You’re more than your numbers  

Do you know the eight elements of wellness? When it comes to your health, there are lots of things you can measure. You can track your heart rate, your body mass index (BMI), and how many calories you eat each day. Your healthcare provider will monitor and record your blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure and more.  

“While knowing your health numbers is important to make sure you are within healthy ranges, there is more to achieving wellness than numbers on your chart,” said Sean Beach, L.D., R.D., Genesis Diabetes & Nutrition Education. Wellness also involves being free from illness, being proactive about your health and enjoying life. 

Discuss how to optimize your personal wellness with your healthcare provider and use the eight elements of wellness to improve.  

Eight elements of wellness 

Each of these building blocks is essential to your overall health.

1. Emotional – Understand your feelings and coping with stress 

Tips: 

• Pay attention to self-care 

• Practice relaxation techniques 

• Develop skills to learn from experiences 

2. Environmental – Live a life that is respectful of the planet 

Tips: 

• Connect with nature 

• Protect the environment 

• Raise your awareness of your impact on the earth 

3. Financial – Learn to manage your expenses 

Tips: 

• Understand how to responsibly handle your money 

• Avoid financial stress by anticipating expenses 

• Use online apps to track your spending 

4. Intellectual – Have an open mind about new ideas 

Tips: 

• Explore educational opportunities 

• Be curious and expand your knowledge 

• Participate in cultural events 

5. Occupational – Take satisfaction in your work 

Tips: 

• Take pride in your achievements 

• Feel a sense of contribution 

• Enjoy what you do 

6. Physical – Keep your body healthy 

Tips: 

• Visit your doctor for check-ups and screenings and make an appointment if you notice anything unusual. 

• Eat a nutritious diet 

• Stay active 

• Get enough rest 

7. Social – Build healthy relationships 

Tips: 

• Create a support network 

• Develop intimate relationships 

• Strengthen bonds with family 

8. Spiritual – Develop values to help you seek purpose 

Tips: 

• Use resources to cope with problems 

• Practice the religion of your choice 

• Meditate