Health is a condition of mental, physical and social well-Being where infirmity and illness are absent. There are various definitions used for such terms over the years. According to Merriam Webster, health is “the state of being clean, healthy and well able to carry out the activities of daily life.” In order to achieve health, the individual must have good nutrition, exercise and maintain a reasonable balance between work and rest. The definition of health is an ongoing philosophy that evolves with the person, culture and society.

Holistic Health, according to Merriam Webster, is the “practice of diet, health and physical fitness which include all the processes of the body, mind and spirit in a total way.” Yoga, Tai Chi and other forms of exercises may lead to physical health but do not promote overall wellness. Physical activity promotes flexibility and strength. It improves oxygen consumption and reduces stress. Stress also contributes to poor cardiovascular health.

Mental health care is “the enhancement of one’s mood by the support of exercise, drug use or both”. Those with depression may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy combined with physical activity. Those with schizophrenia may benefit from neuroleptic drugs combined with meditation. Exercise may reduce the stress that leads to anxiety and depressive illness.

Proper nutrition and regular physical activity prevent illness. Low levels of vitamins and minerals, protein, calcium and other nutrients contribute to poor mental health, whereas adequate nutrient and physical activity to improve these conditions. In most cases, those who suffer from an illness or disability that affects their physical well-being are those who are most likely to engage in physical wellness practices.

Environmental factors contribute to good health. Pollution, cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, poor air quality, noise and other environmental factors can lead to illness. People who are exposed to these conditions for extended periods have greater risks of developing cancer, heart disease and other serious illnesses. tobacco smoke, for example, contains thousands of chemicals that are toxic to humans. Long-term exposure to certain chemicals has been shown to contribute to the development of cancer.

Although environmental factors cannot be avoided, people can take precautions to avoid long-term exposure to such substances. They can also make wise decisions to spend less time in polluted areas and more time in a place with good environmental qualities. They can get away from the phones when they are using them and switch to VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) instead. They can have their computers cleaned often and keep their desktops clean so that they do not spend time picking at the bacteria growing on the back of their hands.