Wellness, for the longest time, has been viewed as a luxury afforded only by the affluent. There has always been a very specific demographic that has been able to avail the benefits of a healthy body, mind and soul. Wellness should be the right of every individual, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, culture, body type and socio-economic background.
There should be an adequate representation of different ethnicities and minority communities in order to have an inclusive wellness experience.
Below are a few pointers which help create an atmosphere which is conducive to inclusivity within the wellness sphere:
BREATHE in creativity
Creativity is defined as the tendency to generate or recognise ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems. Being creative means viewing things with a different perspective, which generates new possibilities and alternatives. These perspectives are achieved through the activities of flexibility and the tolerance of ambiguity.
STRETCH beyond the sky
To set limits based on preconceived ideas creates boundaries which are exclusionary in nature. To constantly keep stretching beyond and reaching for new horizons creates opportunities to look at scenarios in a renewed format.
WALK towards progress
It is important to know that progress is only possible when all of us match steps and walk together.
MOVE in awareness
Awareness is the ability to directly know and perceive, to feel, or to be cognizant of events. It is to be constantly in the present moment while constantly evolving and being receptive to any challenges which might present themselves.
STABILISE and be balanced
It is imperative that all workplaces create company wellness committees as this group decides the direction of activities and the inclusion of diversity within the workplace. It is important to include workers with disabilities as part of the programme and open channels of communication.
STRENGTHEN core
The average Indian is not the face of fitness that one views in fitness magazines which are filled with young, thin, light-skinned women and are gross misrepresentations of the general population. All of us should be represented and seen as equally valuable.
MEDITATE with the universe
Diversity and representation is not the end goal but just the first rung on the inclusivity ladder.
(The author is a holistic health guru, corporate life coach)