5 Pillars of Health

5 Pillars of Health: Foundational Guide to Living Life to the Fullest

With social media, blogs, news, books, and television seeking your attention (yes, including this one), there is a sea of health information, anecdotes, advice, tips, hacks, and secrets. Some information is derived from credible sources and tested, while other information is purely speculative or personal opinion.The term "5 Pillars of Health" comes from multiple sources, mentors, and research. These pillars are foundational components of living a healthy life. When one or more of these pillars are neglected, health starts to gradually slip until you experience pain, dysfunction, or a crisis that motivates you to take action.

The 5 Pillars

• Hydration
• Nutrition
• Movement
• Sleep
• Mental Peace

When it comes to pain, chronic conditions, injuries, or sports injuries, many people are puzzled about how they ended up in such a state. My training as a clinician began with a bachelor's degree in basic health sciences, which carried through to my master's and doctorate programs. You don’t need these degrees to understand the pillars and their importance, but I've cultivated a passion for them as they are the simple key to living a healthy life and, ultimately, a life to the fullest.

Isn’t that what everyone wants? To live life to the fullest? Sign me up.

If it’s so simple, then why is it so difficult? Is it the government, food supply, culture, economics, lack of intention, laziness? The answer is both yes and no. There are too many factors to attribute to one issue wreaking havoc among all people. It's more likely that a combination of factors contribute to health breakdowns. The real question is: How can you live your life to the fullest?

Full Functioning System

Maintaining overall health requires a holistic approach encompassing hydration, nutrition, movement, sleep, and mental peace. Proper hydration supports cellular functions, joint health, and energy levels. A balanced diet rich in nutrients fuels the body, bolsters the immune system, supports emotional health, and prevents chronic diseases. Regular physical activity enhances cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and mental well-being, while adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive function, emotional stability, and physical repair. Mental peace, achieved through stress-reducing practices like mindfulness and strong social connections, underpins emotional resilience and overall life satisfaction. Together, these elements create a foundation for optimal health and well-being.

By integrating these pillars into your daily life, you can cultivate a robust foundation for health, allowing you to truly live life to the fullest. At Wagner Sports Chiropractic, we believe in these principles and are here to support you on your journey to optimal health.

-Dr. Grant Wagner, DC, MS, CCSP