Moving Towards the 8 Areas of Health

Moving Towards the 8 Areas of Health

The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) is using this year's National {Health} Week, which ends Saturday, to promote the eight dimensions of wellness.

As SAMSHA points out, health is not the absence of illness or stress. Holistic health is a constellation of interrelated elements that contribute to a balanced, more fulfilling life. The goal is to move yourself in a positive direction in these eight areas:

Emotional: Coping effectively with life.

Environmental: Having safe and pleasant surroundings.

Financial: Reducing stress around your financial situation.

Intellectual: Recognizing creative abilities, expanding knowledge and skills.

Occupational: Work (paid or volunteer) that is personally satisfying.

Physical: Caring for the body (physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep).

Social: A sense of connection, a well-developed support system.

Spiritual: Purpose and meaning in life.

One place to start: SWIMMING.