Physical, Mental, Emotional, Spiritual: Wellbeing is Multidimensional

In the uncertainty of today’s world, it is more important than ever to find ways to take better care of ourselves. While physical health often is the primary focus, health and wellbeing go far beyond exercise and nutrition. So, whether it is physical, mental, emotional, spiritual – wellbeing is multidimensional!

The strain of living through a global pandemic over the past two years has uncovered the deep toll it has had on the overall wellbeing of all age groups. Depression, anxiety, and stress have increased dramatically. The Surgeon General of the United States recently released a statement calling the effects of the pandemic on the mental health of youth in particular devastating and a looming crisis. 

Are there solutions to improve wellbeing and feel more satisfied?

Yes! Now is the time to cultivate wellbeing. Mental fitness is just as important as being physically fit. So, one has to feel healthy mentally, physically, emotionally,  spiritually.  

There are key areas of wellbeing that can lead to feeling more fulfilled and satisfied. Wellbeing is multifaceted and multidimensional, encompassing the aspects of mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing their interconnectedness allows for growth.  

From this multidimensional perspective, wellbeing is viewed as something that can be nurtured and enhanced. We all have a physical, mental, emotional, spiritual side that we can develop and express in our unique way.

We can work to create balance and adopt a lifestyle that provides meaning and purpose to our daily lives. Wellbeing is not a goal to be achieved but it taps into our desire, as humans, to live with greater intention.

How do we improve our physical, mental, emotional, spiritual wellbeing?

Improving our physical, mental, emotional, spiritual wellbeing begins with an honest assessment of where we are physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. 

Being truthful will help to establish a realistic baseline.

Setting aside judgment when asking yourself questions and being curious and compassionate will serve you better and lead to less frustration.

Remember,

You are simply gauging your starting point. 

For your physical health and wellbeing

You want to determine how well your body is functioning physically. 

Questions to ask yourself:

• How often am I exercising or moving my body?
• What am I eating daily? 
• What is my energy level throughout the day? 
• How well am I sleeping?
• What is my hygiene like? 
• Do I have a routine?

For your emotional, mental health and wellbeing

Mental and emotional health reflect on your thoughts, feelings, behavior, and stress level throughout the day.

Questions to ask yourself: 

• How am I feeling? 
• What thoughts am I having?
• Are my thoughts and feelings affecting my behavior?
• What is contributing to the thoughts and feelings I am having?
• Do I recognize any patterns?

For your spiritual health and wellbeing

Consider your values, principles, and connection to something larger than you which provides a sense of purpose and meaning.

*Spiritual health is not necessarily related to religion or religious affiliation. 

Questions to ask yourself:

• What makes me happy?
• What inspires me?
• Do I seek social approval?
• How deeply am I connected with my heart?
• Do I feel a sense of connection to others?
• Do I feel connected to myself?

Once you have made your assessment, add one or two activities to your daily routine for your physical, mental, emotional, spiritual health and wellbeing. Be intentional in what you include.

Whatever you add should make you feel good and enhance your wellbeing.

Take your time and go slow. These are meant to be small changes that build on one another over time. 

If you feel overwhelmed, take something out rather than add another one.

Here are some ideas to try for your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing:

Physical Wellbeing-

Move your body in a fun, new way, stretch for 10 minutes, take a cold shower, breathe deeply for 2 minutes, take a multivitamin, take a walk, sit in the sun

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing –

Read a book, listen to a podcast, clean out your closet, keep a gratitude journal, create a morning and evening routine, connect with a friend or loved one, and include something new in your day to provide a sense of anticipation.

Spiritual Wellbeing –

Meditate, watch the sunrise or sunset, do something that makes you laugh, spend time outside, observe nature, plant flowers, plant a garden, spend time with someone you love, listen to music, paint

Make your physical, mental, emotional, spiritual wellbeing a priority!

Pay attention to how you feel.

Let the way you feel be your guide to know what is or is not working.

When you notice improvements, write them down or share them with others.

Celebrate each time you do something new and enjoy it.

Celebrate when you feel good.

Permit yourself to go at your own pace.

Explore new thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Developing new habits will help to create the life you desire.