Understanding and Improving Personal Health - Essay Example

It is important to study the way people respond to issues relating to health in general, and how overall health conditions can be enhanced for all individuals; it is equally important to understand the value of the different domains of health for a single individual. Knowledge about one’s possible areas of concern is useful in identifying and responding to any issues as they come up, as well as to take preventive action such that one’s overall health is enhanced.
After having completed and scored the test, I found that my lowest scores were in the domains of:
• Spiritual & Psychological Health
• Fitness
The score for fitness was the lowest at 31 out of 80; while the score for Spiritual and Psychological health was the next lowest at 46 out of 80. Although these scores were not extremely low or bad, they do highlight the areas that need to be looked at to ensure that preventive steps are taken.

Fitness
The lowest score I obtained was in the area of fitness, meaning that I am not as physically fit as I am emotionally. Cognitively, I understand the value of Fitness and the benefits it affords. Behaviors that lead to physical fitness reduce the chances of cardiovascular disease, delay mortality, reduce the chances for hypertension, and enhance mood while reducing anxiety and depression (Taylor, 2006; p 82-3). Fit persons also show better endurance, improved muscle tone and strength, and lowered risk of diabetes (Taylor, 2006; p 82-3). Such lowered risk of physical illness reduces stress related to health, as well as enhancing mental health. Physically fit people often have a better self-image, and higher self-efficacy, along with lower perceived susceptibility to illness, and faster recovery (Lafreniere & Cramer, 2005; p. 183,190).

To enhance my physical fitness, I have decided to focus on some behavior that I scored very low on on the scale. For one, I plan to include aerobic activities in my daily routine. I plan to start by adding a 20-minute brisk walk to my routine 3 times a week to start with, and shall then increase intensity and time as possible. I plan to make small lifestyle changes rather than only major ones; like walking to a location when possible, taking the stairs, and doing breathing exercises and stretches during long periods of sitting. I also plan to expand my reading to include a better understanding of the means and importance of physical fitness, so that I can internalize the value of fitness.

Spiritual & Psychological Health
My score on Spiritual and Psychological health was 46 – slightly above the halfway mark; and again, though not a bad score, I appreciate the room for personal growth and development. On further observation, I realize that my score on items for spiritual health was the lowest scored. I recognize the value of healthy spiritual and Psychological attitudes in the development and maintenance of overall health. Spiritual and psychological health goes beyond the absence of a disease, and these concepts deal with achieving a state of health that encompasses the mind as well as the body (Taylor, 2006; p. 244). An individual’s thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and emotions shape the way that individual views and responds to changes in their bodies and their health.

I also plan to engage in discussions with others about these topics so that I can formulate my thoughts about spirituality and living. I often find that I am unable to adequately express my emotions, and I believe that I need to practice doing so with others I trust. If necessary, I also plan to take help so that I can practice exhibiting difficult emotions in a safe environment. Read More