Wellness is a term that can be hard to define. It’s often associated with the latest health trends, like cold plunges or drinking cider vinegar. But the key principles of wellness can be traced back to the ancient Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian cultures. They took a holistic approach to wellness that encompassed diet, exercise, hygiene, social interaction, community and environment. They strove to create harmony between body, mind and spirit, maintaining that this balance prevents illness and contributes to a long, healthy life.
While a holistic approach to wellness doesn’t promise nirvana, when you attend to all aspects of your health — mind, body, spirit and surroundings — life tends to become richer, more fulfilling and, for most people, more fun. What’s important to remember is that wellness isn’t passive. Rather, it’s an active and ongoing process of taking charge of your health and focusing on areas you want to improve.
Wellness experts generally talk about seven dimensions or areas of focus that contribute to overall well-being and optimum health. It’s a useful model for identifying your strengths and choosing which areas you want to improve to create a more balanced and fulfilling life. The idea is to take small steps toward your goals, build healthy habits and continue making progress. Ultimately, a wellness lifestyle engages your unique strengths and helps you achieve your full potential.
Wellness is multidimensional
Wellness is about more than just physical health. Each dimension of wellness contributes to your overall health and quality of life. While each dimension needs attention for you to truly flourish, there doesn’t have to be a balance among all dimensions. Instead, the goal is to find a personal harmony with the dimensions that takes advantage of your strengths, tendencies and aptitudes. You’ll likely find the things you enjoy doing benefit you in multiple ways.
1. Physical wellness
Regular exercise, a healthy diet and adequate sleep are the cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise and physical activity improve strength and balance, boost mood, help prevent heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis and some types of cancer. Exercise can help you sleep better at night and may slow brain aging by up to 10 years. At The Baldwin, we make it easy for residents to stay strong and maintain their independence with fun fitness classes, a walkable location, world-class cuisine and comfortable residences.
2. Intellectual wellness
Any time you learn a new skill or concept, attempt to understand a different viewpoint, or exercise your mind with puzzles and games, you’re building intellectual wellness. Studies show that engaging in creative pursuits and intellectually stimulating activities helps keep your mind sharp and may even prevent cognitive decline. One of the many benefits of living at The Baldwin is the number of opportunities available for lifelong learning. Lectures, art classes, bridge and book clubs, a wood shop, theater outings and more fill our calendar.
3. Spiritual wellness
The spiritual dimension recognizes the search for meaning and purpose in life. It can involve connecting to something greater than yourself through prayer or faith-based activities. Practicing meditation or mindful exercises like yoga or Tai Chi. Or it may be as simple as cultivating a sense of gratitude or spending time in nature. Practicing spiritual wellness can be comforting in challenging times, reduce stress, motivate you to be of service to others and foster a sense of community with people who share your beliefs.
4. Emotional wellness
Being emotionally well is the ability to manage your feelings and cope with life’s challenges. Self-reflection, being aware of your emotional triggers and sharing your feelings with a trusted friend or family member can help you manage your emotions and provide perspective. Practicing self-care, connecting with others and being realistic about expectations can keep you on an even keel. If feelings become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, it’s important to seek professional help.
5. Vocational wellness
Being retired doesn’t diminish the need for a sense of purpose and some form of meaningful work. We all need a reason to get out of bed in the morning and make the day count. With more time on your hands, now is a great time to do the things you’ve always wanted to do or try something new. The Baldwin offers a wide variety of classes and clubs to explore — everything from art classes and book clubs to gardening and woodworking. You’ll also discover opportunities for volunteering, mentoring or leading a lifelong learning class — all ways to use your talents and knowledge while helping others.
6. Social wellness
Humans are wired for connection in order to survive. These days we don’t have to worry about being attacked by a lion on the savannah, but strong social bonds are essential for your health. According to a 2023 Surgeon General’s report, social isolation and loneliness are as deadly as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Evidence also links social isolation with accelerated cognitive decline. On the other hand, positive social relationships improve health, increase longevity, provide support and foster a sense of belonging. The Baldwin offers a wide variety of opportunities to connect with others through social events, meals, happy hours, interest groups, exercise classes and more.
7. Environmental wellness
Environmental wellness is about valuing the relationship between yourself, your community and the environment. An environment that makes you feel safe, comfortable and connected with your surroundings positively affects your health and well-being. The Baldwin is a good example. Easy access to amenities and common spaces — either from street entrances or through pedestrian bridges that connect the buildings — encourage interaction. A town square-like area that includes a water feature, benches and green space provides another way to enjoy time in nature and connect with others. Biophilic features, such as floor-to-ceiling windows and a living wall, bring the outdoors in, help connect residents with our natural surroundings and enhance well-being.
It’s never too late to get started.
We all have a general sense of what’s good for us and how we can be better. The good news is, now may be the best time to get started, especially if you’re retired. You know yourself better and likely have more time to focus on your goals.
At The Baldwin, we make it easier to reach your goals with a wealth of programs and resources that support all dimensions of wellness. It’s a holistic, self-directed approach that empowers you to pursue your highest potential — your APEX. By taking small steps, building healthy habits and continuing to make progress, you might surprise yourself with what you’re able to do. So why not get started today? It’s never too late to become a healthier, happier, better you.
To learn more about APEX, The Baldwin’s holistic approach to wellness, visit the Fitness and Wellness page on this website. To speak with a member of our team or to schedule a personal tour, call 603.699.0100 or use our contact form.