The topic of veterinary wellness has received increasing attention over the last decade. Whether prompted by societal concern for health and wellness in general, or the growing awareness of the troubling incidence of suicide in the profession (1), veterinary wellness is in the spotlight across Canada, and worldwide. We could ask, “Is this because veterinarians’ health is worse than it used to be? Are the challenges of practice becoming overwhelming?” According to Dr. Jean Wallace (2) in a recent study identifying the stressful parts of veterinarians’ work and how it relates to their wellness, “more and more veterinarians are suffering from compassion fatigue, burnout, and suicidal behaviours.”In understanding the difference between health and wellness, in short, health is a state of being, whereas wellness is the state of living a healthy lifestyle (3). Health refers to physical, mental, and social well-being; wellness aims to enhance well-being.
Living a healthy lifestyle such as eating healthy, exercising, avoiding junk will not only extend your life, rejuvenate your skin and hair but also improve your overall well-being. It will help you to feel better physically and mentally.
However, healthy habits are hard to develop and require changing of a mindset. But a strong willpower and target goal will help you to follow a healthy lifestyle. Most of us are suffering from certain health issues. The most common health issues are overweight, mood swings, diseases, low stamina, and dull appearance. Healthy living plays an important role in overcoming all of these issues.
Health and Wellness: 5 importance of leading a healthy lifestyle
Below points will help you to understand the importance of health and wellness in an individual’s life:
1. Weight Management: Regular exercises and healthy eating will help you to avoid excess weight gain. Being physically active is necessary to reach your weight loss targets, boost immunity system and increase your energy level.
You should do at least 150 minutes exercise every week to stay active and fit. Along with exercise, take a balanced or calorie managed diet. Right balance of carbs, fats and proteins boosts your energy level and keeps it going through your day.
2. Improve Mood: A healthy lifestyle will lead a relaxed mind and make you energetic throughout the day. Exercise and healthy eating also help you to improve your mood and boost your self-confidence. It will also help you to overcome your stress.
3. Prevent Diseases: Following a healthy lifestyle will help you to prevent certain diseases such as heart diseases, blood pressure, depression, body pain etc. Always start your day with a healthy breakfast. Regular exercise and balanced diet will not only increase your metabolic rate but also ultimately improved health condition.
4. Boost Energy: An unhealthy eating will cause a lethargic feeling. On the other hand, a balanced healthy diet will give fuel to your body to run all functions. A healthy diet includes whole grains, lean meats, low-fat dairy product, fruits and vegetables. A good combination of exercise and balanced diet gives you a good sleep and help you start a fresh and energetic day.
5. Improves longevity: The other benefits of adopting a healthy lifestyle in daily routine will give you longer life, healthier and younger skin, nourished hairs, and overall wellbeing.
