What is Wellness?
The wellness industry encompasses various facets, each holding diverse meanings for different individuals. Under the broad banner of Wellness, numerous genres exist. Is it linked to spiritual growth, dietary practices, or a workout regimen? The plethora of information can often lead to conflicting advice, sparking skepticism and dismissal as mere "marketing rubbish." Despite the commercial aspect, many seek genuine wellness as an avenue to age feeling vital, alive, and well. While I can't define Wellness for you, I can share what it embodies for me.
A Lifelong Journey: Understanding Personal Wellness
Wellness, to me, is a lifelong journey, transforming as we change and age over the years. It's the pursuit of feeling as good as possible in our bodies in the most natural way. Our bodies naturally strive for optimal functioning, and wellness is our means to assist in feeling our best. However, it doesn't ignore the challenges and inherent obstacles. Each person's version of 100% differs. Expecting our bodies to mirror an athlete's physique or our youthful selves can lead to unrealistic expectations. Instead, acknowledging and equipping our bodies to function optimally at each stage is the key.
Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science: Jing, Essence, and Telomeres
Studying Chinese Medicine introduced me to the concept of Jing, encapsulating the essence or life force. Jing comprises Pre-Heaven Essence that we inherit from our parents (genetics / epigenetics) and Post-Heaven Essence cultivated during our lives. Our hereditary Qi lays the foundation, influenced by our parental health. Although we possess a fixed Pre-Heaven Essence utilized throughout life, we can enhance with strong Post Heaven Essence. Post-Heaven Essence serves as the primary fuel until its depletion, after which the Pre-Heaven Essence is consumed. We can optimize our Pre-Heaven Essence by adopting healthy practices throughout our lives.
Scientifically, this resonates with the telomeres, protective regions at the chromosome ends. Telomeres shorten with each cell division, and when they are used up, the cell dies. It is believed telomere shortening contributes to aging and disease. However, adopting healthy habits slows down telomeres depletion. Specific cells, like stem and germline cells, regenerate their telomeres through telomerase. The ancient wisdom of Jing mirrores the scientific understanding of cellular aging and rejuvenation.
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Diet, Exercise, and Spiritual Growth in Wellness
Wellness is not synonymous with a universal diet. While some thrive on specific diets, it's not universally applicable. Individuals possess unique dietary needs. General guidelines include listening to your body, favoring whole and organic foods, and avoiding highly processed items. Industrial farming, whether in animal or vegetable production, adversely affects the environment and human health.
Exercise is pivotal for wellness, yet there's no singular regimen for everyone. Dynamic movements challenge our bodies and maintain balance.
Wellness incorporates a spiritual facet unique to each individual. Spiritual growth may manifest through meditation, nature immersion, or religious practices, based on personal resonance.
Navigating the Journey: Need for Guidance and Personal Reflection
The necessity of a "coach" to define wellness is questionable. Seeking unbiased guidance for personalized concerns, like consulting a dietician for dietary advice, can be helpful. Critical discernment is crucial when selecting a health coach; credentials and impartial practice should guide your choice.
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Journal Prompt:
What Does Wellness Mean to Me?
How does wellness make me feel?
Where is my information sourced?
Does the idea of wellness induce shame or liberation?
What simple steps can I take to incorporate wellness into my life?
Citation:
1. Telomere. Genome.gov. (n.d.). https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Telomere#:~:text=A%20telomere%20is%20a%20region,the%20telomeres%20become%20slightly%20shorter.
