Wellness vs Health: What’s the Difference and Why it Matters?
Are wellness and health the same thing? While they are closely related concepts, there are some key differences between the two. Understanding those differences can help you better prioritize your health goals and lead a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Defining Health and Wellness
Health is a state of being free from illness or injury. It’s often measured by physical indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index (BMI). Achieving good health typically involves making choices that support a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding harmful behaviors like smoking.
Wellness, on the other hand, encompasses not just physical health but also mental and emotional wellbeing. It goes beyond simply avoiding illness and instead focuses on actively promoting a state of positive health. This includes things like reducing stress, maintaining strong relationships, and pursuing a sense of purpose.
The Importance of Balancing Health and Wellness
Both health and wellness are important aspects of a fulfilling life. However, it’s worth noting that focusing solely on physical health can sometimes come at the expense of mental and emotional wellbeing. For example, someone who works out excessively may achieve great physical strength but may also become anxious or disconnected from their relationships and other areas of their life.
Conversely, prioritizing wellness without maintaining basic physical health can lead to health issues down the road. Someone who practices stress reduction techniques but doesn’t exercise or eat well may find that their body is less resilient to disease and injury.
How to Incorporate Both Health and Wellness Into Your Life
The key to achieving both health and wellness is to strive for balance. This means taking care of your physical health through diet, exercise, and other healthy behaviors, while also making time for stress reduction, relationships, and personal growth.
Some specific strategies for incorporating both health and wellness into your life might include:
– Setting aside regular time for exercise, ideally incorporating both strength training and cardiovascular exercise.
– Practicing mindfulness meditation or other forms of stress reduction.
– Prioritizing relationships by setting aside time for family and friends and being present and engaged during those interactions.
– Pursuing hobbies or interests that stimulate personal growth and a sense of purpose.
– Eating a balanced diet that prioritizes whole foods and limits processed foods and sugar.
The Bottom Line
While health and wellness are closely related concepts, they are not the same thing. Prioritizing both physical health and mental and emotional wellbeing is crucial for achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. By making choices that promote both health and wellness, you can enjoy a long and fulfilling life full of vitality and purpose.
