University of Southern Indiana

Student Wellness

Student Wellness develops, implements, and coordinates health and wellness education and activities for the University community. The office is located in the Recreation, Fitness & Wellness Center. For more information, contact Christine Tolis Johnston or call 812/461-5483.

7 Dimensions of Wellness

Wellness
Wellness is a continuous process of self enhancement which involves balancing the many aspects or dimensions of a person's life. These dimensions are: physical, intellectual, emotional, social, environmental, spiritual, and occupational.

Wellness is a way of life; a process; an integration of body, mind, and spirit; a loving acceptance of self. Its outcome is helping you make informed choices about things that affect your well-being.

1. Physical
The physical dimension of wellness includes appropriate exercise and proper nutrition in addition to making responsible decisions about sex, alcohol, and drug use. Improving your physical wellness can positively affect other areas. Participating in physical activities can improve your well-being, alleviate stress, increase intellectual awareness, improve sleep, and give your more energy.

2. Intellectual
Intellectual well-being involves ongoing learning and the ability to open our minds to new ideas and experiences. This can include attending formal events like classes and seminars, as well as reading, learning a new sport or language, or picking up a new hobby. Sharing ideas with people from different backgrounds helps us advance in all aspects of life.

3. Emotional
Emotional wellness is defined as an awareness and acceptance of a wide range of feelings in yourself and others. An emotionally well person understands their own limitations and knows how and when to seek support to cope with the challenges life can bring. An emotionally well person also has the ability to form satisfying relationships with others.

4. Social
Social wellness is the ability to connect with other people in our world. The social dimension is expressed through activities such as developing and maintaining friendships and family relationships, volunteer work, joining organizations, and attending community events.

5. Environmental
Environmental wellness is the process of recognizing your responsibility for your environment, which ranges from your immediate surroundings to the world around you. Actions to improve your environment can include being aware of and doing what you can to reduce violence in society, as well as daily actions like recycling, installing smoke detectors in your home, and wearing a seatbelt.

6. Spiritual
Spiritual wellness is a process of looking within yourself and exploring your values and beliefs to establish peace and harmony in your lives. Inner peace is important in dealing with life changes and connecting with others and the environment.

7. Occupational
Occupational wellness is the ability to get personal fulfillment from our jobs while maintaining balance in our lives. It is the ability to integrate your skills, interests, and values in order to heighten job satisfaction. A well work environment is one that is safe, supportive, and encourages personal growth.

8600 University Boulevard - Evansville, IN 47712-3596 - 812/464-8600