SAMSHA.gov and Nikita Gupta from the UCLA GRIT Coaching Program defines our 8 dimensions of wellness. All material below has been repurposed from these authors for this post.
Wellness is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of the disease or infirmity” (World Health Organization). The Wheel of Wellness (SAMHSA.gov) with 8 interdependent dimensions reminds us that adult life is complex and comprised of multiple domains of simultaneous focus. At any given time, these domains are active whether one is conscious or not. These domains influence/affect each other as well.
For example, being excited about moving to a new city (environmental domain) can motivate one to put effort into making friends (social domain). Conversely, if one is feeling lonely because they don’t know anyone in their new city (social/emotional domain), they may lose their appetite which could impact their physical well-being. What’s valuable to know if that if you intentionally impact one domain with positive action, the other domains will ALSO BE ELEVATED.
At the center of the WHEEL OF WELLNESS is your well-being. Here are the 8 dimensions of wellness that make up an adult life.
INTELLECTUAL – Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills.
CAREER – Creating personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work.
PHYSICAL – Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep.
SOCIAL – Developing sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system.
EXISTENTIAL – Expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
EMOTIONAL – Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships.
ENVIRONMENTAL – Occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being.
FINANCIAL – Feeling satisfied with current and future financial situations.
What dimension of wellness is important to you and why?