In the pursuit of a fulfilling life, the terms “health” and “wellness” are often used interchangeably, but are they truly synonymous? Let’s explore the distinctions and why symptom reduction doesn’t necessarily equate to genuine health.
Defining Health and Wellness
Health traditionally refers to the absence of disease or illness. It’s a state where the body’s systems operate without significant dysfunction, and symptoms are minimal. This is a great thing to achieve, but we sometimes stop here and sell ourselves short of the life we could have.
Wellness extends beyond the absence of illness. It embodies a holistic approach, emphasizing the overall quality of life. Wellness encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being. Many folks who want to live their best life acknowledge that optimal health involves more than just the absence of disease (or getting that beach body ready!)
Beyond Symptom Reduction
Let’s debunk this misconception. Clearly, we all want to be pain-free for the majority of our lives, and alleviating symptoms is what healthcare is for, right?
It’s an oversimplification to equate symptom reduction with robust health. This too often leads to short-term patches that mask the real issues. True health involves the harmonious functioning of body and mind.
A more comprehensive view of wellness considers factors such as:
- Are you sleeping well?
- Do you feel loved and supported?
- Do you take time for rest and play?
- Are you able to easily transition from being active to being calm?
- Are you able to quickly adapt and recover from stressors, such as an argument, heavy traffic or a rich dessert?
- Do you rely on stimulants like caffeine and sugar, or medication such as painkillers or sleeping pills?
True health is a dynamic balance, embracing various aspects of life to achieve a state of flourishing.
Wellness as an Ongoing Practice
It feels like it needs to be said that wellness is a lifelong commitment.
Wellness isn’t a destination but an ongoing journey. It requires consistent effort and a commitment to nurturing different facets of your well-being throughout life’s diverse stages.
Here’s a list of practices for lifelong wellness:
1. Maintenance Practices
- Chiropractic Care: Maintain spinal health for optimal nervous system function that helps every other practice to be more effective. Adjustments are for curing back pain! Regular care keeps the joints in motion and benefits overall wellness in all ages.
- Regular dental check-ups and proper oral care.
- Wellness checks and lab work to determine any deficiencies or imbalances.
2. Gratitude and Mental Health
- Cultivate a daily gratitude practice.
- Prioritize mental health with mindfulness and stress management.
3. Exercise and Fitness
- Engage in regular physical activity suitable for your age and fitness level.
- Incorporate a mix of cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility exercises.
4. Good Nutrition and Hydration
- Adopt a balanced and nutritious diet based on whole foods.
- Stay adequately hydrated to support bodily functions.
Exactly how you use these practices may change with age, but they continue to play vital roles in sustaining healthy function and enhancing the joy of life. So as your body evolves, so can your wellness routines to align with your changing needs.
Support on Your Wellness Journey
Understanding that health and wellness aren’t synonymous allows us to embrace a broader perspective on well-being. By committing to lifelong practices that encompass various dimensions of wellness, you embark on a journey to not only manage symptoms but to flourish in every aspect of life.
Ready to prioritize your quality of life through wellness? You’re not alone! It can be an investment, but we recommend reaching out for support to the amazing professionals in our community. We’d love to help you dial in your health AND wellness.
Wichita chiropractor, Dr. Ryan Dopps, serves individuals and families with specific chiropractic care to remove nervous system interference with the goal of improving overall health potential.
LOCATED AT: Dopps Chiropractic NE 2350 N. Greenwich Rd. Suite #500 Wichita, KS 67226
TO SCHEDULE: call 316-636-5550 for an appointment.
Follow on Facebook:
Join us on Instagram:
