Wellness

Unlike a grade, well-being isn’t a goal that, once attained, remains fixed or permanent. It’s a dynamic state that largely depends on being self-aware and practicing sound decisions that foster good health, happiness, peace of mind and balance. It’s also a product of living a balanced life — that is, living in a way that integrates, develops and maintains the many dimensions of wellness: emotional, environmental, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual.

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wellness graphic

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Wellness Opportunities and Resources

As you might have noticed, we recognize that wellness encompasses more than just physical wellness. So, although we strive to support your physical wellness with fitness classes, programs and special events, by recommending virtual fitness and health resources, and by making a wide range of recreational activities available on campus, we also strive to foster other dimensions that contribute to your well-being.

Here are links to some of our other wellness opportunities and resources:

A Closer Look at Wellness

When talking and thinking about wellness, it helps to have a common understanding of what we mean by "wellness," as well as the terms we use to define it, such as "aware," "choice" and "success." We offer you the following definitions as starting points for establishing that common understanding.

Well·ness \wel′-nəs\ n.

The state of being in good health; an interactive process of becoming aware of and practicing healthy habits and choices to generate positive energy, balance and success in your life.

A·ware \ə-wâr′\ n.

A state of knowing or realizing something, usually by being attentive and well-informed.
Elaboration: Being aware involves continuously seeking more information about yourself, others, issues, ideas, cause-and-effect relationships and other aspects of life. It may also entail challenging your assumptions. 

Choice \CHois\ n.

The act of selecting or making a decision among two or more possible options; the possibilities or options themselves.
Elaboration: To make healthy choices involves considering a variety of options and selecting those that appear to be in your best interest and do no harm.

Success \sUHk-sEs′\ n.

The achievement of your aim(s) or goal(s).
Elaboration: Whether you have actually accomplished the particular goal you set out to accomplish is not the only measure of success. Some people equate putting forth maximum effort toward the achievement of a goal as success; others measure success by how close they have come to achieving a goal; still others measure success by how well they have fulfilled a constellation of important goals or maintained a commitment to their values. In most situations, your measure of success is up to you to determine.

Dimensions of Wellness
Element
Characterized By . . .
Symbol Symbol Explained Manifestations

Emotional Wellness

The awareness and acceptance of your feelings and emotions.

Emotional Wellness resources on campus, online & within the community.

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emotional wellness
Heart

The heart is traditionally held to be the source of emotions (vs. the mind/brain, which is typically associated with rational thought).
Participating in relationships with peers and/or family

Balancing work and family responsibilities

Laughing and crying

Getting sound and adequate sleep

Managing stress successfully through exercise and/or other healthful activities
Environmental Wellness

The recognition that there is an interdependence between human beings, collectively and individually, and the natural world.
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environmental wellness
Tree

This easy-to-identify symbol represents the natural realm.
Limiting consumption of natural resources, such as water and fuel

Reusing and recycling materials

Spending time in nature

Appreciating and showing respect for clean air, water, outdoor spaces and living things

Practicing a leave-no-trace policy
Intellectual Wellness

An openness to new concepts, ideas and information.
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intellectual wellness
Light Bulb

This symbol represents fresh thinking, innovation and creativity.
Reading and learning for fun

Participating in classes and/or organizations

Being open to people and ideas of all cultures

Engaging in travel and/or hobbies

Exhibiting curiosity
Occupational Wellness

Enjoying one’s chosen career, volunteer activities and/or other activities that contribute to society.
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occupational wellness
Gear with Cogs

This toothed machine part represents a unit of labor or effort.
Engaging in a satisfying career, profession and/or volunteer activities

Observing workplace safety

Maintaining a positive, open-minded and respectful attitude

Continuing to improve performance via classes and/or professional development
Physical Wellness

Having and maintaining a healthy body and mind by regularly getting good nutrition, exercise and rest and by avoiding and/or eliminating harmful habits.
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physical wellness
Person in a Circle

This person with arms outstretched inside a circle represents the human body — one’s physical being.
Eating a healthy diet with adequate water

Engaging in regular physical exercise and stretching

Getting sound and adequate sleep

Maintaining good personal hygiene

Getting regular medical and dental exams

Walking and/or cycling as opposed to driving when possible

Staying apprised of blood pressure and cholesterol and blood sugar levels
Social Wellness

Performing social roles comfortably, effectively and without causing harm to others.
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social wellness
Three People with Linked Hands

This symbolizes harmony, friendship and networking.
Establishing and maintaining friendships

Showing awareness of and respect for people who are culturally or physically different from you

Engaging in social and community events and activities

Participating in group fitness classes or other group activities
Spiritual Wellness

Having a sense of meaning and purpose in one’s life.
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spiritual wellness
Sun

The sun has a variety of meanings in religion and also represents the source of growth and vitality in the universe and the beginning and end of each day.
Meditating and/or praying

Having a meaningful religious affiliation and/or practice

Providing service to others

Living with moral integrity and respect for others

Drawing strength, peace and/or rejuvenation from time spent in nature


Adapted from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln website