The Eight Dimensions of Wellness
The 8 dimensions of wellness are (in no particular order):
The concept of 8 dimensions of wellness was first introduced in the early 1990s by Dr Margaret (Peggy) Swarbrick research Professor, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology at Rutgers.
Dr. Swarbrick’s Wellness model was inspired by Dr. Jerry Johnson’s academic paper “Wellness and Occupational Therapy” published in 1986.
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Dr. Swarbrick's Wellness Model
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Since its inception, Dr Peggy Swarbrick’s Wellness model has been gaining worldwide popularity and has been adopted by organisations all over the world that aim to promote wellbeing.
Harvard's Center for Wellness and Health Promotion's Wellbeing Framework also consists of 8 dimensions.
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Wellbeing Framework, David S. Rosenthal Center for Wellness and Health promotion, Harvard University Health Services
The centre defines Wellbeing as a dynamic and fluid continuum influenced by many interconnected dimensions. The challenge is to find the balance that works for us throughout the different stages of our lives, and live a satisfying, happy and fulfilling life. We should approach our wellbeing in a holistic way, be consciously aware of the different dimensions of wellbeing, and make good choices with lifestyles and what we focus our time and energy on.
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Some believe that a 9th dimension - Cultural - should be added.
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Sources:
https://alcoholstudies.rutgers.edu/mapping-mental-health-dr-swarbrick-the-eight-wellness-dimensions/
https://alcoholstudies.rutgers.edu/people/leadership/margaret-peggy-swarbrick-phd-faota/
https://uwaterloo.ca/engineering-wellness-program/nine-dimensions-wellness
