Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being—not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This definition, originally provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasizes that being healthy isn't just about not being sick—it's about thriving in multiple aspects of life.
Here’s a breakdown of what health includes:
1. Physical health – The proper functioning of the body and its systems. It includes things like nutrition, exercise, sleep, immunity, and absence of illness or injury.
2. Mental health – Emotional, psychological, and cognitive well-being. It affects how we think, feel, handle stress, and make choices.
3. Social health – The ability to form satisfying interpersonal relationships and adapt to social situations.
4. Spiritual health (optional) – For some, this includes a sense of purpose, values, or connection to something greater