Physical wellness-key for a balanced life Published Aug. 26, 2010 By Paul Ashcraft Wingman Advocate 75th Air Base Wing HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Physical wellness is integral for health and a part of the Four Pillars of Wellness. Physical wellness involves a variety of activities that support your physical well-being. Exploring physical wellness isn't just about trying to lose weight, although that may be a part of your specific Physical wellness plan. For optimum physical wellness, everyone needs to practice good health habits that include eating a healthy diet, participating in regular exercise and physical activity, performing regular hygiene routines and getting adequate rest and relaxation. Physical wellness fosters a healthier body that is able to run more efficiently, and it also helps you feel better physically as you explore your health in other wellness aspects. Physical wellness is also concerned with developing personal responsibility for your own health care, such as caring for minor illnesses and knowing when professional medical attention is needed.Developing physical wellness empowers you to be able to monitor your own vital signs and understand your body's warning signs. You'll understand and appreciate the relationship between sound nutrition and how your body performs. The physical benefits of looking good and feeling terrific most often lead to the psychological benefits of enhanced self-esteem, self-control, determination and a sense of direction. The importance of physical wellness and the effect it has on our emotional wellness has been known for years, but few people realize just how important physical wellness is to a balanced life. Diet, exercise and rest have a profound effect on how we feel emotionally. Exercise is also a great way for some people to connect to their spiritual wellness (e.g., practicing yoga, tai chi, or another mind/body activity). Exploring physical wellness together can help people build healthier relationships for social wellness. Total health reaches far beyond physical wellness, but adequate physical wellness provides a good foundation for a whole and complete life. Are you engaged in the process of physical wellness? * Do I know important health numbers, like my cholesterol, weight, blood pressure and blood sugar levels? * Do I get annual physical exams? * Do I avoid using tobacco products? * Do I get a sufficient amount of sleep? * Do I have an established exercise routine? If you answered "No" to any of the questions, it may indicate an area where you need to improve the state of your physical wellness. Steps for improving physical wellness Physical wellness is the ability to apply your knowledge, motivation, commitment, behavior, self management, attitude and skills toward achieving your personal fitness and health goals. A wise person once said, "Those who think they have no time for exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness." Physical wellness can be maintained by applying the knowledge and skills of sound nutrition, exercise and safety to everyday life. * Exercise three times a week, 20-30 minutes per session * Use the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator, and walk whenever possible * Get consistent and adequate sleep * Use seat belts and helmets, and encourage others to do so * Learn to recognize early signs of illness * Listen to your body * Practice safe sex * Eat breakfast -- it's the most important meal of the day * Eat a variety of healthy foods * Stop smoking and protect yourself against second-hand smoke * Control your meal portions and try to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day * Use sugar, salt, fat and alcohol in moderation Hill Air Force Base offers many resources through which you can begin or continue to develop your own physical wellness. The Warrior Fitness Center provides a 10,000 square-foot fully equipped fitness center, as well as personal trainer services, instructional fitness and activity classes, and courts for basketball, volleyball, racquetball, tennis and more.