1. Do you agree with the statements below? Why?

1. People are becoming more and more obsessed with health and well-being.

2. The power of life style is quite important in promoting health and well-being.

3. Learning in health and wellbeing ensure that people develop the knowledge, understanding and

skills which they need now and in the future.

2. Read the news item Health and Well-being. Why do people pay so much attention to their health?

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1____Whether we are healthy, exercise regularly, and adopt good nutritional patterns, or are in poor health, are couch potatoes, and fill our veins with cholesterol, it is impossible to avoid reading about, hearing about, and observing the interest in health and well-being in our society. The AIDS epidemic, starving children in Somalia, the poor quality of health care that many American families receive compared to their counterparts in other industrialized nations, the ever present stress in many people's lives, the succumbing of many people to lives of alcohol and drug abuse, the rapidly expanding elderly population and how its health care will be provided, and how we can effectively cope with major life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, and the loss of a job, as well as the countless daily hassles that infuse our lives — these are among the innumerable issues and dilemmas we face as we make the long journey through the human life span.

2. _____Asian physicians around 2600 ВС and Greek physicians around 500 ВС recognized that good habits are essential for good health. They did not blame the gods for illness and think that magic would cure it. They realized that people have some control over their health and well-being. A physician's role was that of a guide, assisting patients in restoring a natural and emotional balance.

3. _____Today we recognize the pow­er of life-styles and psychological states in promoting health and well-being. We are returning to the ancient view that the ultimate responsibility for indi­viduals' health and well-being throughout the human life span rests with the individuals themselves.

4. _____There are five ways to Wellbeing and 2020 the Decade of Health and Wellbeing is about encouraging people to build these ways into their daily routines and potentially add 7.5 years to their life expectancy. The underlying message through the five ways is that mental health and wellbeing is as important as physical health; feeling good is an important part of being healthy:

5. ______Connect with others whether it is at home, work, school or within the local community. Taking the time to develop these relationships can enhance everyday life. Be Active… ‘Healthy body, healthy mind’ finding something suitable for your level of fitness and most importantly, which you enjoy; anything from trampolining in the garden to walking to work.

6. _____Take notice of the world around you. Noticing the simple things whilst going about your daily routine, such as a change in season or a piece of artwork and savouring the moment will help put things I perspective and allow you to be more appreciative. Keep learning trying something different such as learning a new instrument or language will set a challenge, increasing motivation and confidence. Give do something nice for a friend or stranger…buy a big issue, help out in your local community. Putting your efforts towards a good cause can be incredibly rewarding.  2020 is all about working collectively to create a healthier region.

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