Over the years, I have seen a variety of images to communicate the balance we need to experience true wellness. Holistic wellness starts out with consideration of body, mind, and spirit – and then expands into the many other aspects of life. Various designs of circles have been created to provide an image of our balanced need. This first image shows three overlapping circles with the center indicating the balance.
One of my favorite circle images is a “wheel” representing the Wellness Inventory developed by John Travis MD, founder of one of the first holistic wellness centers in the country. The inventory expands the basic three into twelve areas of consideration for personal well being. These areas go deeper into our human need and include our relationship with others
I recently came across another circle, a spiral that communicates an even deeper level of consideration. This image expands the categories to include cultural and environmental considerations. In addition, it also expands the personal focus to connect with family, community, and world.
Overall, the message is to consider the fullness of life, all the ways we are affected and affect others, and all the ways we can grow and change to create a world where wellness for all is the value we live by.