A person’s lifestyle is an expression of their interests, activities, attitude, values and opinions. These can be shaped by culture, social values, family background and reference groups.
Healthy lifestyles are defined by regular physical activity, a balanced diet and other elements that promote overall wellbeing. Unfortunately, these can also be compromised due to socioeconomic circumstances or environmental influences.
Definition
A lifestyle is a way of living that expresses one’s values and worldview.
A healthy lifestyle includes balanced meals, regular exercise, adequate rest and relaxation to reduce the risk of major illness.
The American Heritage Dictionary describes a lifestyle as “the pattern of social relations, consumption, entertainment and dress that defines an individual.”
Wikipedia defines culture as: “a way of life or style of living that expresses the attitudes and values of an individual or group.”
Sociology uses the term to describe an individual’s habits, views, attitudes, values and perspectives on politics, religion, health care issues and other matters.
The concept is intricate and multifaceted, with various interpretations. At the global level, it often refers to consumer class; at structural, nation-state and positional levels it may be connected with subcultures or belief systems.
Meaning
Lifestyle is the collection of daily decisions that shape an individual’s health and well-being. This concept applies to both men and women alike; leading to a longer, happier, healthier life through proper diet, exercise, and stress management.
Lifestyle is also a reflection of an individual’s social interactions, both positive and negative. Studies have generally found that those who are socially connected and have meaningful relationships tend to lead healthier and happier lives than their less extroverted peers. Making time for meaningful connections with family, friends, and co-workers will go a long way toward creating an enjoyable lifestyle with plenty of health benefits.
The beauty of living a healthy lifestyle is that it can be enjoyed for life. To achieve it, one must make wise choices and learn to appreciate the finer things in life, such as eating nutritiously, getting enough sleep each night, doing regular exercises, and working in an encouraging atmosphere.
Origin
A lifestyle is a way of life that encompasses patterns in social relations, consumption, entertainment and dress. It also reflects an individual’s attitudes, values and worldview. Promoting healthy living requires thoughtful decisions regarding diet, work, leisure activities and relationships with others. The term “lifestyle” was first coined in the 1940s when the World Health Organization defined health as an overall state of mental, physical and social well-being rather than simply disease absence.
