What Is Well Being?

Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a state of full physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of sickness and disease. There are many definitions used for what constitutes good health and what it takes to maintain it. Some of these definitions are from medical professionals who use them to inform patients about the condition of their health and what can be done to improve it. Some other definitions come from those that study the human condition and attempt to explain its causes, while others are sociological in nature and attempt to explain the motivation for living a healthy life.

Most definitions of health emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle in maintaining or improving one’s health status. A healthy lifestyle is anything that reduces the risk of communicable diseases or those that manifest themselves in early childhood. A good definition of a healthy lifestyle would include things like a nutritious diet, regular exercise, avoidance of diseases or medical conditions that increase the risk of mortality, and avoidance of stress.

Prevention through self-care and maintaining a healthy physical environment are the first lines of defense against illnesses and diseases. Prevention through education about wellness and disease prevention and control are also important aspects of a healthy lifestyle. The key to maintaining wellness and well-being lies in maintaining a healthy mental health and social environment. A well-balanced lifestyle that promotes emotional well-being along with physical health opens up opportunities for a person to live a productive, creative and prosperous life.