Defining Health and Healthy Lifestyle
Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is “an entire state of full physical, mental and social health and not the absence of illness and infirmity”. A number of definitions have also been used over the years. For instance, “health” is often defined as the condition of being in good general health with no defects that would be considered a concern in one’s life. On the other hand, “health” can also mean the condition of having an optimum number of organs or parts functioning properly in the body and is not controlled by anything beyond the person’s power.
It’s important to note that the definition of “well-being” differs from being healthy and unhealthy. Some consider being ill, mentally ill or physically sick to be part of the definition of well-being, while others think otherwise. When you look at the positive effects that taking care of your health can have on your life, you may wonder whether it is even possible to achieve and maintain good health without any type of illness or infirmity. If you have a good and healthy diet and exercise routine combined with a good and active lifestyle, you can say that you are living a well-balanced life. You can look at it as the result of your personal efforts and dedication as well as your personal attitudes and priorities.
Other people have opted to define health as an absence of illness or infirmity. This may sound as if there are some problems with the previous definition. However, it is important to note that illness is something that goes away after treatment. Illness, on the other hand, is something that is ongoing and can have harmful consequences if left untreated. Therefore, when we speak of “wellness”, we are talking about ongoing quality of life as perceived by the person.
Many studies show that older adults have very different perspectives on health and wellness compared to younger adults. Elderly people suffer from more health complaints, even if they live long and healthy lives. They are more likely to experience pain and suffering and disability, and have less opportunities for quality life. In many developed countries, it is estimated that elderly people have poorer life expectancy than the young adult population. There is a huge problem in this area and this is one of the reasons why health policy makers are focusing on ensuring better health for this older generation.
When we talk of “being healthy”, it has been postulated that it is synonymous with absence of illness and disease. However, absence may be different depending on our perception. For example, physical absence does not necessarily mean absence of illness and disease. Physical presence may simply mean that a person experiences less pain and is not as distressed as he or she could be. Some people may perceive absence as absence of illness and disease even when they are physically present.
A healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle go hand in hand and can contribute to an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and social health. Eating a healthy diet ensures that you receive all the essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins and fats and that you do not develop deficiency diseases. On the other hand, healthy lifestyle means that you enjoy a good physical and mental health. Living a healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, balanced sleeping habits, regular relaxation techniques and regular social interaction. Living a healthy diet and practicing a healthy lifestyle can reduce the chances of developing health problems and can considerably improve your quality of life.