What is Wellness?
 
Wellness is not merely being free from disease or illness.
 
Wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth
 
Wellness is a lifestyle that nurtures overall enjoyment and quality of life.
 
Wellness is a spectrum that embodies physical, emotional, intellectual, social and spiritual elements. All elements are interconnected and each equally vital in the pursuit of optimal wellness.
 
  
What are Elements of Wellness?
  
Physical Wellness: Refers to our state of physical health. Involves:
                * proper exercise
                * healthy diet
                * tending to medical needs
Emotional Wellness: Refers to expressing and understanding our feelings appropriately. Involves:
                * how we feel about ourselves and our experiences
                * awareness of thoughts, feelings, and actions
                * understanding our connection to our world 
                * how we cope with situations within our environment
                     * finding joy in our existence
Intellectual Wellness: Refers to ability to think and learn from your own experiences, being open to new experiences,  
                and the ability to question and evaluate information. Involves:
                * curiousity
                * critical thinking
                * active participation in scholastic, cultural, and community activities
                * integration of knowledge into daily life.
Social Wellness: Refers to our state of connectedness to others in our environment. Involves:
                * good communication skills
                * meaningful relationships
                * contributing to community
                * finding support and enjoyment through our connections.
Occupational Wellness: Refers to finding meaning, purpose, and enjoyment in our occupation and work environment.
                Involves:
                * recognizing and understanding how our work life serves and fulfills us
                * experiencing a sense of accomplishment and production
                * contributing to a greater good
                * being able to support self and family
                * time and money management            
Spiritual Wellness: Refers to our search for meaning and purpose in our existence. Involves:
                * identifying, understanding, and practicing values 
                * acknowledging and staying in the present moment
                * acceptance and courage of that which I cannot control
                * practicing tolerance and compassion
                * having faith