In today’s fast-paced world, wellness is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. As we mark Wellness Awareness Month, Kenyans are encouraged to reflect on what it means to be truly well, not just physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and socially. 

What is Wellness? 

Wellness is the active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health. It's not just the absence of disease — it’s about thriving, not just surviving. True wellness encompasses:

• Physical health – staying active, eating nutritious food, and managing chronic illnesses
• Mental health – coping with stress, anxiety, and depression
• Emotional balance – understanding and expressing your emotions healthily
• Social well-being – maintaining healthy relationships and support systems
• Spiritual and occupational wellness – finding purpose and meaning in life and work

 The Kenyan Wellness Landscape 

In Kenya, conversations around wellness are growing — but challenges remain.

• Mental health still carries stigma in many communities. Yet, conditions like depression and anxiety are increasingly common, especially among youth and urban populations.
• Lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are rising due to sedentary habits, processed food, and alcohol misuse.
• Many Kenyans lack access to affordable health care and wellness education, particularly in rural areas.

Yet, there is hope. Kenyan communities are incredibly resilient, and local wellness movements — from yoga classes in Karura Forest to wellness retreats in Naivasha — are gaining momentum.