The World Health Organization defines wellness as “the optimal state of health of individuals and groups. There are two focal concerns: the realization of the fullest potential of an individual physically, psychologically, socially, spiritually and economically, and the fulfilment of one’s role expectations in the family, community, place of worship, workplace and other settings.”1 ENA supports this definition of wellness and acknowledges wellness as having the following eight components:
· Physical Wellness
· Psychological Wellness
· Social Wellness
· Spiritual Wellness
· Economic Wellness
· Family Relationships
· Community Involvement
· Healthy Workplace
The key to achieving and sustaining a state of wellness is balance. This involves balancing time and energy spent on the components. An example would be implementing initiatives to create a healthy work environment at your workplace while also striving to achieve work-life balance.
Wellness can be achieved by all of us, through ways big and small. Take a deep breath, step away when you can, and strive for balance at all times. As nurses, we can provide wellness education through our discussions with patients and by being role models of wellness.
Wellness should be central to our culture, not just our vocabulary.
For more information, please contact IQSIP@ena.org.
Coming Attractions
Wellness Booth and wellness activities at the 2013 ENA Leadership Conference in Fort Lauderdale
Stop by the Wellness Booth to experience the Building Blocks of Wellness! Enjoy three interactive posters, a wellness quiz (back by popular demand), and drawings on Friday and Saturday at 1:00 pm for a wellness prize. For those early risers, we have Zumba as our physical wellness activity!
Wellness Resources
· CDC healthier workplace toolkits
· Keeping Patients Safe: Transforming the Work Environment of Nurses (IOM)
· USDA www.choosemyplate.gov
1. Smith, B.J., Cho Tang, K., Nutbeam, D. (2006). WHO health promotion glossary: new terms. Health Promotion International, 21(4); 340-5