Environmental Wellness

Environmental wellness refers to the dimension of wellness that focuses on the quality of your external surroundings and their impact on your overall well-being.

It involves developing an awareness of the interdependence between you, your community, and the natural world. 

Environmental wellness encompasses various aspects

1. Physical Environment: This aspect considers the health and safety of your surroundings. It involves having access to clean air and water and a safe and comfortable living and working environment. It also relates to the preservation of natural resources and the minimization of pollution.
2. Natural Environment: Being in harmony with the natural world is a crucial element of environmental wellness. It involves spending time in nature, appreciating the beauty of the environment, and understanding the importance of conserving it for future generations.
3. Sustainability: Sustainability focuses on responsible resource management to ensure the planet's long-term health. It involves making eco-conscious choices in your lifestyle, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting environmentally-friendly practices.
4. Community Involvement: Participating in environmental initiatives and community projects can contribute to your environmental wellness. Working with others to protect and enhance the local environment fosters a sense of connection and purpose.
5. Awareness and Education: Understanding the environmental issues facing your community and the world is essential for environmental wellness. Staying informed and educating yourself about these issues enables you to make informed choices and advocate for positive change.

Resources to help medical improve their environmental wellness

1. MedEdPORTAL's Health Systems Science: MedEdPORTAL offers a collection of freely accessible environmental health and health systems science resources, including case studies, modules, and assessments. These materials can help medical learners understand the impact of the environment on health and healthcare systems.
2. The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change: The Lancet Countdown provides reports, research papers, and resources related to the impact of climate change on public health. Medical learners can access valuable information and stay updated on the intersection of environmental factors and health.
3. Environmental Health Perspectives (EHP): EHP is a peer-reviewed journal that covers environmental health topics, research articles, and educational resources. It's an excellent source for medical students looking into the latest environmental health research.
4. American Public Health Association (APHA) - Environmental Health: APHA's Environmental Health section offers various environmental health resources and tools that can benefit medical learners. You can find reports, webinars, and information on environmental health topics.

Podcasts

• The Big Picture: Sustainability in Healthcare: Hosted by Dr. Mustafa Sultan
• Climate Cast: Hosted by Paul Huttner (MPR Meteorologist)