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Health Education & Promotion
Wellness: What is Wellness?

Definition of Wellness

Wellness is an active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life.

"...a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." - The World Health Organization

Dimensions of Wellness

What does wellness mean to you? Wellness is more than being free from illness. Wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth. There are many interrelated dimensions of wellness: physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, social, and occupational. Each dimension is equally vital in the pursuit of optimum health.

wellness model diagram; six realms of wellness

Social Wellness

social wellnessPerform social roles effectively, comfortably, and without harming others.
Want to enhance your social wellness? Hang out with some friends at the Coffee House or get involved with student programs and activities.

Occupational Wellness

occupational wellnessEnjoy your occupational endeavors and appreciate your contributions to society.
Want to enhance your occupational wellness? Try exploring available jobs/internships at the Internship and Career Center.

Physical Wellness

physical wellnessMaintain a healthy body and seek medical care when needed. 
Want to enhance your physical wellness? Health and wellness services are available through Student Health Services at Cowell Student Health Center. Try taking a class through the Experimental College, Campus Recreation, or the Activities & Recreation Center (ARC).

Intellectual Wellness

intellectual wellnessHave an open mind when you encounter new ideas and concepts.
Want to enhance your intellectual wellness? Try attending an event or seminar on campus about a cool new topic area in a subject of your interest.

Emotional Wellness

emotional wellnessWork on understanding your emotions and coping with your problems.
Want to enhance your emotional wellness? Try finding some healthy ways of dealing with stress, like meeting with a peer counselor or exploring meditation at the House.

Spiritual Wellness

spiritual wellnessBalance your inner needs with the demands of the outside world.
Want to enhance your spiritual wellness? Experiment with yoga or take a walk through the UC Davis Arboretum to connect with nature.

Additional Campus Resources

Addiditional resources are available from our page of Other Useful Links.

 

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