An Overview of the Wellbeing Model
Wellbeing is a state of balance or alignment in body , mind, and spirit. In this state, we feel content; connected to purpose, people, and community; peaceful and energized; resilient and safe. In short, we are flourishing.
Our personal wellbeing - as well as the wellbeing of our families, the organizations in which we work, and the communities in which we live - is influenced by many factors illustrated in the Wellbeing Model. We encourage you to consider ways to increase your capacity and expand your potential in each of these areas.
Advancing the health and wellbeing of people , organizations, and communities is core to the mission of the University of Minnesota’s Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing.
Explore the different components of the Wellbeing Model below.
Environment
An environment with clean air and water is important to wellbeing. There is also strong evidence that “nature heals.” Being in nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it also contributes to your physical wellbeing.
Community
Community includes the resources and assets provided by housing, transportation, schools, and parks as well as our social connections and networks. Each of us has a bigger impact on others than we can see.
Relationships
Relationships provide support that can act as a buffer against the negative effects of stress, leading to a longer and healthier life. Loneliness and isolation are risk factors for disease that are comparable in impact to obesity and hypertension. If our lives are devoid of positive relationships, it also detracts from joy, meaning, and ultimately, wellbeing.
Security
Security means feeling safe, and is critical to overall wellbeing. Fear can immobilize and incapacitate us. Fear also diminishes joy and creativity, and makes human flourishing impossible.
Health
Health is affected by the food we eat, how often we exercise, how we manage our stress, and how much we sleep, as well as social, environmental, and genetic influences. Lifestyle choices are responsible for nearly 90% of health outcomes.
Purpose
Purpose guides life decisions, influences behavior, shapes goals, offers a sense of direction, and creates meaning. Purpose is directly related to both health and happiness, and it has a major impact on our wellbeing.