If you are a regular reader of this column (and I hope you are) you have probably noticed that most of our topics are based around physical health and fitness. Yes, exercising regularly and eating nutritiously are necessary for a healthy lifestyle, but there are several other areas to consider for true wellness. These areas create what is appropriately named the "Wellness Wheel."

The Wellness Wheel is a circle that is evenly broken into six categories (or spokes as in a bicycle wheel). They include: Physical, Social, Intellectual, Spiritual, Emotional, and Environmental. If certain spokes of one's wellness are under developed or ignored, the wheel (i.e. wellness) will be off balance. Wellness is found when there is a strong degree of balance among the areas. Wellness is also a very personal entity and depends on each person's needs, preferences, and experiences. As we go through the ups and downs of life, we will fall in and out of balance and certain areas will take precedence over others, of course. However, in general, it is important to look at each spoke as an important and valid component to our overall happiness and homeostasis. Let's look at each aspect of the wheel and cover what would be ideal wellness.

Physical Wellness: pertains to bodily health
• Exercising regularly
• Eating properly
• Regular doctor visits
• No substance abuse

Intellectual Wellness: pertains to internal and intellectual stimulation
• Desire to learn
• Crave new experiences
• Observing and participating in activities around you
• Up to date on current and world events
• Listening to others and questioning when necessary

Environmental Wellness: pertains to a positive perception with one's work and home environment
• Satisfied with your worth in your work
• Healthy relationships at work and home
• Awareness and experience of your natural environment
• Adaptability to change and innovation

Emotional Wellness: pertains to a secure and positive self-identity, and the ability to cope with misfortune
• Positive attitude, resilience, and ability to handle stress
• Paying attention to your own feelings that the feelings of others
• Setting realistic and attainable expectations of yourself and others
• Viewing challenges as an opportunity to grow, and not obstacles
• Independence, but aware when you need others

Social Wellness: pertains to support from family, friends and co-workers and giving support in return
• Contributing to one's community
• Comfortable interaction with various demographics
• Effective communication and friendship building skills
• Healthy balance of responsibility and relaxation

Spiritual Wellness: pertains to purpose in life
• Openness to different cultures and religions
• Having and practicing set of positive moral ethics
• Comfortable with personal time alone and self reflection
• Helping and caring for others in community
• Taking care of natural environment

This list probably seems overwhelming, and I don't think even Mother Theresa can satisfy every item at all times. . . and that is not the point. Use this "road map" as something to guide and strengthen you through your ever-changing life. Change is inevitable, how you deal with it is up to you. Now get ROLLIN'!