“Wellness is a concept that involves many aspects of our lives. It is not just about physical health. It’s also about mental and emotional wellbeing, our connection with others, and maintaining a healthy relationship with our broader view of life.” – James Marquis
James Marquis, Ripstone’s in-house Psychology Coach, shares a mental health model he uses to achieve a balanced, well-rounded view of his own wellness.
Defining ‘Wellness’
The term wellness can be used and interpreted in many different ways.
The World Health Organization defines it as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.
In recent years, wellness has become a popular topic of discussion, with an emphasis on holistic approaches that address all aspects of wellbeing. One such approach is ‘The 8 Dimensions of Wellness’.
What are The 8 Dimensions of Wellness?
The 8 Dimensions of Wellness is a model that identifies eight areas of our lives that contribute to our overall well-being. These dimensions include physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, environmental, occupational, and financial wellness.
The idea is that, by addressing each of the following wellness areas, we can achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life:
Physical
Physical wellness includes maintaining a healthy body through proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep. It also involves taking care of any medical conditions that may arise.
Emotional
The managing of our emotions and development of healthy coping mechanisms. This includes being aware of our feelings, accepting them, and finding healthy ways to express them.
Intellectual
The stimulation of our minds through learning and exploration. This can include reading, taking classes, or pursuing hobbies and interests.
Social
The building and maintenance of healthy relationships with others. This includes developing strong communication skills and a supportive network of friends and family.
Spiritual
Finding meaning and purpose in life. This can include developing a personal philosophy or belief system, engaging in meditation or prayer, or participating in religious or spiritual activities.
Environmental
Involves living in a safe and healthy environment. This can include reducing our carbon footprint, preserving natural resources, and supporting sustainable practices.
Occupational
Involves finding satisfaction and fulfilment in our work. This can include pursuing a career that aligns with our values and interests, developing professional skills, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Financial
Involves managing our finances responsibly and planning for the future. This can include creating a budget, saving for retirement, and seeking financial advice when needed.
Incorporating each of these dimensions into our lives can be challenging, but it is important to consider them all in order to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life. Neglecting any one dimension can have a negative impact on our overall well-being. By addressing each dimension, we can create a foundation for a healthy and happy life.
“The 8 Dimensions of Wellness model shines a light on the wider areas that may be important to our overall wellbeing. ‘No man is an island’ and thinking about our lives in the round can help us consider how and where we focus our energy, to make positive and impactful changes.
Overall this model is a guide, or a prompt, for consideration. Ultimately, people can choose for themselves what is and isn’t important for their own wellness. Having awareness and clarity within our choices, though, is extremely valuable and helpful.” – James MarquisThroughout May we’ve shared a collection of our team’s go-to mental health models that they use to take control of their mental health. Check out the rest of them, here. Have your own model? Let us know how what it is and how you use it on the Ripstone socials.