The World Health Organization defines wellness as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
Don Ardell wrote, “Wellness is a dynamic, multidimensional state of being that emphasizes positive health, quality of life, and a sense of well-being. It’s not just the absence of disease but an active pursuit of a balanced and fulfilling life, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being.”
Wellness is multifaceted.
Dynamic and multidimensional. Wellness is not a static state but a process that evolves and changes throughout life. It encompasses multiple dimensions, including physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual, and environmental factors.
Personal responsibility. Individuals are actively involved in creating and maintaining their wellness by making conscious choices and taking ownership of their health and well-being.
Holistic approach. Wellness considers the interconnectedness of all aspects of life, recognizing that physical health is intertwined with emotional, mental, and social well-being.
Continuous pursuit. Wellness is not a one-time achievement but a lifelong journey of continuous growth and improvement.
Mindset. Ardell emphasizes the importance of a mindset that embraces positive choices, healthy habits, and a proactive approach to well-being.
Wellness is holistic.
Wellness is usually viewed in terms of physical health — nutrition, exercise, weight management, etc. — but it is so much more. Wellness is a holistic integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, fueling the body, engaging the mind, and nurturing the spirit.
Although it always includes striving for health, it’s more about living life fully and is “a lifestyle and a personalized approach to living life in a way that allows you to become the best kind of person that your potentials, circumstances, and fate will allow.” — Don Ardell
Wellness encompasses eight (8) mutually interdependent dimensions. Learning about these dimensions can help you choose how to make wellness a part of your everyday life. Wellness strategies are practical ways to start developing healthy habits that can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health.
Emotional — Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships
Environmental — Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being
Financial — Satisfaction with current and future financial situations
Intellectual — Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills
Occupational — Personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work
Physical — Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep
Social — Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system
Spiritual — Expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life
Attention must be given to all the dimensions, as neglect of any one over time will adversely affect the others, and ultimately one’s health, well-being, and quality of life. They do not, however, have to be equally balanced. We should aim, instead, to strive for a “personal harmony” that feels most authentic to us. We naturally have our own priorities, approaches, and aspirations, including our own views of what it means to live life fully.
Research
AlNujaidi, H., Al-Rayes, S., & Alumran, A. (2025). The evolution of wellness models: Implications for women’s health and well-being. International Journal of Women’s Health.
Stoewen, D. (2017). Dimensions of wellness: Change your habits, change your life. The Canadian Veterinary Journal.
Additional Information
8 dimensions of wellness | Thomas Jefferson University
Eight dimensions of wellness | University of California
Wellness vs. well-being: What’s the difference? | Take Care — The Healthy Us Collaborative
What is wellness? | Global Wellness Institute