Webster’s Dictionary defines wellness as “the quality or state of being healthy”, while Halbert Dunn (known as the father of the wellness movement) describes this as the presence of a positive purpose in life; satisfying work and play; joyful relationships; a healthy body and living environment; and happiness. Wellness is multidimensional and often illustrated by a wheel with multiple components that include — but are not limited to — spiritual, physical, emotional, social, occupational, and financial.
But how can we strive towards wellness when we are living through a pandemic? Here are ways I’ve found to be beneficial.

Choose Spiritual Wellness as a Foundation
The wellness attributes are interwoven, but I believe the spiritual component is the pillar. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is John 10:10b, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (NIV) This promise from God gives me a sense of purpose and meaning and helps to shape my values and principles. It is the springboard by which we can approach the many areas of wellness, including our health. Here are some practical tips we can integrate to support the spiritual as we sojourn through this unique season of our lives.

Opt for Healthy Eating
Overeating can be a common habit at mealtime. Here is a great way to gauge your intake. Use a 9-inch plate, fill half with non-starchy vegetables like carrots or broccoli, one quarter with protein such as chicken, and the remaining quarter with a carbohydrate. You can
estimate a cup of starch with your clenched fist. Limit sodas and juices. If you fancy something sweet, cut back on your main dish. If you are trying to lose a pound a week, calculate your calories, and reduce your daily intake by 500.

Increase Your Physical Activity
This is helpful in alleviating stress and can engender social interactions. I often talk on the phone with family and friends while walking. Try and do something that you will enjoy, and consider an additional motivator like listening to music, meditating, or praying while exercising. You can climb the stairs instead of riding the elevator, park farther away from your destination, or disembark a stop before your destination if using mass transit. Aim to exercise at least 150 minutes a week, but check with your physician before starting exercise if you have a health condition.

Get Ample, Restful Sleep
Try and aim for seven hours of sleep a day. It’s best to avoid exercising or eating late in the evening. To ensure restful sleep, it’s good to refrain from evening caffeinated beverages, electronics, and television before going to bed. My wife always tells me to avoid watching the news before going to bed; it is good advice, particularly because of the disturbing news of late.

Seek Medical Care
I strongly recommend having your own primary care physician who will get to know you and work with you. Schedule preventive and chronic care visits if you have health conditions.

Seek Medical Information
Especially during this pandemic, obtain credible medical information from a reliable source like the CDC or your state/ municipality health department.

Photo by Joel Muniz on Unsplash

Strategies to Help Cope with Stress

It’s essential to know your body. Physical signs that might indicate that you are under stress include the shaking (twitching) of extremities, pacing up and down, and extreme emotional/mood changes, to name a few.

It’s a great idea to develop coping strategies that may include prayer, listening to worship music, and doing volunteer service. Doing good for others can be a great way to alleviate stress and shift your focus on positive actions. Share your concerns with loved ones and those whom you trust. Consider a Christian counselor to help navigate serious concerns. It’s also important to avoid social isolation, so try and stay connected with friends and family. Consider gainful physical activity.

Practice deep breathing exercises. And, if you’re not already participating in consistent biblical teaching and fellowship, explore, seek, and pray about finding a church teaching Bible-centered doctrine in your local community.

Some Helpful Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.cdc.gov
New Jersey Department of Health
https://www.nj.gov/health/
New York City Department of Health
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/index.page?