Health
Also known as vitality, wellbeing, wellness
The need for physical and mental wellbeing. A state where the body and mind function well and support engagement with life.
When met or unmet
When met
- Body functioning well
- Vitality and wellness
- Physical capability
When unmet
- Illness or weakness
- Body not cooperating
- Health limiting life
Common expressions
I just want to be healthy My health is everything I feel so unwell
Strategies
- Regular movement and exercise
- Adequate sleep and rest
- Nourishing food and hydration
- Attending to mental health through connection, meaning, and care
Recognition questions
- → Is my body functioning well?
- → Do I have the energy and vitality I need?
- → Am I neglecting my physical or mental health?
Somatic markers
When met
- Vitality and energy available
- Body feeling capable and well
- Clarity of mind
When unmet
- Fatigue, illness, or malaise
- Body demanding attention through symptoms
- Reduced capacity for life
Shadow side
- Obsession with health that becomes unhealthy
- Using health as a measure of moral worth
- Anxiety about health that undermines it
Cultural considerations
Health concepts vary: physical, mental, spiritual, relational, environmental. Holistic vs biomedical models. Prevention vs treatment emphasis.
Related needs
Often confused with
Self-care
Self-care is the practice of attending to needs; health is the state of wellbeing that may result.