(Written by Lee Health for Engage Estero’s Health Council)
Much has been mentioned on news programs and other media about Wellness. However, it is seldom explained or fully understood. During a meeting of Engage Estero’s Health Council earlier this year when this topic was discussed, Lee Health kindly offered to prepare the following article.
The word “Wellness” is everywhere these days, but what is it and what does it mean for you? True wellness involves much more than just physical health. Wellness promotes change, growth, education, happiness, preventive health, and achieving lifelong goals.
Lee Health has developed a “Wellness Wheel” that can help enhance individual’s wellbeing. Developed by accredited health and wellness experts, the Wellness Wheel is considered an important starting point to begin the process.
To help maintain balance and prioritize areas essential for your health and happiness, the Wellness Wheel was designed with six “spokes,” or lifestyle strategies, that provide a roadmap for success.
Mental and behavioral health. Caring for your emotional and psychological wellbeing is just as important as physical self-care. Prioritize getting enough sleep, healthy eating, regular exercise, and staying socially connected to support mental health. When feeling down or worried, coping strategies such as meditation, mindfulness and thinking positively can certainly help. But sometimes behavioral and mental health counseling can help when our challenges begin to affect our quality of life. Untreated behavioral issues such as anxiety and depression can affect our ability to participate in healthy habits. No matter how you’re feeling, always remember that you are not alone and that help is available.
Purpose driven living. Having a sense of meaning and direction can motivate you toward a more fulfilling life. Reflect often on your core values and what brings you joy to ensure your daily actions align with your purpose. Volunteer work, creativity, community connection and meditation on purpose can help you live intentionally. Keep an open, growth-focused mindset to continue evolving.
Stress Management. Some stress is normal, but too much can quickly hurt mental and physical health. To control stress, you can practice calming rituals like meditation, journaling, deep breathing, and taking quiet walks outdoors. Meditation through mindfulness, visualization, or mantra chanting can provide mental clarity. Saying no to extra duties helps keep balance. Also make time to recharge by doing things you enjoy. There’s plenty of research that says keeping stress managed boosts your resilience to life’s challenges.
Sleep. Quality sleep recharges the body and brain, says Dr. Jose Colon, a Lee Health physician certified in sleep medicine, neurology, and lifestyle medicine. He advises aiming for 7-9 hours nightly and keeping a consistent bedtime routine. “Sleep hygiene is vital to boosting the health of our immune system, which defends the body against infection. You should try to go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time every day.” Dr. Colon also notes drinking too much alcohol can interfere with sleep, especially the deep sleep that’s critical for your body’s antiviral immune response. Other key habits to develop for better sleep include limiting screen time before bed and creating a cool, comfortable sleep environment. Getting enough sleep improves mood, focus and decision-making throughout the day. It’s vital for health.
Nutrition. “Eating balanced, nutritious foods gives you energy and supports the body’s needs. Fuel up on antioxidants, healthy fats, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains,” Erika Graziani, a registered dietitian with Lee Health. “Staying hydrated is important too. Meal prepping helps make healthy choices. Though occasional treats are fine, keeping your diet focused on nourishing foods makes you feel great.”
Physical activity. “Regular exercise provides all kinds of benefits,” says Jamie Hoover, a personal health advocate with Lee Health Coconut Point. “Mix up cardio, strength training and yoga. Getting outside for walks or bike rides is motivating. Track your activity so you get at least 30 minutes each day, if you can. Moving your body energizes you mentally and physically. You’ll always feel better on days you’re active.”
Healthy habits put you in control
While there are many options available from various organizations to assist those who are interested in improving their wellness, Lee Health’s does have certified experts and wellness champions to assist you if you are interested.
Engage Estero is an all-volunteer, nonpolitical, nonprofit Community Engagement Association. We exist to inform citizens of significant community issues and encourage citizen engagement to favorably impact the quality of life in greater Estero.
“Be Informed, Get Engaged, and Make an Impact!”
