As the wicks of a lamp absorb and transport the oil from the vessel fueling the flame to produce light, likewise our body is the vessel that consists of five vital aspects which act as wicks that enhance the quality of life in every person. If wicks aren’t fitted well its light falls short, similarly, if these 5 aspects of every individual aren't nurtured well, it will impact our quality of life. Hence balancing these aspects will contribute to a successful life, filled with self-worth and satisfaction.
Human beings are integrated beings. The ability to reason, will, and experience emotions are the central part of our being. As a result of this, every person naturally has an essential need to have a sense of self-worth. We already know that each one of us is unique in nature, possessing different temperaments and personalities.
But what remains common among us is the 5 functionalities. It's these functionalities that determine the quality of our life. Nurturing these functionalities will improve and result in leading a contented and satisfying life.
Now, let’s discern the five aspects of every human’s functionality. We need to be aware that each of us is a Physical Being, Emotional Being, Rational being, Spiritual Being, and Volitional Being. We are not compartmentalized but rather integrated beings and all these 5 areas are intricately connected and related to each other. Usually what happens in one area affects the other. So understanding each of these aspects will guide you in analyzing and studying yourself which will be a stepping stone for a quality living.
1. Physical Being - Our physical frame is the outermost part of our being. Our Human personality resides in a physical body. When physical wellbeing is taken care of, it boosts mental and emotional wellbeing as well. Training your physical aspect like being mindful of your food intake, nutrition, engaging in fitness or sports activities, maintaining your weight according to your height requirement, ensuring good sleep, all will infuse its goodness on all other aspects.
2. Emotional Beings
Emotions by themselves are not right or wrong. But our reactions and expressions to every situation spin a corresponding outcome. Our former experiences in childhood and adulthood also contribute to our emotional being. Thus, how we respond emotionally to a situation isn’t something we can alter easily but understanding our emotional aspect, reflecting on how we behave differently in the different scenarios will help us to control and manage our emotions rather than the emotions driving us. It’s one of the most important aspects to grasp control.
3. Rational Being – Humans are rational beings because Reasoning comes by nature to every individual. As a rational being, every individual has the ability to reason, discern between right and wrong, good and bad using his intellect. Some issues arise due to irrational thinking. So stabilizing on this aspect will prove beneficial.
4. Spiritual Being – Basically Refers to the connection/relationship with God. But this could mean differently to different people. Spirituality and religion are two separate facets. Spirituality also means knowing your beliefs. Establishing a deeper connection between your mind, body, spirit, and the energy around you. Intensifying your spiritual aspect will nourish other areas as well.
5. Volitional Being – Means the power of choosing or determining. In other words, an act of making a decision or a choice. Choices is a decision we make. From these choices and decisions emerges our behavior, which in turn shapes us into the kind of person we are. Making wise decisions is a personal responsibility. We may not always be in control of circumstances we encounter but we always have a choice to choose how we address it.
So, to conclude, all 5 aspects aren’t compartmentalized but integrated. What happens in one area impacts the other. Understanding and analyzing the 5 aspects will empower you to be in control and master yourself. For instance- When you’re in physical pain, it causes us to feel low. Or a physical reaction to anxiety may be palpitation and uneasiness. Knowing these functions will guide you in managing, taking control, and choosing to make a mindful decision that will result in a positive outcome.