Good health is so vital for wellbeing that the two terms are often thought of as being the same thing. The constitution of the World Health Organisation states that health is a “state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.

Therefore, being in good health can be thought of as being able to function optimally on all levels, enabling an individual to reach their full potential in life.

It is influenced by a multitude of physiological, social and psychological factors, and the importance of these different factors to the optimum health of any individual will vary widely.

Some of these factors are fairly universal, such as maintaining a healthy weight, consuming nutritious foods, keeping physically active, giving up smoking, limiting alcohol intake to within sensible levels (according to the FSA it's 2-3 units a day for women and 3-4 units a day for men), having a fulfilling life, a safe and comfortable environment and a happy and safe sex life - these are all fundamental to health and happiness.

Good health is also about balance. The way in which we develop and work to maintain this balance will vary from individual to individual.

Realising what each life-affecting factor means to you is an important discovery. Whether it be spending quality time with friends, giving up smoking, reducing work time, walking each day or drinking plenty of water – getting the balance right on these factors will bring about good health and wellbeing. And getting involved in the Year of Wellbeing will provide you with the help and guidance you need to improve your overall health and wellbeing.