Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is the condition “of full physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of sickness and disease.” Various definitions have been employed over the years for various purposes. For some, it is a state of well being while for others, health is that feeling that you are wholly alive. Regardless of what your definition of health is, one thing is certain, every person who strives to maintain health has one thing in common.
The first step to maintaining good health is to look after your physical well being. The ultimate secret to living a happy and full life is to be as healthy as possible. Good health must be achieved through a combination of good diet, regular exercise and an active lifestyle. To achieve this, it is important to identify environmental factors which affect your physical health, as well as lifestyle and medical aspects that you can change to help improve your health.
Mental Health: It is said that happiness is the result of well-being while illness is the result of sickness. Many researchers agree with this belief because they believe that mental health is a state of positive mental health and consequently, a state of well-being. A happy and mentally healthy person is able to live life to its fullest while combating illness, depression and other life obstacles. Achieving mental health is about fighting the odds while dealing with both physical and emotional challenges. The good news is that you don’t need to suffer from an illness in order to enjoy good health.
Environmental Factors: Studies have shown that there are certain environmental factors which have a profound effect on health. These include poor nutrition, exposure to toxins, noise, pollution, smoking and sedentary lifestyles. Poor nutrition leads to poor absorption of nutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc and Vitamin D; these deficiencies in the body’s nutrition can have an impact on the entire body including the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. In addition to poor nutrition and exposure to toxins, ill health can be caused by a sedentary lifestyle and by tobacco smoke which can exacerbate any type of mental illness.
Stress Management: Defining health is also about stress management. Illness, depression, anxiety and other emotional disorders have been linked to stress and its adverse effects on the mind and body. Managing stress can have a profound impact on your overall wellbeing and can lead to improved mental health and a reduction in the impact of any illness.
Healthful Lifestyle: One of the most powerful tools you have to achieve total well-being is a healthy lifestyle. This does not necessarily mean a specific set of eating and exercise habits, but it includes a well-balanced diet, sufficient sleep, regular exercise, relaxation and regular social interaction. Avoiding common illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke and hypertension is essential to achieving a complete physical and mental wellness. Staying active and fit can help to keep you physically fit and to reduce the impact of stress on your mind and emotions.