Four corners of health
The Crucial Foundation for Progress
The Four Corners of Health encapsulate physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, creating a balanced and holistic approach to health. This framework ensures individuals are not in conflict with themselves, unlocking their full potential and agency. By harmonizing these aspects, people can progress more effectively in their personal growth and contribute positively to collective well-being. This balanced approach underscores the importance of nurturing each aspect to achieve a fully integrated and healthy life.
1. Physical Health
The condition of the body, encompassing physical fitness, nutrition, and overall bodily well-being. It involves the absence of disease, agency over one’s body, the ability to perform daily tasks without physical restraint, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that supports the body’s physical needs to an optimal standard.
- Nutrition and Diet
- Exercise and Fitness
- Hormonal Balance
- Sleep and Rest
- Physical Wellness Practices
- Preventative Care
- Substance Avoidance
2. Mental Health
The state of psychological and emotional well-being where an individual can utilise their cognitive and emotional capabilities, manage the normal stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their community. It includes one’s ability to process information, make decisions, and handle emotions.
- Cognitive Functions
- Stress Management
- Mental Wellness Practices
- Emotional Regulation Psychological
- Resilience
3. Emotional Health
The capacity to express and manage feelings appropriately, including the ability to establish and maintain fulfilling relationships, deal with adversity, and feel and show empathy for others. It’s about being aware of and accepting our feelings, rather than denying them.
- Self-awareness
- Empathy
- Relationship Management
- Emotional Expression
- Emotional Processing
4. Spiritual Health
A sense of connection to something bigger than oneself, which might involve a search for meaning in life. It is often associated with religion, but also encompasses personal growth, the appreciation for life, and a sense of peace and contentment.
- Meaning and Purpose
- Connection
- Values and Beliefs
- Peace and Stillness
- Compassion and Service
Harmony in health
Health is not a collection of isolated silos but a cohesive ecosystem, where physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being are intrinsically linked. This interconnectedness means enhancing one aspect can positively impact the others, amplifying overall health.
Acknowledging this fact shifts our approach to well-being, recognising that a holistic balance is essential for true vitality. Each aspect of health supports and enhances the others, illustrating that comprehensive well-being is achieved through a harmonious blend of all facets of health.
“Someone clear in mind, body, emotion and spirit is a powerful decision maker – Love Out Loud’s mission is to support and optimise the health of our leaders and build emotional capacity in our society at scale” – Nicole Gibson
