We all understand that what it means to be healthy varies from person to person. However, most of us could agree that it involves a lot more than feeling good about how we look and how our body functions. Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is “an overall state of health that includes all the aspects of bodily well-being such as physical well-being, mind and spirit health, and social and emotional health.” Numerous other definitions have also been used over the years for various purposes.
Mental health, on the other hand, is defined as the ability to cope with life’s difficulties and cope with day-to-day activities without being at risk for illness or infirmity. When we speak of health, many people assume that it refers to a strict regimen of exercise and a nutritious diet; however, this is far from the truth. A well-balanced, healthy lifestyle comprised of a healthy diet, regular moderate exercise and a well-balanced lifestyle can do much to promote mental health. Having a positive outlook, a well-balanced lifestyle, and maintaining a healthy mental outlook are the keys to a healthy mind and a successful, fulfilling life.
People are under the impression that good health implies a long life filled with plenty of physical activities and a low fat, low-calorie diet; however, the reality is far from this. While it is true that a good diet lowers your chances of getting cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other diseases, it is not the cure-all that many people think it to be. While eating a good diet prevents these diseases and improves your physical well-being, it will do you no good if you are still suffering from the consequences of poor nutrition. In order to maintain good mental health, you must eat a balanced, nutritionally sound diet free of cholesterol, saturated fat, salt and sugar while also exercising regularly and engaging in some form of mental activity such as reading or listening to music.