Identifying Your Pillars of Wellbeing

What's underpinning your wellness?

I was recently reading a social media post by Andrew Huberman, of the fantastic Huberman Labs. Andrew listed what he considered to be the 9 pillars of health, so those things require daily investment, time and attention in order for an individual to be well, and to take care of themselves.

Now Andrew originally posted a year ago about the 5 key pillars of physical health; 1) Sleep 2) Sunlight 3) Movement, 4) Nutrients 5) Relationships (all kinds, incl. w/self), so for me it was interesting to see how he has now expanded these to encompass emotional and spiritual health too.

It was such a great post, especially as he asked for thoughts and discussion about what else could be added. The responses were so interesting, whilst there were common themes naturally there were also a lot of alternative suggestions, because we are of course all 'wired' differently, especially if you are neurodivergent.

And it got me thinking about all the the things that personally are essential for my wellbeing - whether it's to enable me to feel emotionally uplifted, spiritually connected or physically stronger, because as we know mind and body, and spirit are all linked.  

The NHS say that 5 pillars of wellbeing are important; connect with others, be active, learn new skills, pay attention to the present moment, and give to others.  For me this is not enough, and after spending time in hospital the one big thing I was craving was natural light and cool fresh air.

So, in no particular order of importance, here's my list of my personal pillars of wellbeing, I have a lot!!   Does this mean that I am needy, high maintenance? No, not at all, I would say that I am highly sensitive and very aware of  how I feel and what my needs are. Ofcourse not every item on the list gets enough/equal attention every day, there are of course times where one element needs more energy and attention than another, however these are all important to my wellbeing.

Have a read and a think and see how they they compare with yours?

1. Deep sleep
2. Natural / sunlight
3. Physical movement / exercise
4. Flexible attitude
5. Emotional regulation
6. Relationships/connections - including to myself
7. Spiritual grounding
8. Nutrients
9. Water
10. Fresh air
11. Plants, trees, nature
12. Purpose 
13. Laughter, play, fun, joy
14. Peaceful moments
15. Love
16. Gratitude
17. Faith / trust
18. Warmth
19. Honesty / integrity - with/from self and others
20. A space for clear thinking, relaxation, day dreaming, self hypnosis, meditation etc 
21. Kindness to self and others

 Just looking at my Pillars of Wellbeing I can see where I need to start to make some adaptions -more exercise and more fun, maybe I can combine those?!  After all making small tweaks to your day can make a big difference to your mood! And by doing so I would hope to feel more balanced and in harmony with myself and my world.

Perhaps take some time to sit and reflect about what your needs are? And if you need any help in figuring it out or in taking that first step to making changes you know where I am!

x