What is wellness? It isn't simply the absence of illness. A better definition of wellness is provided by the World Health Organization: "A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." But wellness doesn't just happen to us. Wellness is an active process. It means becoming aware of, and making choices toward, a healthy and fulfilling life. Wellness is first and foremost a decision to assume responsibility for the quality of your life. In doing so, you'll reduce your medical costs, improve your productivity, increase your energy, and enhance virtually every aspect of your life.


Wellness is the bottom line in preventing heart disease. The decisions you make, like choosing whether or not to smoke or exercise, directly impact the health of your heart. The most important issues in cardiovascular wellness are:

• Smoking
• Healthy diet
• Exercise
• Healthy weight
• Blood pressure
• Disease management
• Stress management
• Social support
• Toxins
• Hygiene
• Addictions

More on this topic

Understanding Wellness (VIDEO)
What Is Wellness?
Quit Smoking
Smoking & Your Arteries
Eat Healthy
Foods to Avoid
Foods to Enjoy
Fiber Helps Lower Cholesterol
Good Fats: Omegas 3 & 6
The Daily Nutrition You Need
Portion Control
Daily Exercise
Aerobic Exercise
Speed Up Your Metabolism
Benefits of Exercise
Lose Weight
Measuring Fat

Related Health Centers:

The 9 Visual Rules of Wellness, Wellness and Prevention Part I, Wellness and Prevention Part II, Reverse Aging