellness is the process of getting in touch with your spiritual core. It is a dedication that is unique for each individual. This process can vary from attending church to practicing meditation, or both. It is the process of looking within to become more in touch with the spiritual dimensions of your life.
· Explore your spiritual core — Ask yourself the big questions: Who am I?
Why did I come here? Why is there evil? What happens after death?
· Be quiet — Spend time alone and meditate regularly. Meditation is the process of being fully here, with all concentration focused on the now. By living in the present and letting go of the past and not worrying about the future, we can achieve the inner peace that we strive for while practicing meditation. There are many forms of meditation; find out which one is right for you.
· Be inquisitive and curious — An attitude of active searching increases your options and your potential for spiritual centering. Don't shut doors before you check out what's behind them.
· Be receptive to grief and pain — Pain is a deepener. Allow yourself to feel the pain fully, then ask what it's trying to teach you.
· Be and Do — Spirituality is about more than reading; it's about "doing" and being fully in the present moment in everything you do.
· Witness the choices you make in each moment — Bring them into consciousness; ask yourself what the consequences of a choice are and if the choice will bring fulfillment and happiness. Listen with the heart and be guided by messages of comfort and discomfort. If there is comfort, go for it! If there is discomfort, pause and reevaluate.
· Practice acceptance — See that life right now is as it "should be." Do not struggle against the universe by struggling against the moment. Take responsibility for your life without blaming anyone, including yourself. See what the situation can teach you and how you can share this teaching with others.
· Practice detachment — Allow yourself and those around you the freedom to be who they are. Recognize uncertainty as an essential aspect of life. See that solutions come out of problems, confusion, and chaos, and that uncertainty is the path to freedom.
· Be playful — Spirituality is in music, art, dance, laughter, singing, and all of life.
· Look for deeper meanings — If you notice that certain themes keep coming up over and over in your life, rather than feeling like you have no control over the situation, ask for the deeper meaning of the pattern to come to you. See the gift in your greatest troubles/problems/challenges. The Chinese word for catastrophe is the same as their word for opportunity.
· Take "seven breath" breaks — Stop periodically throughout the day, close your eyes, and take seven deep, slow belly breaths (breathe in to the count of seven, breathe out to the count of seven, seven times). Then, open your eyes and see your new world.
Spiritual Wellness Assessment
The spiritual dimension of wellness involves seeking meaning and purpose in one's life. Read each statement carefully and respond honestly by using the following scoring:
Almost always = 2 pts Sometimes/occasionally = 1 pt Very seldom = 0 pts
_____ 1. I feel comfortable and at ease with my spiritual life.
_____ 2. There is a direct relationship between my personal values and
daily actions.
daily actions.
_____ 3. When I get depressed or frustrated, my spiritual beliefs and values give my direction.
_____ 4. Prayer, meditation, and/or quiet personal reflection is/are important in my life.
_____ 5. Life is meaningful for me, and I feel a purpose in life.
_____ 6. I am able to speak comfortably about my personal values and beliefs.
_____ 7. I am consistently striving to grow spiritually and I see it as a lifelong process.
_____ 8. I am tolerant of and try to learn about others' beliefs and values.
_____ 9. I have a strong sense of life optimism and use my thoughts and
attitudes in life-affirming ways.
attitudes in life-affirming ways.
_____ 10. I appreciate the natural forces that exist in the universe.
_____ 11. Total for Spiritual Wellness Dimension
Score: 15 to 20 Points - Excellent strength in this dimension of wellness.
Score: 9 to 14 Points - There is room for improvement. Look again at the items in which you scored 1 or 0. What changes can you make to improve your score?
Score: 0 to 8 Points - This dimension needs a lot of work. Look again at this dimension and challenge yourself to begin making small steps toward growth here. Remember: The goal is balanced wellness.
Social Wellness
The social dimension of wellness encourages contributing to one's human and physical environment to the common welfare of one's community. Social wellness is having positive interactions with and enjoying being with others. It is having comfort and ease during work and leisure situations and communicating feelings and needs to others. It involves developing and building close friendships and intimacy, practicing empathy and effective listening, caring for others and for the common good, and allowing others to care for you. It is recognizing the need for leisure and recreation and budgeting time for those activities.
Social Wellness Facts and Tips
· Socially isolated people are more susceptible to illness and have
a death rate two to three times higher than those who are not
socially isolated.
a death rate two to three times higher than those who are not
socially isolated.
· People who maintain their social network and support systems do better under stress.
· 20% of Americans feel lonely and isolated during their free time.
· Touching, stroking, and hugging can improve health.
· Laughter really is good medicine.
· Cholesterol levels go up when human companionship is lacking.
· Warm, close friendships cause higher levels of antibodies that help
keep away illness.
keep away illness.
· A strong social network can create a good mood and enhance
self-esteem.
self-esteem.
Social Wellness Assessment
The social dimension of wellness involves developing, nourishing and encouraging satisfying relationships. Read each statement carefully and respond honestly by using the following scoring:
Almost always = 2 pts Sometimes/occasionally = 1 pt Very seldom = 0 pts
_____ 1. I contribute time and/or money to social and community projects.
_____ 2. I am committed to a lifetime of volunteerism.
_____ 3. I exhibit fairness and justice in dealing with people.
_____ 4. I have a network of close friends and/or family.
_____ 5. I am interested in others, including those from different backgrounds than my own.
_____ 6. I am able to balance my own needs with the needs of others.
_____ 7. I am able to communicate with and get along with a wide variety of people.
_____ 8. I obey the laws and rules of our society.
_____ 9. I am a compassionate person and try to help others when I can.
_____ 10. I support and help with family, neighborhood, and work social gatherings.
_______ Total for Social Wellness Dimension
Score: 15 to 20 Points - Excellent strength in this dimension.
Score: 9 to 14 Points - There is room for improvement. Look again at the items in which you scored 1 or 0. What changes can you make to improve your score?
Score: 0 to 8 Points - This dimension needs a lot of work. Look again at this dimension and challenge yourself to begin making small steps toward growth here. Remember: The goal is balanced wellness.
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