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Wellness is generally used to mean a healthy balance of the mind-body and spirit, resulting in an overall feeling of well-being. It has been used in the context of alternative medicine since Halbert L. Dunn in the 50’s, however the modern concept of wellness did not become popular until the 1970's, but it is stirring up new waves ever since. Dunn defined wellness as "an integrated method of functioning which is oriented toward maximizing the potential of which the individual is capable. It requires that the individual maintain a continuum of balance and purposeful direction within the environment where he is functioning” and he also stated that "wellness is a direction in progress toward an ever-higher potential of functioning". By now it grew as a popular concept and its definitions vary depending upon who is promoting it. It can be defined as the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and as an alternative concept, is generally thought to mean more than the mere absence of disease; rather it is an optimal state of health. As a luxury pursuit, it is found obviously in the more affluent societies because it involves managing the body state after the basic needs of food, shelter and basic medical care have already been met. Supporters of these programs believe that many factors contribute to wellness: living in a clean environment, eating organic food, regularly engaging in physical exercise, and balance in career, family and relationships. However, we are many and we are different and opinions may vary, so the ultimate answers to health and happiness are a dynamic moving target and the answer will differ by country, state, city, county, religion, race, profession and even gender. It involves downright personal choices and is different for each one of us, and each of us should live with its freedom of choice how to explore and maintain its personal wellness.
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