Matters Of The Heart And Mind
Seniors today are keeping good physical shape and staying in the pink of health. Modern medicines, superfoods and an active lifestyle have helped to ensure a better quality of life. But wellness, when embraced in all its totality, must also include having that positive outlook on life. This includes acknowledging self-acceptance, exercising self-control, enjoying self-confidence and finding purpose and meaning in life.
Emotional Wellness
An emotionally well person is able to express his/her emotions freely and possesses the ability to cope effectively with stress. Such a person will be able to go through life with a positive attitude and hence is better able to enjoy life to its fullest.
A good social support network like friends who can share your joy or come to you in times of need can provide that stabilizing effect that reinforces your emotional wellness. Pursuing activities that you enjoy like reading, gardening and baking, for example, are also good for your emotional wellness.
There are ways to improve emotional wellness such as the following:
- Knowing and setting your priorities
When you know what matters most in your life, you can begin to set your priorities accordingly. Perhaps you can start by making a list of things to do in your lifetime. It is a great morale booster too when you can successfully tick off each item on the list as your personal accomplishments. - Maintaining a positive attitude
Remember, the cup is half full or half empty depends much on your positive or negative perspective on life. A healthy disposition augurs well for a healthy body and mind, and gets manifested through a more radiant and attractive you. So take the optimistic approach to life rather than the pessimistic. - Having a good laugh (at yourself) frequently
If your self-esteem is high, you will be able to laugh at yourself instead of fretting all the time. So stop being pre-occupied by negative comments and gossip. Unhealthy thoughts that fester can back fire triggering anxiety and stress. - Being aware of your thoughts and feelings
Don't deny them but accept them and express them in appropriate ways. An emotionally well person is able to control his/her feelings, build relationships and handle setbacks. - Taking up a new hobby
Don't be bogged down by responsibilities. Make time for yourself to pursue something you enjoy like a new hobby. There are a myriad of avenues available for you to discover new things to learn - join a book or travel club, volunteer as a doyen, learn a new language or take up gardening. - Reducing stress and worries
Stop bearing the weight of worries and stresses all on your own. Share them with family and friends who are able and most willing to help.
Spiritual Wellness
Another dimension to ageing well mentally is spiritual wellness. A person who is spiritually well appreciates the depth and expanse of life and natural forces in the universe, has a personal value system and acts in ways that are consistent with that value system. He or she willingly seeks to bring meaning and purpose in human existence and is open to diverse cultural beliefs.
The degree of one's spiritual well-being can be seen in the health of each of the following three areas:
- Relationships
Caring and acting for the welfare of others and the environment, and practice forgiveness and compassion in life. - Personal Values
Have a clear sense of right and wrong, and act accordingly. - Purpose in Life
Make time for relaxation daily and learn to appreciate, enjoy and be grateful for the little pleasures in life.
Dedicating time to explore and develop these aspects of spirituality is essential to one's well-being.
