Shirley Strembitsky | Wellness Committee Peggy Strass , RN , BScN | Workplace Wellness Liaison , ASEBP

Wellness has many components — it is broad , dynamic , and complex . When it comes to healthy aging , keeping a perfect balance in life at all times can be tricky ; however , aiming to improve an overall balance in life is possible .

Balance is vital in our daily lives for harmonious and healthy living as well as for our overall well-being .

According to Alberta Health Services ( AHS ), setting a goal can help make positive changes and bring balance to our lives . Many factors play an important role in achieving this goal , the four main factors being healthy eating , mental wellness , physical activity , and sleep .

Healthy Eating Given that nutrition is essential to provide fuel for the body , being mindful of healthy eating is very important . The food choices that one makes can either work toward or against one ’ s health . Therefore , healthy food choices are essential to maintain a well-balanced diet . Canada ’ s Food Guide is a great resource to assist in choosing from a variety of foods and in determining correct portion sizes .

AHS also states that healthy eating is beneficial to our overall health , lowering the risk of chronic diseases . Following Canada ’ s Food Guide helps to reduce the risk of heart disease , certain types of cancer , osteoporosis , type 2 diabetes , and other chronic illnesses .

Another important factor regarding eating practice to consider is our environment . Do we eat alone or with other people ? Research shows that eating with others also plays a role in our overall social well-being .

There are benefits to eating with intention and being mindful to savour the food , the texture , and the aroma . Taking time to enjoy conversation with others while eating and taking time to listen , laugh , and learn benefits our healthy balance .

In order to gain control over emotional eating , a strategy to try is to eat at the table with family or friends and to eat more slowly , savouring every bite while taking in the colour and the arrangement of the food on the plate .

Mental Wellness According to AHS , mental wellness is the ability to feel good and to function well on a day-to-day basis . Positive mental health is an important step in managing stress and feeling balanced .

How do we manage our mental wellness ? One way is to cultivate the practice of gratitude by allowing oneself to focus on what one is thankful for , keeping a journal of happy events , and focusing on positive

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