Physical Wellness
UNDERSTANDING PHYSICAL WELLNESS
Physical Wellness is the ability to maintain a healthy quality of life that allows us to get through our daily activities without undue fatigue or physical stress. The ability to recognize that our behaviors have a significant impact on our wellness and adopting healthful habits (routine check ups, a balanced diet, exercise, etc.) while avoiding destructive habits (tobacco, drugs, alcohol, etc.) will lead to optimal Physical Wellness.
A physically well person:
- Regularly chooses healthy food options, and eats a well-balanced meal, including lean protein, whole grains, complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables
- Does not follow strict fad diets, where whole food groups are eliminated
- Gets regular exercise, to include both cardiovascular and strength training
- Integrates supplementation to fill in the nutritional gaps regularly found in today’s food
- Maintains routine check-ups with their health practitioners
THE PATH TO PHYSICAL WELLNESS
Physical Wellness involves aspects of life that are necessary to keep yourself in top condition. Optimal physical wellness is developed through the combination of beneficial physical activity/exercise and healthy eating habits. Elemental components of physical wellness include building muscular strength and endurance, cardiovascular strength and endurance and flexibility.
Physical wellness is also concerned with developing personal responsibility for your own health care, such as caring for minor illnesses and knowing when professional medical attention is needed. Developing physical wellness empowers you to be able to monitor your own vital signs and understand your body’s warning signs. You’ll understand and appreciate the relationship between sound nutrition and how your body performs. The physical benefits of looking good and feeling terrific most often lead to the psychological benefits of enhanced self-esteem, self-control, determination and a sense of direction.
ARE YOU ENGAGED IN THE PROCESS OF PHYSICAL WELLNESS?
- Do I know important health numbers, like my cholesterol, weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels?
- Do I get annual physical exams?
- Do I avoid using tobacco products?
- Do I get sufficient amount of sleep?
- Do I have an established exercise routine?
If you answered “No” to any of the questions, it may indicate an area where you need to improve the state of your Physical Wellness.