Page 34 - NAMAH-Oct-2021

Namah Vol. 29, Issue 3, 15th October 2021

pandemic is an example of an imbalance in What might be everyday examples of well-
the individual and collective state of well- being?
being. It is time then that we understand
well-being to mainstream it. We can all relate to the presence of warmth all
over the body, a lightness of feeling, a good
Defining well-being appetite and digestion, sound and restful
sleep, clarity and perfect coordination of the
It is indeed difficult to objectively define well- mind and ability of the body for physical
being. This is because firstly it is a subjective exertion, vitality and energy in the physical,
state, an experience. It provides an indication mental, vital self.
of the overall sense of happiness, cheerfulness,
satisfaction, fulfilment and equilibrium in The Mother has very simply captured the
the inner being and outer becoming. It is a essence of well-being as, “It’s not money
positive concept that enables the expansion that makes a man happy, but rather an inner
of personal capacity and helps to optimally balance of energy, good health and good
leverage resources. feelings (1).”

Secondly, the experience of well-being cannot We all have experienced such states periodically.
be broken down into different elements All of us have the ability to experience and be
of mental, vital, physical or spiritual. It in a state of well-being. The struggle is in
is a sum total of all these that provide a holding this state within constantly. Due
complete, integral experience. Fixing one or to the stresses and anxieties in our life-
a few elements will not provide a wholesome situations, we experience an imbalance.
experience. Therefore, it requires a whole And we are continuously striving for
and full engagement. different ways to restore our well-being.

Thirdly, its absence is more acutely felt while Underpinnings of well-being
its presence is taken for granted. Not being
in a state of well-being is not necessarily Nature
indicative of a physical, vital, mental or This deals with the ‘inner’ balance and
spiritual infirmity but implies a (dis) ease in equilibrium. The manifestation is in the ‘outer’
the integral health that blocks the ease-ness workings. The absence calls for certain actions
and flow in everyday engagements. (working) towards restoration, renewal.

What then entails well-being? Process of restoration and renewal
It requires a holistic and integral approach
It includes having good overall health, high life- (physical, mental, vital and spiritual). The
satisfaction, a sense of meaning or purpose work involves aligning from inside to outside.
and ability to manage stressful situations. It This means it is centred in the environment
provides an overall sense of contentment, within and not necessarily driven by the
harmony, balance and fulfilment between external environment.
the inner and outer being.

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