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  • Writer's picturePhilippa Evans

The 7 Dimensions of Wellness… how ‘well’ are you?


We often think about our physical and mental wellbeing, but wellness experts suggest there are many aspects that contribute to our overall health and quality of life. In 1976, Dr Bill Hettler, co-founder of the National Wellness Institute in the US, developed a model of wellness that included six dimensions of health; physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, occupational and social. Since then, researchers have added environmental wellness.


If you are looking to move towards more balance in these areas to achieve a holistic version of your wellness, consider some of these practical tips.


Physical Wellbeing – eat well, move more

  • Add more whole foods to your diet- start with eating 5-7 fruit and veg a day

  • Aim to do some physical activity every day – start with a walk

  • Prioritise getting enough sleep

  • Manage stress by introducing some deep breathing exercises into your day

Intellectual Wellbeing - boost your brain

  • Challenge your mind through learning something new

  • Find a creative activity you enjoy – writing, painting, listening to music, photography, crafts

  • Visit a museum, gallery or theatre or read whatever you can, and expand your mind!

Environmental Wellbeing – respect the Earth

  • Be more mindful of your consumption – consider if you really need it

  • Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

  • Spend time outdoors – have a picnic, do some gardening, go for a walk


Social Wellbeing – connect with others

  • Plan and spend time with family and friends

  • Join a community group, volunteer and get involved


Emotional Wellbeing – take control of your emotions

  • Talk to a friend

  • Ask for help when you start to feel overwhelmed

  • Try to gain perspective when faced with everyday challenges – remind yourself that if it doesn’t interfere with the bigger picture, you may be able to let it go more easily


Spiritual Wellbeing – Find purpose and meaning in your life

  • Spend time in nature – look, listen, smell and appreciate what’s around you

  • Find 5 minutes of quiet time each day to think and reflect

  • Include a mindful exercise such as yoga, tai chi or meditation into your week


Financial Wellbeing – feel more secure

  • Spend wisely and within your means

  • Have an emergency fund

  • Seek out tools and information to make beneficial financial decisions


Take the pressure off yourself to try to do it all. Focus on one area and set some small, realistic goals that resonate with you. If you think you’d benefit with some support in creating more balance in your life, contact me for a chat about how I can help you to achieve your nutrition and lifestyle goals.

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