1.4 The Eight Dimensions of Wellness
In this book, wellness is explored through eight distinct yet interconnected dimensions. Let’s take a closer look at each dimension and what it encompasses. Note that some topics may fall under multiple dimensions of wellness.
Physical
Physical wellness is arguably the most well-known of the eight dimensions. It represents the choices one makes to proactively and continually care for one’s physical body. In this sense, the body refers to a human’s complete physical structure, including bones, muscles, organs, tissues, and any biological processes that support life and function. Several practices are linked to the promotion of physical wellness:
- Regular Physical Activity and Exercise – Finding ways to move your body regularly in a structured or unstructured fashion.
- Proper Nutrition – Feeling your body with nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and considering portion sizes.
- Adequate Sleep – Getting enough high-quality rest to allow your body to recover and repair itself.
- Proper Hygiene – Bathe or shower regularly, wash your hands, and be mindful of airborne pathogens that can make you sick.
- Healthcare Check-ins – Stay on top of regular check-ups, vaccinations, and any necessary treatments or screenings.
Emotional
Emotional well-being is assessed by one’s ability to identify, process, understand, and express emotions in a constructive way. An emotion is defined in this book as a naturally occurring instinctive state of mind. Here are some topics discussed that are closely linked to emotional wellness:
- Mindfulness – Staying present and aware of the moment can help you notice emotional states as they arise, giving you a moment of pause before you react.
- Crucial Conversations – Handling high-stakes discussions where opinions vary, emotions run strong, and the outcome can significantly impact relationships or results.
- Resilience – Adapting, recovering, and growing stronger when faced with adversity, challenges, or stress.
- Self-Compassion – Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a close friend.
Intellectual
Intellectual well-being is cultivated by one’s willingness and ability to learn and broaden their understanding of the world. This includes considering old and new ideas, questioning preconceived beliefs, actively seeking learning opportunities, embracing curiosity, and engaging in creative pursuits. Some concepts linked to this dimension include:
- Critical Thinking-Asking questions – exploring different perspectives, and challenging your own assumptions.
- Humility – Recognizing that your knowledge is always incomplete, staying open to new insights and being willing to admit when you are wrong.
- Work vs. Play – Balancing dedicated effort with moments of fun, spontaneity, and exploration can spark creativity and make the learning process more engaging and sustainable.
Spiritual
Spiritual wellness involves the pursuit of inner peace, harmony, and truth. This involves connecting with, or growing closer to, something greater than yourself and is typically facilitated by faith, nature, community, or personal mission. Consider these core elements:
- Coherence – Creating a set of values or principles and striving not to act in contradiction to them.
- Reflection – Spending time alone to thoughtfully examine one’s experiences, actions, views, and values.
- Tolerance – Accepting and respecting differences in opinions, beliefs, behaviours, and identities in others.
- Forgiveness – Deliberately letting go of resentment, anger, or the desire for revenge toward someone who has caused you or someone else harm.
Social
The pursuit of social wellness is represented by one’s ability to connect and interact with people and emphasizes the importance of meaningful relationships. Consider these concepts:
- [Mis] Communication – Understanding how the communication process works, identifying where lapses of communication may have taken place and being able to effectively express your needs and feelings while actively listening to others.
- Personalities – Recognizing that each person has a unique personality enables you to better understand their behaviours, motivations, and preferred ways of interacting.
- Relationships – Cultivating meaningful relationships to help you share joys, handle challenges, and feel less isolated.
- Empathy – Understanding and sharing the feelings, thoughts, and perspectives of others.
Environmental
Environmental wellness is practiced with the goal of optimizing one’s external surroundings. External surroundings, in this sense, refers to the physical, social, and cultural surroundings in which you live, work, and interact. Consider:
- Safe and Clean Spaces – Keep your living and working areas within your control, tidy, organized, and free from hazards.
- Sustainability – Reusing, recycling, reducing waste, and being mindful of your consumption habits.
- Connection with nature – spending time outdoors, appreciating green spaces, and supporting environmental initiatives.
Occupational
Sometimes referred to as vocational or professional wellness, occupational well-being is assessed by one’s ability to find fulfillment from work. Work is defined as any activity or effort (paid or unpaid) undertaken to achieve a purpose or goal. Consider:
- Work-Life Balance – Avoid burnout by setting boundaries around your work hours and responsibilities.
- Career Fulfillment – Pursuing a career or vocation that aligns with your strengths, interests, and values.
- Opportunities for Advancement – Seeking out challenges, additional training, or certifications that help you grow professionally and personally.
Financial
Finances are not glamorous per se, but they remain an integral part of achieving optimal being. Financial well-being is defined as one’s ability to achieve financial freedom and stability in the present and future. Some key components include:
- Saving and Investing – The power of compound interest and setting money aside for emergencies, future goals, and retirement.
- Loans & Debt – Using loans and credit cards wisely, paying balances in full and on time, and avoiding high-interest debt to maintain financial stability.
- Budgeting – Tracking income and expenses to avoid living beyond your means.
