Webster’s Dictionary defines wellness as the quality or state of being in good health especially as an actively sought goal.  Another author states that wellness is a state of being in good health, both physically and mentally, and being free of (and not at risk for) illness.  Wellness is the ability of an individual to make healthy choices throughout their daily lives that will influence and lead the individual to a healthier life and reduce the risk of acute or chronic illness.

In my mind a “well” person is someone who is physically active and exercises on a regular basis.  This is the person who does the “little” things throughout his or her day to stay more active.  Whether it is parking farther away from the front door of the store, taking the stairs as opposed to the escalator, or push mowing the lawn rather than using a riding mower, these people know that all the little things they can do throughout the day are going to be beneficial to their health.

Another image that I have of a “well” person is someone who is educated in proper nutrition.  A healthy eater is one who eats a balanced and nutritious diet, is educated on reading food labels, understands proportions and the proper amount of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats that are recommended for his or her gender and which will provide the needed nutrients for his or her body type and size.

Our country is one of, if not the most, obese country in the world.  The two leading risk factors that contribute to this statistic are a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition.  The latest statistic from the CDC shows that 33 states had an obesity prevalence equal to or greater than 25% of the state’s total population.  In 2009, only Colorado and the District of Columbia had a prevalence of obesity less than 20%.

Obesity is one of the most preventable risk factors for many other diseases and chronic conditions such as: hypertension (high blood pressure), type II diabetes, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), coronary heart disease, stroke, and many forms of cancer.  If people are able and willing to change his or her current lifestyle they will be giving the most gracious gift to their loved ones, the gift of life, allowing each and every one of them the opportunity to see their children and grandchildren grow and live long and happy lives.

Alcohol in moderation, omitting smoking and other drugs is also what I consider a “well” person.  I have many friends and family that are “binge drinkers” and “chain smokers.”  Being a health professional and seeing all the devastating effects that cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol consumption has on the body makes it even more difficult for me to watch them do this to themselves.  I have tried several scare tactics; however some of my family and friends are very stubborn.

Social, emotional, and spiritual wellness is a huge contributor to a “well” person.  “Well” people enjoy being with and interacting with others, have a great support system, are part of support systems for others, and have a deep faith in his or her religion.  I also strongly believe that everyone in his or her lifetime must love and have been loved by someone.  This someone doesn’t have to be a significant other; it can be a family member, a friend, or even a pet.  The feeling of warmth and happiness that comes with loving and being loved is like none other.  It makes an individual feel needed, special, and important to someone.  “Well” people do not dwell on the negatives in life and make the most out of the positives.  They take unfortunate events and learn from them, making them stronger for the days ahead.

Wellness is a multidimensional state of being, exemplified by quality of life and a sense of well-being.  Live life to its fullest and make the most of each and every day.  These things, along with regular exercise and proper nutrition, make it worth getting out of bed each morning and give an individual the image and definition of wellness.

Megan Kremer, PT, DPT