Holistic Wellness Targeted Objective: Nutrition

Holistic Wellness

Targeted objective: Nutrition and Weight Status.

Target population: 11-20: adolescent/young adulthood.

Model of Health Promotion and Wellness: Holistic wellness: Self-inventory of personal wellness using the Medicine Wheel. (Lundy and Janes, 2009)

Overweight and obesity are among the biggest problems faced by American society today. A child is considered obese when the weight is at least 10% higher than is recommended for the particular height and body type of the child. Obesity in adolescence is a particularly difficult problem, since studies have suggested that children who are obese whey they are between 10 and 13 years old are 80% likely to become obese adults as well (American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 2008). It is therefore an issue that could affect their future and their entire adult lives. Hence, the Health People 2020 objective of Nutrition and Weight Status is examined by means of the holistic wellness model suggested by the Medicine Wheel.

Physical wellness refers to the maintenance of the body, which entails healthy eating and exercising habits. Because adolescents are the concern here, most habits are cultivated during school hours, which makes schools responsible for the physical well-being of this age group. Danger points would then basically lie in a lack of healthy food choices and a lack of exercise programs during school hours.

Vocational wellness for adolescents would mean a sense of enjoyment at schools. Danger points in this regard would be either a lack of exercise and sports programs, or a lack of enjoyment while taking part in these programs. Some young people may feel forced to take part in these activities, or that they are not good at physically demanding tasks.

Psychological wellness refers to a person's experience of reality and his or her ability to think reasonably and clearly. In schools, the logic of physical wellness should be imparted to students, encouraging them to willingly take part in physical wellness programs.

Social wellness means that social roles are fulfilled effectively and comfortably, with the equal wellness of others in mind. A significant danger here could be a basic lack of self-esteem caused by sneering attitudes from peers when attempting to take part in physical fitness programs. Body issues are also a significant factor here.

Emotional wellness is closely connected to social wellness, especially when it comes to the school setting. Being bullied and abused by one's peers as a result of a certain lack of prowess or excess body weight could be a heavy burden on a child's emotional wellness.

Environmental wellness means that risk is minimized in terms of health, socioeconomic status, education, and so on. The school environment should therefore be set up in such a way as to minimize the risks to the health of young students.

Spiritual wellness means that a state of balance and harmony is achieved within the individual. This includes elements such as trust and integrity and a commitment to a purpose. This could then also translate to the physical aspect of healthy living in terms of regular exercise and healthy eating. A longer life is ensured by these habits, which means more time to strive towards one's purpose in life.