INTRODUCTIONIn most disciplines of health and wellness balance is considered the key to health. Balance meaning a person is physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy. It is

essential for any health expert to develop these elements so they may understand them as well as passing the principles of

wellness onto their clients.

ASSESSMENTAssessing wellness can be done in many different ways.

Clinically there are many tests created to assess a person’s psychological health (e.g., optimism or pessimism). Standards of physical health vary depending on institutions but the absence

of physical illness or injury is generally desired. Spiritual wellness is generally described as a sense of purpose so

understanding or finding what drives or motivates a person is what should be sought.

GOAL DEVELOPMENTGoal development is important to continuously improve one’s

self. Setting goals is a good way to do this. These are my examples:

• Physical: To be active 1-2 hours a day/ 5+ days a week

• Psychological: To be more positive and not let the actions of others affect my own actions

• Spiritual: To allow myself to comprehend that I cannot control all things but it is important for me to be responsible for the things I can control.

PRACTICES FOR PERSONAL HEALTH

• Physical: Good practices include setting a schedule for being active and scheduling regular medical check-ups for preventative care.

• Psychological: Find ways to reduce stress and are helpful for relaxation. Focus on what is helpful and constructive and avoid what is counterproductive.

• Spiritual: Figure out something (e.g., job, hobby, etc.) that leaves a sense of accomplishment and fills the desire to do more.

COMMITMENT

It is important to stay focused in order to reach goals. Making dates for progress checks can help facilitate.

Periodically assessing progress is a great way to understand what a person needs to do in order to

achieve those goals, both long term and short.