herbs-for-inflamation

The best Herbs for inflammation

by with 2 Comments Health & Fitness

Herbs and apothecary

Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to protect against infections and injuries. However, chronic inflammation can cause damage to tissues and organs and has been linked to several health conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Fortunately, there are many herbs that have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body. In this article, we will discuss some of the best herbs for inflammation and how they can be incorporated into your diet.

  1. Turmeric: This bright yellow spice is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and can be easily incorporated into meals. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is also a powerful antioxidant.
  2. Ginger: Ginger has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols.
  3. Garlic: Garlic has many health benefits, including its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. It contains sulfur compounds.
  4. Rosemary: Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is often used in Mediterranean cuisine. It contains rosmarinic acid.
  5. Thyme: Thyme is a flavorful herb that is often used in cooking. It contains thymol.
  6. Basil: Basil is a delicious herb that is often used in Italian cuisine. It contains eugenol.
  7. Sage: Sage is a fragrant herb that is often used in cooking. It contains compounds called flavonoids..
  8. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a sweet spice that can help reduce inflammation in the body. It contains cinnamaldehyde.
  9. Oregano: Oregano is a flavorful herb that is often used in Mediterranean cuisine. It contains carvacrol.
  10. Chamomile: Chamomile is a gentle herb that is often used to promote relaxation and calmness. It contains compounds called flavonoids.

Going deeper on some of the options:

  1. Turmeric: Curcumin works by blocking inflammatory pathways in the body and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Studies have shown that curcumin can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. To incorporate turmeric into your diet, you can add it to curries, soups, and stews or take it as a supplement.
  2. Ginger: Ginger is a root herb commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. Ginger works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress in the body. Studies have shown that ginger can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gastrointestinal disorders. To incorporate ginger into your diet, you can add it to smoothies, teas, or use it in cooking.
  3. Garlic: Garlic is a popular herb used for flavoring in cooking. It contains a compound called allicin. Allicin works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes in the body. Studies have shown that garlic can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. To incorporate garlic into your diet, you can add it to soups, stews, or use it in cooking.
  4. Green tea: Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It contains a group of antioxidants called catechins. Catechins work by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body. Studies have shown that green tea can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. To incorporate green tea into your diet, you can drink it as a beverage or use it in cooking.
  5. Rosemary: Rosemary is a herb commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. It contains a compound called carnosic acid. Carnosic acid works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress in the body. Studies have shown that rosemary can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis and cancer. To incorporate rosemary into your diet, you can use it as a seasoning for meat, vegetables, or use it in cooking.
  6. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a spice commonly used in baking and cooking. It contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress in the body. Studies have shown that cinnamon can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease. To incorporate cinnamon into your diet, you can add it to baked goods, smoothies, or use it in cooking.
  7. Sage: Sage is a herb commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. It contains a compound called rosmarinic acid. Rosmarinic acid works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and microRNAs associated with inflammation.
Dried herbs in dishes

An additional list of good choice herbs:

  1. Turmeric
  2. Ginger
  3. Cinnamon
  4. Garlic
  5. Basil
  6. Oregano
  7. Rosemary
  8. Sage
  9. Thyme
  10. Licorice
  11. Cat’s Claw
  12. Boswellia
  13. Devil’s Claw
  14. Echinacea
  15. Green Tea
  16. White Willow Bark
  17. Stinging Nettle
  18. Skullcap
  19. Chamomile
  20. Peppermint
  21. Lavender
  22. Lemon Balm
  23. Passionflower
  24. Red Clover
  25. Yarrow
  26. Meadowsweet
  27. Feverfew
  28. Arnica
  29. Comfrey
  30. Calendula

In conclusion, herbs are a great natural way to ward off inflammation and pain in the body. We likely already consume many herbs in our cooking and existing diet. They are nature’s medicine and can offer quite a bit of relief as they equip our bodies with the ability to regulate and maintain homeostasis especially when experiencing injury or heightened levels of stress. Please join the conversation and let us know if these recommendations are useful to you!

women-nerve

Polyvagal theory: Complex interplay

by with One Comment Health & Fitness
Woman Nervous System

Polyvagal theory is a relatively new and influential concept in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and psychiatry. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the theory has revolutionized our understanding of the autonomic nervous system and its role in emotional regulation and social behavior.

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is responsible for regulating many of our bodily functions, including heart rate, breathing, digestion, and perspiration. It is divided into two main branches: the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

The SNS is responsible for the “fight or flight” response, which is activated in response to perceived threats. When the SNS is activated, the body releases adrenaline, cortisol, and other stress hormones that prepare us to respond to danger. The heart rate increases, the lungs take in more air, and blood is diverted away from non-essential organs to the muscles, which are primed for action.

The PNS, on the other hand, is responsible for the “rest and digest” response, which helps us relax and recover after a stressful event. The PNS slows the heart rate, increases digestive function, and conserves energy.

Polyvagal theory proposes that there is a third branch of the ANS, which Dr. Porges calls the social engagement system (SES). This system is unique to mammals and is responsible for our ability to connect with others and form social bonds.

The SES is activated in response to social cues such as eye contact, tone of voice, and facial expressions. When the SES is activated, the body releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes social bonding and trust.

According to polyvagal theory, the ANS operates on a hierarchical system. When we perceive a threat, our body first activates the SNS, which prepares us for fight or flight. If the threat persists, the body will activate the PNS, which helps us conserve energy and recover. If the threat is perceived as social, however, the body will activate the SES, which allows us to engage with others and form social bonds.

Polyvagal theory has significant implications for our understanding of mental health and emotional regulation. Individuals with a history of trauma, for example, may have a dysregulated ANS that is unable to effectively activate the appropriate response to a given situation. Instead of activating the SES in response to social cues, individuals with trauma may remain in a state of hypervigilance, constantly activating the SNS in response to perceived threats.

This can result in a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. By understanding the polyvagal theory, clinicians can work to regulate the ANS and help individuals develop healthy responses to stress and social cues.

There are several techniques that can be used to regulate the ANS and promote healthy emotional regulation. One technique is deep breathing, which can activate the PNS and help individuals calm down after a stressful event. Mindfulness meditation is another technique that can help individuals develop awareness of their emotions and learn to regulate them effectively.

Other techniques include exercise, social connection, and spending time in nature. By engaging in activities that promote the activation of the SES, individuals can develop healthy responses to stress and promote emotional regulation.

Polyvagal theory has significant implications for our understanding of mental health and emotional regulation. By understanding the hierarchical nature of the ANS and the role of the SES in social bonding and emotional regulation, clinicians can work to develop effective treatments for a variety of mental health conditions.

Moreover, the theory provides a framework for understanding the importance of social connection in our lives. Humans are social creatures, and our ability to connect with others and form social bonds is essential to our wellbeing. By promoting social connection and healthy emotional regulation, we can improve our overall quality of life.

In conclusion, polyvagal theory provides a powerful framework for understanding the complex interplay between the nervous system, social interaction, and mental health.

 

Article written by: Alexandra Naddaf – Mindful Self-Compassion and Self-Regulation Coach.

company-culture

How to Create a Company Culture around Mindfulness

by with 3 Comments Health & Fitness

Corporate Meeting

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment. It can help individuals reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being. Creating a company culture around mindfulness can have numerous benefits, including increased employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall wellness. Here are some tips on how to create a company culture around mindfulness.

  1. Lead by Example

As a leader, it is important to lead by example. This means practicing mindfulness yourself and demonstrating its benefits to your team. When your team sees that you are practicing mindfulness and reaping the benefits, they are more likely to be inspired to follow suit.

2. Educate Your Team

Not everyone is familiar with mindfulness or how to practice it. Therefore, it is important to educate your team on what mindfulness is, its benefits, and how to practice it. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, or even bringing in outside experts to speak to your team

3. Make Mindfulness a Part of Your Company’s Values

Incorporating mindfulness into your company’s values sends a clear message that it is an important aspect of your company’s culture. When mindfulness is valued, employees are more likely to make it a priority in their daily lives.

4. Create a Mindful Work Environment

Creating a mindful work environment can mean different things to different companies, but it often includes elements such as quiet spaces for meditation or mindfulness practices, natural lighting, plants, and comfortable seating. Providing a peaceful and calming work environment can encourage employees to practice mindfulness throughout the day.

5. Encourage Mindful Breaks

Encouraging employees to take mindful breaks throughout the day can help them stay present and engaged in their work. This can include short meditation breaks, mindful breathing exercises, or even simply taking a walk outside. By taking breaks to refocus and recharge, employees can increase their productivity and reduce stress.

6. Support Employee Wellness

Supporting employee wellness can go a long way in creating a culture of mindfulness. This can include offering wellness programs such as yoga or meditation classes, providing healthy food options in the cafeteria or vending machines, or offering discounts for gym memberships. When employees feel supported in their wellness goals, they are more likely to prioritize their own self-care and well-being.

7. Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude can help employees cultivate a positive mindset and reduce stress. Encouraging employees to practice gratitude daily, either through a gratitude journal or simply sharing what they are thankful for with colleagues, can help foster a more positive and mindful workplace culture.

In conclusion, creating a company culture around mindfulness can have numerous benefits for both employees and the organization as a whole. By leading by example, educating your team, incorporating mindfulness into your company’s values, creating a mindful work environment, encouraging mindful breaks, supporting employee wellness, and practicing gratitude, you can help create a workplace culture that values mindfulness and promotes overall well-being.

mindfulness

Discovering Tranquility: A Beginner’s look at the Power of Mindfulness

by with 6 Comments Health & Fitness

Mindfulness gives us the ability to recognize our options and take back control of our lives. It gives us the power to become the person we want to be.

History and Origin of Mindfulness

The definition of mindfulness comes from Pali (Middle Indo-Aryan liturgical language native to the Indian subcontinent that emerged for psychological writing texts in the 5th century). Sati in Pali is the word for mindfulness and its basis is “being attentive or remembering to pay attention”. It is synonymous with awareness and presence – to not be aware of anything but what you’re directly experiencing and to lessen the weight of thoughts and mental activity.

But beyond a direct translation, the word sati actually means being more fully conscious and aware than normal. The meaning imbeds a stronger peripheral awareness with tight precision and balanced objectivity. In the last century, the world of positive psychology has amplified and spread the meaning and significance through occidental culture and across the planet.

What does Mindfulness do? 

Mindfulness is the optimal interaction between your immediate attention and what’s in your peripheral awareness, it requires increasing the overall ability of the mind over time and expanding the capacity and threshold for holding a balanced mind-state. Meaning you are aware of what’s around you but only aware enough for it to be useful and manageable and not become cumbersome. It is a balanced state with high utility and aids us in experiencing a fuller, more enriching and enjoyable life.

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Experiential Learning Exercise: Try it out!

Let’s practice a quick mindfulness exercise together now. Whether you’re laying down, sitting, or standing; feel into your feet and feel the support of the ground. Hold your awareness there and tune out other ideas or things happening. 

Then guide your awareness or attention up through your legs and note the different parts of your body. Legs, seat muscles, hips, torso, back, ribs, chest, shoulders hands and arms. Go all the way up to your head but take your time. Then notice the breath going in and out of your nose, filling up your chest and belly.

Stay focused on your chest and belly expanding and contracting for a while. 

Breath-by-breath, relax more and more into your body and let every other idea or thing happening disappear. 

Continue to practice this as long as you’d like. 

This is a quick and easy mindfulness exercise to be practiced anywhere.

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How do We Practice

Mindfulness can be specific exercises, routines and practices; or it can be a way of life.

How you choose to move through your day and the tempo at which you run your life is essentially your mindfulness in summary.

A working-definition for mindfulness is the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something. Having a singular focus and being aware of solely what you’re doing as you do it.

Oxford Dictionary declares it as, “A mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.”

Mindfulness Means Space and Pace

Mindfulness gives us the space and time to slow down the chaos of the modern world and better connect with ourselves. It is critical to our wellness because it will allow us to better care for ourselves and prioritize the right wellness activities at the right times. 

Mindset matters and we will gain greater self-mastery by practicing mindfulness meditation more regularly. 

Mindfulness will determine our quality of life and the rate at which we accomplish our goals. 

Mindfulness will allow us to experience a more comfortable and manageable life while still succeeding in everything we have set out to do.

Mindfulness Allows Us to Regain Control and Steer Our Journey


Through the practice of mindfulness, we gain the profound power to shape ourselves into the individuals we aspire to be. Delving into the history and origins of mindfulness reveals its essence deeply rooted in Pali, where the term “sati” signifies a heightened state of consciousness and presence. This concept has transcended translations and cultures, finding a significant place in the landscape of positive psychology and touching lives across the globe.


Mindfulness is the delicate dance between our immediate focus and our peripheral awareness. With practice, it refines our mental faculties, expanding our capacity to hold a balanced state of mind. This equilibrium enables us to embrace the world around us without becoming overwhelmed, leading us towards a richer, more fulfilling existence.


Calm Amidst the Chaos


As you’ve experienced through the simple mindfulness exercise, the journey starts with presence. By grounding ourselves in the present moment, we uncover a sense of calm amidst the chaos. This practice extends beyond mere exercises; it intertwines with the rhythm of our daily lives. Mindfulness, whether encapsulated in routines or infused into our way of life, invites us to tread deliberately, fostering a deeper connection with our inner selves.


At its core, mindfulness offers us the gift of space and time – the precious opportunity to slow down amidst the frenzy of modernity. This gift empowers us to make better choices for our well-being and align our priorities with our authentic selves. Through consistent mindfulness meditation, we unlock the doors to self-mastery, shaping our mindset, quality of life, and even our accomplishments.


Your Partner in Mindfulness Programming


Origins Unity stands as your ally, dedicated to guiding you on your journey of mindfulness and meditation. Whether you’re rekindling an existing practice or venturing into uncharted territories, we are here to support you every step of the way. So, take a moment now – breathe deeply, exhale slowly, connect with the ground beneath you, and accept this moment for what it is. As you navigate the path of mindfulness, remember that you’re not alone. Let us know how you’re progressing, for in unity, we find strength and growth.

Take a deep breath. Slow the exhale. Feel your feet. Accept the moment as it is and let us know how you’re doing!

virtue

Virtue: Live by Your Own Truth

by with 3 Comments Health & Fitness
Virute

Whatever this means to you, keep it, and hold it close. Fight for it. Stand up for it and represent it well in all your acts and conduct.

Your virtue is what you must live by. It is personal and deeply meaningful to you.

Virtue can often mean moral excellence or conformity to a standard of right. But your virtue is your own and what ultimately governs your life.

What makes you, you?

What helps you stay centered while still growing and improving?

“Virtues” are attitudes, dispositions, or character traits that enable us to be and to act in ways that develop our potential. They enable us to pursue the ideals we have adopted. Honesty, courage, compassion, generosity, fidelity, integrity, fairness, self-control, and prudence are all examples of virtues. – Santa Clara University

A virtuous person is someone who is kind across many situations over a lifetime because that is her character and not because she wants to maximize utility or gain favors or simply do her duty. – University of Tennessee

The dictionary defines kindness as ‘the virtue of showing love’ and the qualities of having a sympathetic, affectionate, warmhearted and considerate nature.

“The study of various writings of philosophers and significant leaders in China, South Asia, and the West led to the postulate of six ubiquitous core virtues, namely courage, justice, humanity, temperance, wisdom, and transcendence.” (Dahlsgaard et al., 2005)     

What is the strongest virtue?

“Courage is the most important of the virtues, because without it, no other virtue can be practiced consistently.” Said Maya Angelou.                                 

What can destroy Virtue? (1) moral virtues are destroyed by too much (excess) or too little (deficiency) of one kind of action, (2) pleasure and pain are a test of virtue.  -Aristotle’s Virtue Ethics (Nicomachean Ethics)             

A Founding Member of the USA, Ben Franklin, stated:  What are the 13 virtues to live by?

His list of 13: Temperance, Silence, Order, Resolution, Frugality, Industry, Sincerity, Justice, Moderation, Cleanliness, Tranquility, Chastity and Humility.

From an academic standpoint: What are the 12 intellectual virtues?

They include: intellectual responsibility, perseverance, open-mindedness, empathy, integrity, intellectual courage, confidence in reason, love of truth, intellectual humility, imaginativeness, curiosity, fair-mindedness, and autonomy.

The point being: define your virtue clearly and live by it. Hold your honor! Be true to yourself and what you believe in.

Origins Unity helps individuals, groups, and organizations work through the 52 virtues and related exercises to clearly define ourselves, our strategic vision and how we will lead others.

It is a major area of wellness. The center of our wellness is our Personal Values, and these must be clearly defined in order to live out one’s full potential, and to feel happy, fulfilled and liberated.

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The key domains from the Eight Domains of Wellness Framework that this subject includes are: Emotional, Social, Personal Values (Spiritual in the NWI 6 Domains Wheel), Environmental (we influence and are influenced by our environments), Occupational, Intellectual. And it will also likely determine the rest of our wellness (Physical, Emotional, Social, Personal Values, Environmental, Occupational, Intellectual, Financial).

Live by your Virtue. Always.

personal-growth

Personal Growth: What does this mean?

by with 2 Comments Health & Fitness

 

Personal Growth

In general terms, personal growth can be understood as self-improvement of your skills, knowledge, personal qualities, life goals and overall outlook.  

It can look different for everyone and may change day-to-day.

Personal growth is improving upon the areas we have previously identified (as important to us) as often as we can. Making sure we are working towards the goals we have outlined while becoming the best version of oneself. 

However you seek to better yourself – whether it be in your temperament, communication, education or maturity, you are working towards personal growth. 

The areas of personal growth can include: physical health, mental well-being, spiritual/personal development, relationships and connection to others, recreation/hobbies, finances, career, home/family. 

Alongside the value of gaining new insight/skills and advancing oneself; the act of personal growth is becoming greater than we are and will help distinguish us from others.

Even if you are just getting started and have not previously sought personal growth – this desire will push you to higher levels and reinforce any and all supportive drive that compels you. You will immediately strengthen your will and your output. 

Bright Green Business Growth Facebook Banner

 

How can we pursue personal growth?

  1. Know yourself – take inventory and be honest with where and how you are. Make sure you know what gets you excited and motivated as well as what deters or disrupts you. Self study is synonymous with personal growth and is the basis of of how we can improve. Try performing a SWOT (strengths, weakness, opportunities, threats) analysis and identify what you need to work on most. Commend yourself for what’s working.
  2. Learn about personal growth – there are many wonderful resources that explain what personal growth is and how to achieve it in our life. There are countless books, articles, seminars and training programs that teach personal growth. Finding a mentor and working with them can be an excellent avenue to streamline personal growth. 
  3. Study the journey of someone you admire or of other humans that may have a similar story or background to you. 
  4. Surround yourself with people who have your best interest in mind and who want to see you grow and improve. Take an honest look at who takes more energy than they give and who hurts you more than they help you. 
  5. Experiment with various techniques – examples include: visualization, repetitive speech/mantras/affirmations, mindset development and mindfulness/meditation. Use a journal and keep track of what works and what doesn’t. 
  6. Maintain a gratitude practice and celebrate any and all progress along the way. 
  7. Avoid comparing yourself to others and make sure to stay focused on your own journey. 
  8. Stay open and make an effort to meet new people and welcome new ways of thinking despite any level of prior achievement. The day we stop learning and accepting new possibilities is the day we lose the most. 
  9. Eliminate and avoid attachment – purging is a healthy practice of eliminating what we no longer need. The simpler the better – this is best path to personal growth — take what is useful and leave what is not. This instills the phrase “less is more” and helps with practicality and maintaining a steady progression in our individual growth. 
  10. Develop a sense of wonder and rediscover the world for the first time. We never know it all nor have we ever seen it all. Keeping awe and wonder alive helps us feel the zest for life and is the muse for endless creativity as well as fulfillment. 

Let’s ask ourselves:

  • What does my dream look like?
  • What scares me the most?
  • How can I approach what scares me in a proactive manner?
  • What am I most grateful for today and everyday?
  • What is absolutely essential to my life?
  • What does my morning look like and how do I awaken to each new day?
  • What drives me? What’s my why?
  • Who do I value the most in myself and in others?
  • What do the people that matter most to me admire about me?
  • What do the people closest to me wish to see more or less of from me?

Personal growth is central to how we live our lives. It enables us to live and contribute in ways in which we feel most valued, and allows us to share our unique gifts. Growth is a life long process and we never reach the ultimate level of completion. There is always something to learn and improve upon. If we keep an open mind and focus on what’s important to us, we will continue to grow, improve and realize our full-potential.

What does personal growth mean to you?

With Gratitude,

David Reveles

Origins Meditation

Guiding-LIght

Personal Values – The Guiding Light

by with 3 Comments Health & Fitness
Personal Values need to be the center and basis of our wellness. Without knowing them, we will have no idea how to direct our life. We may fall short of who we are, if we do not determine our values and how to align with them. Our personal values – the guiding light, are what we must ensure that our decisions and life reflect. Knowing what is most important to us will determine how we live our life. Our values will directly influence our work, personal, and family life. It is important to review our values regularly to ensure we are living them out.

Values are what we aspire towards

Values Are What We Aspire Towards

So long as we’re still on earth, we have plenty more time to prove them to ourselves. Values are our guiding principles and how we know when we’re living in our integrity. When we know our values, nothing can come between them. We will use our values for judgment, discernment, and decision-making. To distinguish and organize; what are virtues?

The Six Broadest Virtue Categories by Martin Seligman:

    • Transcendence – appreciation of art and interconnectedness of life.
    • Knowledge – your perspective on life and love of learning.
    • Moderation – thoughts of modesty and control.
    • Humanity – appreciation of others and the world.
    • Justice – your sense of fairness.
    • Courage – persistence and bravery in situations.

What are values?

    • Knowing our worth and respecting ourselves and others.
    • Being courageous, kind, compassionate or honest.
    • Helping others and creating a positive environment.
    • What gives my life purpose and meaning?
    • What will I not accept less than or what is non-negotiable?
Values are, by definition: intrinsically useful; considered prized, standardized or beneficial ideas of practicality; signifies relative importance and merit and are synonymous with worth, excellence, and are highly regarded. Values, unlike goals, are not meant to be achieved. They are meant to be lived out each and every day each with intention. They (should) determine your priorities, and, deep down, they’re probably the measures you use to tell if your life is turning out the way you want it to.

Values are what we aspire towards

Values Versus Virtues

Values are more the theory. Virtues are the principle or qualities to resemble. This how we define what wellness means to us as individuals, a set group or within our own community and organization. In order to determine our values, we must ask the right questions and take the necessary steps to review our life. We need to recount when we felt most happy, successful, and fulfilled; and what we would credit as the underlying mechanics or ideals that gave rise to our best experiences or version of Self.

Without Our Values, We Can Run Astray

A life without defined values can be misguided, troublesome, and painstaking. A lack thereof can make one question everything and see things as pointless or meaningless. Life is a gift of opportunity so long as we choose to see it this way. In order to find this center of living, we must write out and live our values regularly. Origins Unity helps organizations determine their values and find alignment in their life and work. Reach out today about exercises, classes, and available offerings!
social-wellness

What is The Clear Difference Between Wellness and Wellbeing?

by with 6 Comments Health & Fitness

Defining The Difference of Wellness and Wellbeing

Wellness means functioning optimally in the environment we’re in. This can take many forms and requires adaptation and customization for each individual person. Wellness also requires periodic variation and change to remain sustainable. Wellness is an active process of fulfilling one’s purpose and pursuing healthy activities that support the health of the individual and their ecosystem. The steps we take versus the end result is the difference between wellness and wellbeing.

The Global Wellness Institute defines wellness as, “the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.“

World Health Organization (WHO):

Definition: The WHO defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

The CDC describes wellness as “the degree to which one feels positive and enthusiastic about life.”

American Psychological Association (APA):

The APA views wellness as “a positive approach to living that emphasizes the whole person.”

International Well Building Institute (IWBI)

IWBI, focusing on the built environment, links wellness to “how the spaces we inhabit impact our minds and bodies.”

 

The Active Pursuit of Wellness Refers to

The National Wellness Institute defines the subject in the following manner:

    • “Wellness is a conscious, self-directed, and evolving process of achieving one’s full potential.”

    • “Wellness encompasses lifestyle, mental and spiritual well-being, and the environment.”

    • “Wellness is positive, affirming, and contributes to living a long and healthy life.”

    • “Wellness is multicultural and holistic, involving multiple dimensions.”

Exploring Frameworks: Guiding the Path to Wellness

There are many frameworks that define and aid in the management of the necessary activities to be and feel well.

Six Dimensions of Wellness – National Wellness Institute:

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When professionals pair the right wellness activities together, they are able to achieve their full potential and support their surrounding ecosystem to do the same.

Our wellness can mean many different things and we want to ensure we create a manageable plan that makes sense for our life.

A similar, proven framework is the Eight Domains of Wellness: Physical, Emotional, Social, Environmental, Personal Values, Occupational, Intellectual, Financial. 

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Workplace Wellbeing is the Result of Wellness in Action

Wellbeing is said to be the end state or result of the wellness activities that hold our life together. We use our wellness to achieve or maintain our wellbeing.

Wellness and wellbeing, while closely linked, do diverge in their aims. While wellness entails the cultivation of healthy practices and positive routines, wellbeing emerges as the radiant blossom of these efforts. Wellbeing, the holistic outcome of wellness, transcends physical vitality. It embodies contentment, balance, and a profound alignment with one’s core values and purpose. The journey of wellness is the vehicle, and wellbeing is the destination—an intricate tapestry woven by conscious choices and active participation.

Crafting a Personal Wellness Plan: Making Sense of Life

We can take many approaches to the management of our wellbeing. For example, it is best to do at least a monthly review of our wellness action plan so that we are adequately prepared for each area included. We can also perform this at more rapid succession or space it out at greater length.

Other ideas are to choose one day per week to work on a specific domain of wellness. Or dedicate two hours each weekend to all or one area of our wellness. These are just a few examples and when working with a dedicated wellness coach, you can better organize what activities make the most sense to do and when.

Defining Personal Purpose in Wellness

The important thing to consider is what does wellness mean to us. Wellness starts with personal virtues and how we wish to organize and guide our life.  How do we define wellness and what do we want to focus on. This will give us a sense of purpose and empowerment and will provide the discipline to carry out the necessary activities when we are due to and when our motivation fades.

In the intricate tapestry of modern life, wellness emerges as a dynamic force that propels us toward personal fulfillment. As we navigate the journey of wellness, we embrace the beauty of adaptation, the necessity of change, and the power of conscious choices.

This journey culminates in wellbeing – a state where our intentional efforts come together to create harmony within ourselves and the world around us. Through personalized strategies, well-defined purpose, and a commitment to growth, we harness the potential to thrive in a world that continually transforms.

Reach out today about a wellness plan for you or your organization!

Origins Unity is your partner in success!