Self-Help Information: The Dimensions of Wellness
Wellness is a philosophy of life. It is recognizing that your health means
more than just lack of illness or having a healthy body. In fact, there are
seven dimensions of wellness.
The word
BELIEFS will help you remember them. Each letter
stands for one of the dimensions-Body, Emotions, Livelihood,
Intellect, Earth, Family/Friends, and Spirit/Soul. Here are some
ideas about what a wellness lifestyle consists of for each
dimension. This list is not exhaustive-add your own ideas and
behaviors to achieve your optimal level of wellness. Take some time
to note those behaviors and attitudes that you currently practice.
BODY
I get enough sleep
I minimize and/or avoid the use of all
types of drugs (nicotine, alcohol, caffeine, illegal drugs,
over-the-counter)
I eat a balanced diet consisting of food
high in complex carbohydrates and low in fat
When I am ill, I seek medical care
If I am heterosexual, I use an effective
birth-control method consistently when I am intimate
If I am sexually active, I minimize my
risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
I take daily relaxation breaks
I do not restrict calories, fad diet, or
purge to get rid of excess calories
I exercise aerobically three to five times
a week (walking, jogging, biking, stairmaster, rowing, swimming,
etc.)
I exercise because it is enjoyable and
beneficial to my heart and health, not only because it burns
calories or fat
I do not over-exercise (for
non-competitive athletes, 3-5 times a week is plenty)
EMOTIONS
I am emotionally comfortable with my
sexuality and current sexual practices
I take responsibility for creating my
feelings
I express my feelings directly and often
I have a high self-esteem
I am free of self-destructive behaviors
I take time out for introspection
I am satisfied with the size and shape of
my body
I don't feel guilty when I fail to
exercise
I don't feel guilty when I eat high
calorie foods
I do not rely on drugs and alcohol as a
way to manage stress
I do not blame others for what I am
feeling
I treat myself as well as I would treat my
best friend
LIVELIHOOD
I enjoy my schooling
I enjoy my job
I work in a healthy place
I stay current in my profession
I earn a fair salary
I am compatible with my co-workers
I chose a job/major with the opportunity
for growth
My job is not in conflict with my personal
values
INTELLECT
-
I stay current with local, national and
world events
-
I read materials which make me think
-
I listen to and consider ideas different
from my own
-
I re-evaluate my judgment and opinions
-
I appreciate the arts
-
I am politically active
ENVIRONMENT/EARTH
I recognize my impact on the environment
and its impact on me
I minimize the use of disposable products
I recycle (newspaper, glass, aluminum,
plastic)
I walk or bike to work or class
I realize that my consumption today
affects future generations
I don't litter
I enhance or clean up the environment
I buy products and/or support companies
which support the environment
I support political leaders who are
environmentally aware
FAMILY/FRIENDS
I care about others
I recognize and appreciate interdependence
I have several healthy, intimate
relationships
I'm involved in at least one university or
community group
I refrain from abusive relationships with
members of same gender as well as opposite gender
I contribute to the well-being of my
family
I have a positive effect on others
I do not exploit, verbally abuse,
physically abuse, or deceive others
I value sharing time with others
I appreciate cultural diversity and have
friends from all walks of life
I am satisfied with social life
SPIRIT/SOUL
I have a sense of meaning and purpose in
my life
I meditate or pray regularly
My actions reflect my spiritual beliefs
I have thought about, and accepted, my
death
I have a feeling of peace
I am comfortable with my spirituality at
this time in my life
I go to church, synagogue, spiritual
meetings, or inspirational gatherings
I take time out for introspection and
reflection of a "bigger" picture
Need Additional Help?
Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Counseling and Wellness Services offer free individual counseling for these and
related issues for veterinary students (WSU Veterinary Students ONLY). For more
information or to schedule an appointment call or e-mail:
Carolyn Wyatt PhD
ADBF 1035
335-0774
cwyatt@vetmed.wsu.edu
NOTE: The information contained in these self help
documents is not to be used as a substitute for professional care. Neither the
authors, Washington State University nor the College of Veterinary Medicine
assume liability for injury incurred by following the information presented in
these self-help documents
Last Edited: Mar 09, 2007 4:22 PM
