Wellness consciousness is the pursuit of healthy lifestyle habits that support the whole self. It involves a broad range of aspects that include health, fitness, nutrition, appearance and sleep.
These dimensions of wellness interact with and influence each other. A lack of focus in one area may impact the other areas negatively.
Physical
The health-conscious consumer is driving a major shift in the industry, especially in OTC. Brands need to be ready for this shift and consider their options carefully.
Physical wellness encourages the balance of all elements that impact how our bodies perform, including activity, nutrition and mental well-being. It also encourages personal responsibility for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and accepting that problems in one domain can impact other areas of life functioning.
The lines between wellness dimensions are blurring and consumers are seeking products and services that address multiple needs simultaneously, such as mindfulness and fitness or nutrition and appearance. These holistic modalities are an essential part of the wellness consciousness movement. They help to restore health at the level of causation and transform the root underlying energy patterns that cause disease, discomfort and dissatisfaction.
Emotional
When most people think of wellness, they often think of the physical. However, emotions also play a major role in well-being. Emotionally healthy people are able to process their emotions and cope with life’s challenges. They are able to deal with their thoughts and avoid using substances to numb difficult emotions.
A person can improve their emotional wellness by taking steps to manage stress, fostering positive social connections, and getting enough rest. They can also work to develop their inner strengths and self-compassion. For example, they might make a conscious effort to be more mindful and nonjudgmental when they experience unpleasant feelings, such as fear or sadness. This practice can help them better understand their emotions and find the strength to forgive themselves. In addition, it can lead to more satisfying relationships and a higher sense of self-esteem.
Mental
A holistic mental wellness perspective recognizes that our thoughts, moods and emotions are just as important as our physical health. As people become more aware of the importance of their mental health, they are seeking new ways to care for it.
For example, exercise is a common way to relieve stress and anxiety. But adding mindfulness—paying attention to the sensations of your body as you move—can help you get more out of your workout.
Mindfulness practice is also associated with psychological well-being, including a reduction in rumination, worry and anxiety (Hayes & Feldman, 2004; Kabat-Zinn, 1990). Awareness also helps to clear the root underlying energy patterns behind many wellness blockages at the soul, heart, mind and body levels. This allows life-energy to flow freely and align more fully with your true essential nature.
Spiritual
Spiritual wellness is an individual’s search for meaning and connection to a higher power. This could be anything from traditional religious practices to non-religious experiences like mindfulness, meditation or art that invokes feelings of calmness and serenity. Whether you are intrinsically or extrinsically oriented, research suggests that being part of a spiritual community can have benefits for your health, including psychological well-being.
When your mind is clear and peaceful, it can help you to be more productive, happier and able to concentrate better. This is why it’s important to find time for meditation and mindfulness exercises. It is also helpful to connect with nature and find ways to relax and enjoy its beauty. This can be as simple as enjoying the sound of birds chirping, trees swaying in the wind and waves crashing on the beach.
Social
As COVID-19 restrictions ease, many people are returning to their normal lives and that means socializing with friends and family. This is called Social Wellness, and it is essential for overall health. Whether you remember the old video game The Sims that would decrease your “needs” bar if you hadn’t spoken to anyone in a while, or the more recent research that shows loneliness can increase blood pressure and stress levels, the importance of social interaction is well known.
Corporate team building activities like 5k races and group-guided mindfulness meditation can foster a positive social atmosphere in the workplace. Additionally, a company can host a day of volunteerism to give back and promote a sense of community. This type of activity can also improve mental wellbeing.
