What is the health triangle and how to take care of yours this new year

When one mentions “health”, physical health is what comes to mind for many people. According to the World Health Organisation, the word is defined as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being” and nicknamed “the health triangle”. With these three aspects in balance, it allows for optimal performance and increases efficiency.

If one area is neglected, it affects the whole triangle and the other two have a greater chance of weakening too. So have you been paying attention to one aspect more than another in 2021? Here’s what you can do to achieve a healthier overall well-being in 2022.

Social health

Out of all three aspects, social health may be the area that people are least conscious of. As we are so intertwined with connections in our lives, from friends and family to colleagues, it’s only right that we pay particular attention to this aspect of our lives. It includes having positive and meaningful interactions with people and being able to effectively communicate our feelings and needs, as well as serving others. Humans thrive with personal connections and staying connected especially amidst a global pandemic has never been more important.

The pandemic may instill a sense of uncertainty for many, creating feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out) when comparing lives to those on the internet. It’s important to surround yourself with people who make you feel good, which includes curating a positive social media space for yourself as well. To improve your social health in 2022, you can also try joining communities which you are passionate about and can feel involved in. Examples include baking or gardening interest groups. Some people may feel disconnected from their peers which also highlights how scheduling regular lunch or dinner dates with loved ones can significantly help build or rekindle bonds again.

By improving your social health, you would feel increased feelings of purpose, belonging and self-worth. It benefits your mental health too as they’re correlated.

Mental health

While maintaining your social life, keeping up with work or studies and other responsibilities, it is easy to neglect your mental health and forget prioritising your own needs. The quick paced life, especially for those living in Singapore, should not compromise on your mental well-being. Research has also shown that with the pandemic, mental health among individuals has deteriorated significantly, with more seeking therapy.

It can be easy for life to fly by as you go through the motions of your responsibilities, making you feel tired or overwhelmed. One of the best things you can do for yourself when you feel burnt out is to just take a break. Taking breaks and having constant reminders for yourself to do so is crucial for you to recharge. You may feel guilty for not being productive but be kinder to yourself and acknowledge that recharging is a form of productivity. Spend time doing things you enjoy and are good at during these breaks to help stimulate endorphins. And when you’re feeling troubled, talk about your feelings with someone you trust. This helps you feel less alone and supported by someone.

Physical health

The most common aspect of health; taking good care of your physical health needs no long explanation of why it’s important. Maintaining adequate amounts of physical activity and consuming nutritious food goes a long way in making you feel good both inside and out. Go for a walk during your breaks, opt for healthier options during meals and go for any necessary regular check-ups to ensure that your body is healthy.

For the new year, you may have included a resolution to be healthier and decide to sign up for a gym membership. Be sure to establish an exercise schedule that works for you in the long run (check out our tips on how to set effective new year resolutions here). On top of keeping active, it is equally important to incorporate regular medical check-ups as part of your healthy lifestyle. It is a pre-emptive measure and can help spot potential illnesses for early treatment.

For an added peace of mind, a great way to reassure yourself and protect your physical health for the year ahead is with critical illness insurance. For FWD Big 3 Critical Illness, it provides coverage for cancer, heart attack and stroke, which make up approximately 90% of all critical illness claims¹ from as low as 1/3 the price of a regular critical illness plan².

It is a simple yet comprehensive plan with a one-time 100% cash pay-out upon a claim, allowing you to focus on recovery while ensuring that your financial commitments and your loved ones are well taken care of. Getting your protection plan is simple and easy too with no medical examination required, just a health declaration. Check out  FWD Big 3 Critical Illness price and get covered within minutes. Visit our insurance promotions for exclusive discounts!