Unpacking Wellness within Medical Aid Societies
In today’s fast-paced world, the term “wellness” has become a buzzword in churches, workplaces, and communities. But what does it truly mean to be well?
Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) believes wellness is more than just the absence of illness, it’s a holistic approach to living that encompasses physical, social, emotional, and environmental well-being. It’s about making conscious choices every day to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.
As part of our commitment to your well-being, PSMAS has a dedicated wellness division, known as the Premier Lifestyle. Premier Lifestyle focuses on empowering our members to take charge of their health. In this week’s column, we’ll explore one key dimension of wellness which is physical wellness and share practical tips to help you enhance your quality of life.
Physical Wellness: Moving Toward a Healthier You
Physical wellness is about recognising the importance of physical activity, nutritious eating, and adequate sleep. These pillars form the foundation of a healthy lifestyle and can significantly impact your overall well-being. At Premier Lifestyle, we encourage our members to prioritize their physical health through our wellness programs and resources.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity is one of the best gifts you can give your body. Exercise not only strengthens your heart and muscles but also releases endorphins those “feel-good” hormones that boost your mood and energy levels. Aim for at least 30 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise, three to five times a week. This could include:
- Jogging or walking in your neighbourhood
- Skipping rope or dancing at home
- Joining a gym or fitness class
The benefits of regular exercise are undeniable:
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers
- Improved sleep quality and gut health
- Enhanced mood and mental clarity
- A longer, healthier life
Premier Lifestyle Wellness Tip 1: Join our wellness workshops and fitness challenges designed to keep you motivated and active. Check out our upcoming events for opportunities to engage with like-minded individuals.
Eat Well
As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.” A balanced diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Here are some simple dietary tips:
- Base your meals on high-fibre starchy carbohydrates.
- Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.
- Opt for fish, especially oily fish such as salmon or mackerel, at least twice a week.
- Cut down on saturated fats, sugar, and salt.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Premier Lifestyle Wellness Tip 2: Our Wellness Division offers nutrition counselling and meal planning resources to help you make healthier food choices. Reach out to us for personalised guidance by emailing premierlifestyle@psmas.co.zw.
Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is often overlooked, but it’s a cornerstone of physical wellness. Adults should aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night. Inadequate sleep can lead to:
- A weakened immune system
- Increased stress and pain levels
- Impaired performance and higher risk of accidents
Premier Lifestyle Wellness Tip 3: Explore our wellness seminars on sleep hygiene and stress management to learn how to create a restful sleep environment and establish a consistent bedtime routine. Follow us on our social media platforms to learn more about our seminars.
Take Charge of Your Wellness Journey with PSMAS
Wellness is not a destination but an ongoing journey. By adopting positive lifestyle behaviour such as regular exercise, healthy eating, quality sleep, and meaningful social interactions you can significantly improve your physical and emotional well-being.
At PSMAS, we’re committed to helping you live your best life. Our Premier Lifestyle is here to support you every step of the way, offering resources, programs, and personalized guidance to help you achieve your wellness goals.
For more tips and resources on wellness, reach out to us at premierlifestyle@psmas.co.zw or follow and like our social media pages to learn more about our wellness initiatives.
Remember, small changes can lead to big results. Start today, and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you with PSMAS!
Premier Lifestyle Wellness Tip: Participate in our community wellness events and support groups to connect with others who share your health and wellness goals. Together, we can create a supportive network that fosters growth and resilience. Our calendar of events is normally shared by our social media platforms. Please follow and like our pages to stay informed.
