As you might have noticed, we recognize that wellness encompasses more than just physical wellness. So, although we strive to support your physical wellness with fitness classes, programs and special events, by recommending virtual fitness and health resources, and by making a wide range of recreational activities available on campus, we also strive to foster other dimensions that contribute to your well-being.

Here are links to some of our other wellness opportunities and resources:

• Eagle Well Peer Educators
• Employee Wellness Opportunities
• Emotional Wellness Resources
• Nursing Mother's Room
• Student Wellness Opportunities

A Closer Look at Wellness

When talking and thinking about wellness, it helps to have a common understanding of what we mean by "wellness," as well as the terms we use to define it, such as "aware," "choice" and "success." We offer you the following definitions as starting points for establishing that common understanding.

Well·ness \wel′-nəs\ n.

The state of being in good health; an interactive process of becoming aware of and practicing healthy habits and choices to generate positive energy, balance and success in your life.

A·ware \ə-wâr′\ n.

A state of knowing or realizing something, usually by being attentive and well-informed.
Elaboration: Being aware involves continuously seeking more information about yourself, others, issues, ideas, cause-and-effect relationships and other aspects of life. It may also entail challenging your assumptions.

Choice \CHois\ n.

The act of selecting or making a decision among two or more possible options; the possibilities or options themselves.
Elaboration: To make healthy choices involves considering a variety of options and selecting those that appear to be in your best interest and do no harm.

Success \sUHk-sEs′\ n.

The achievement of your aim(s) or goal(s).
Elaboration: Whether you have actually accomplished the particular goal you set out to accomplish is not the only measure of success. Some people equate putting forth maximum effort toward the achievement of a goal as success; others measure success by how close they have come to achieving a goal; still others measure success by how well they have fulfilled a constellation of important goals or maintained a commitment to their values. In most situations, your measure of success is up to you to determine.

Dimensions of Wellness

Element Characterized By . . .	Symbol	Symbol Explained	Manifestations
Emotional Wellness The awareness and acceptance of your feelings and emotions. Emotional Wellness resources on campus, online & within the community.	Image	Heart The heart is traditionally held to be the source of emotions (vs. the mind/brain, which is typically associated with rational thought).	Participating in relationships with peers and/or family Balancing work and family responsibilities Laughing and crying Getting sound and adequate sleep Managing stress successfully through exercise and/or other healthful activities
Environmental Wellness The recognition that there is an interdependence between human beings, collectively and individually, and the natural world.	Image	Tree This easy-to-identify symbol represents the natural realm.	Limiting consumption of natural resources, such as water and fuel Reusing and recycling materials Spending time in nature Appreciating and showing respect for clean air, water, outdoor spaces and living things Practicing a leave-no-trace policy
Intellectual Wellness An openness to new concepts, ideas and information.	Image	Light Bulb This symbol represents fresh thinking, innovation and creativity.	Reading and learning for fun Participating in classes and/or organizations Being open to people and ideas of all cultures Engaging in travel and/or hobbies Exhibiting curiosity
Occupational Wellness Enjoying one’s chosen career, volunteer activities and/or other activities that contribute to society.	Image	Gear with Cogs This toothed machine part represents a unit of labor or effort.	Engaging in a satisfying career, profession and/or volunteer activities Observing workplace safety Maintaining a positive, open-minded and respectful attitude Continuing to improve performance via classes and/or professional development
Physical Wellness Having and maintaining a healthy body and mind by regularly getting good nutrition, exercise and rest and by avoiding and/or eliminating harmful habits.	Image	Person in a Circle This person with arms outstretched inside a circle represents the human body — one’s physical being.	Eating a healthy diet with adequate water Engaging in regular physical exercise and stretching Getting sound and adequate sleep Maintaining good personal hygiene Getting regular medical and dental exams Walking and/or cycling as opposed to driving when possible Staying apprised of blood pressure and cholesterol and blood sugar levels
Social Wellness Performing social roles comfortably, effectively and without causing harm to others.	Image	Three People with Linked Hands This symbolizes harmony, friendship and networking.	Establishing and maintaining friendships Showing awareness of and respect for people who are culturally or physically different from you Engaging in social and community events and activities Participating in group fitness classes or other group activities
Spiritual Wellness Having a sense of meaning and purpose in one’s life.	Image	Sun The sun has a variety of meanings in religion and also represents the source of growth and vitality in the universe and the beginning and end of each day.	Meditating and/or praying Having a meaningful religious affiliation and/or practice Providing service to others Living with moral integrity and respect for others Drawing strength, peace and/or rejuvenation from time spent in nature

Adapted from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln website