While being healthy has always been promoted in society, in recent years, the shift towards wellness has been increasing. While the two concepts seem similar, there are some subtle differences between the two. 

Health refers to the state of wellbeing in physical, mental and social terms, rather than just the absence of disease.  Wellness, however, encompasses the ability of a person to experience personal growth in emotional, physical, psychological, spiritual, social and intellectual terms. It can be thought of as thriving rather than just surviving. 

While you most certainly will notice when your health is failing, it can be harder to be aware that you’ve lost a little wellness. When it comes to physical wellness, this may mean that you have no pain, yet still feel a little stiff, or simply can’t do as much as you would like to. 

While in many ways, health can be measured objectively, wellness is a little more subjective. It is determined by your own goals and aspirations. If you are able to participate in activities you love, this can be vital to emotional and social wellness, not only physical health. 

How can physiotherapy help improve wellness?

Your physiotherapist is able to work with you to set goals that are meaningful to you and develop a plan that makes these goals achievable.

Your physiotherapist can also help you to identify factors that may be holding you back from reaching these goals. In some cases, this could be a lack of balance, which reduces confidence in trying something new. Alternatively, an old injury that hasn’t been fully rehabilitated may mean that you are subconsciously avoiding activity.

Little by little, you too can work towards the ultimate goal of total wellness and health. Speak to your physiotherapist about how you can improve your health and wellness.