DEFINITION

Health can be defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. It is a holistic concept that encompasses all aspects of an individual’s well-being, including their physical fitness, mental clarity, emotional stability, and social connections. Being healthy means having the energy and vitality to engage fully in daily activities, maintain positive relationships with others, and cope effectively with the challenges of life.

RELEVANCE

Individuals who are healthy are more likely to be able to participate fully in society and contribute to their communities. They are able to work, study, volunteer, and engage in social activities without being limited by physical or mental health issues. This can lead to greater productivity, creativity, and innovation, benefiting both the individual and society as a whole.

Secondly, being healthy can have a positive impact on relationships and social connections. When individuals feel good physically and mentally, they are more likely to be empathetic, compassionate, and understanding towards others. They are better equipped to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build strong, supportive relationships. Healthy individuals are also more likely to engage in activities that promote social cohesion, such as sports, community events, and volunteering, which can strengthen social bonds and create a sense of belonging.

Furthermore, being healthy can reduce the burden on healthcare systems and society as a whole. Healthy individuals are less likely to require medical treatment for preventable illnesses and chronic conditions, which can save healthcare costs and resources. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress effectively, individuals can reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders. This not only benefits the individual in terms of longevity and quality of life but also reduces the economic and social costs associated with managing and treating these illnesses.

HOW TO BE

Achieving and maintaining good health requires a combination of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here are some tips on how to be healthy:

• Eat a balanced diet: Choose a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats to reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week. Exercise can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones, boost mental clarity, and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow your body to rest, repair, and regenerate. Poor sleep can negatively impact your physical and mental health, including your immune function, mood, cognitive abilities, and overall well-being.
• Manage stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, exercise, spending time in nature, or engaging in creative activities. Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, increase your risk of developing chronic diseases, and negatively impact your mental health.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support your body’s functions. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, and digestive issues, so it’s important to drink enough water to stay healthy.
• Maintain social connections: Build and nurture positive relationships with friends, family members, colleagues, and community members. Social connections can provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, and contribute to your overall happiness and well-being.

THOUGHTS

Should and can health be a value in itself or is it something everyone should strive for? While it is true that everyone should take care of their physical, mental and social health, some people might put more weight on it than others. Hence yes, it can be a quality in itself as much as it can be a mindset.

At the same time, health entails a balance as an increased amount of something can be unhealthy again. To me, being healthy means listening to my body and my mind, giving them what they need but also regulating consciously when a habit or act becomes unhealthy. It is connected to kindness, to gracefulness, to dedication and to so much more.