I just read an excellent article that I want to pass along to you:

A life of wellness… or not?

By Gilles Lamarche, DC

The term wellness has been utilized within the chiropractic profession for decades.

Now, when you look around, you will notice it being utilized in so many other industries, as well.

What is the definition of wellness? You hear it in the news, you read it on billboards, you see it on commercial signs, people talk about it in social settings and at work, but interestingly enough, there is no universally accepted definition.

You would think that the definition would certainly relate to health. The definition of health as described by The World Health Organization (WHO) is as follows:

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”1 This definition has not been amended since 1948.

If this is the case, then why are we such a sick society? Why have most healthcare practitioners not embraced the definition and what can you as a chiropractor do to help humanity discover improved health and well-being?

The goal is to get you to embrace this concept and serve your patients so they will get the “big idea.”

The WHO definition embraces total health, which can also be referred to as wellness — which in most circles is a tough word to define.

Charles B. Corbin of Arizona State University gives this definition: “Wellness is a multidimensional state of being describing the existence of positive health in an individual as exemplified by quality-of-life and a sense of well-being.” 

This is not much different than the definition written by WHO 60 years ago. Even though the words may be different, the concept is not. Wellness is an ongoing and active process of becoming aware and making consistent wise choices toward a more successful and fulfilling life.

If you break that down it means:

• Process shows that improvement is possible;.

• Awareness means we are seeking information on how to improve;

• Choice refers to having options, and our capacity to select options in our best interest; and

• Success is determined by each person. In the context of health, most would consider success to be related to the capacity of living a fulfilled life based on each individual’s expectations — living a life filled with joy, vitality, energy, and an overall sense of accomplishment.

The most commonly described subdimensions of wellness include: physical, mental, spiritual, social, occupational, financial, emotional, and family well-being.

Physical, mental, and spiritual well-being relate directly to the art, science, and philosophy of chiropractic. Since subluxations can be caused by physical, chemical, or emotional stresses, it makes sense to communicate a clear and consistent message relating to the appropriateness and effectiveness of chiropractic care in order to improve the health of the nation.(Read more at: chiroeco.com)

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Athletes are particularly at risk when it comes to functional challenges created by dehydration. “Physiologically, their core body temperature could be higher than it should have been if they were hydrated. Their heart rate will be higher, and they’re going to perceive that they’re working harder than they actually are,” said Susan Yeargin, assistant professor of athletic training in Indiana State’s College of Nursing, health, and Human Services.  A high percentage of collegiate and professional athletes begin the season dehydrated, putting their health at risk even before they begin strenuous workouts, according to researchers at Indiana State University. In fact, eighty percent of football players displayed symptoms of dehydration during pre-season physical examinations.

Confused about how much water is enough water? Chiropractors, like most health care professionals, recommend a minimum of eight, 8-ounce glasses of water daily for many patients, but for our patients who are athletes, or for individuals who are overweight or exercise or work where it’s hot, we recommend even more. There is a fairly uncomplicated way for you to be sure that you’re drinking an adequate amount of water. Your urine color is a good indicator. If it comes out a light, pale yellow, it’s an indication that you’re well-hydrated!

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