What is emotional well-being?
Good question! There is currently little consensus on the exact definition of EWB, the types of EWB, the best ways to measure EWB, or the roles of EWB in health interventions.
Existing definitions propose that:
- Emotional well-being (EWB) refers to explicitly positive states (e.g., life satisfaction, happiness, meaning and purpose, positive emotions).
- EWB is distinct and important; it is not simply the absence of negative states such as depression or stress but instead reflects distinct dimensions of positive functioning.
Work on EWBs as a broad and distinct domain of functioning independent of distress is rapidly emerging. Stay tuned as the Network continues to develop a consensus EWB definition and to identify the constituent parts of EWB! Updates will be provided here.
Our Network is also exploring the potential role of Mind-Body Interventions in promoting EWB.
What are Mind-Body Interventions (MBI)?
Mind-Body Interventions (MBIs) are behavioral interventions that aim to influence both the mind and the body.
- Some include a strong movement component: yoga, Tai Chi, and Qigong
- Others are mainly sedentary: meditation, breath regulation techniques, and the relaxation response
MBIs are associated with reduced stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and pain
So far, research has focused on MBIs reducing distress rather than promoting EWB. Our network aims to advance this important line of research.
Given MBI’s highly accessible, scalable, and adaptable nature, we are excited to explore the potential of MBIs for promoting EWB.