Health and Wellness Interconnected
Health and wellness are interconnected, involving physical, mental, and social well-being. Several definitions from reliable sources are noted below.
Wikipedia’s Definition
According to Wikipedia,
Health has a variety of definitions, which have been used for different purposes over time. In general, it refers to physical and emotional well-being, especially that associated with normal functioning of the human body, absent of disease, pain (including mental pain), or injury.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary Definition
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, health is:
- the condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit
- the general condition of the body
- a condition in which someone or something is thriving or doing well
World Health Organization (WHO) Definition
According to the WHO’s constitution:
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.
WHO’s definition emphasizes that health goes beyond avoiding illness or physical ailments. It highlights three key dimensions of well-being:
- Physical well-being: The body’s ability to function effectively, free from disease or physical limitations.
- Mental well-being: A state of psychological and emotional stability, where individuals can cope with stress and make sound decisions.
- Social well-being: Healthy relationships and interactions with others, fostering a supportive and connected community.
This holistic definition underscores the idea that health is a multifaceted concept, requiring balance in all areas of life to achieve overall well-being.
