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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, environmental, 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 and comfortably, and create a support network.
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.
Want to enhance your occupational wellness? Try exploring available jobs/internships at the Internship and Career Center or find a job through Student Employment.

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. Pick up fruits and vegetables at the East Quad Farmers Market or try out the offerings from Campus Recreation.

Intellectual Wellness

intellectual wellnessHave an open mind when you encounter new ideas and continue to expand your knowledge.
Want to enhance your intellectual wellness? Try attending an event at the Mondavi Center or the Women’s Resources and Research Center.

Emotional Wellness

emotional wellnessUnderstand your feelings and cope effectively with stress.
Want to enhance your emotional wellness? Try finding some healthy ways of dealing with stress, like participating in the Stress and Wellness Clinic at Counseling and Psychological Services or exploring meditation at The House.

Spiritual Wellness

spiritual wellnessDevelop a set of values that help you seek meaning and purpose.
Want to enhance your spiritual wellness? Participate in a program put on by the Program in Religious Studies.

Environmental Wellness

environmental wellnessRespect the delicate balance between the environment and ourselves.
Want to enhance your environmental wellness? Check out the services and opportunities available through R4 Recycling or go on a tour at the Arboretum.

Additional Campus Resources on the UC Davis Wellness Portal

The UC Davis Wellness Portal is your gateway to everything wellness and is the one stop shopping if you are looking for campus and online wellness resources.

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