Lifestyle choices critical – Dr Essel
By Zeenatu ABUBAKAR, Accra
Wellness corporate specialist Dr. Kojo Cobba Essel, has stressed the critical importance of lifestyle choices in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Over the years, conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and obesity have become increasingly common, even among younger individuals in Ghana, posing significant health threats to the country’s youth.
Dr. Essel discussed how businesses can improve employee health, reduce absenteeism, and increase productivity by addressing key health issues that stem from poor lifestyle habits.
He pointed out that many organizations unknowingly lose valuable time and money when employees leave work to attend to their health needs.
He explained that by setting up on-site clinics, they can address minor illnesses and prevent staff from having to leave for treatments such as drug refills or fever management.
He highlighted the significance of community wellness initiatives, revealing that last year, Health Essentials conducted over 70,000 screenings for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
He stressed the alarming prevalence of these non-communicable diseases, with data showing that in some urban areas, one in three people is affected.
Speaking on Zed Wellness Link, Dr. Essel highlighted the negative health effects of stress, particularly its impact on heart health
He urged citizens to take their health more seriously and make resolutions for healthier lifestyle choices in the coming year.
He warned that while genetics may play a role, lifestyle factors—such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress—are often the real triggers.
One of the key solutions Dr. Essel offers is lifestyle modification, which includes improving physical, mental, social, spiritual, financial, and digital wellness.
He added that the six pillars of wellness are all interconnected and emphasized that neglecting one will affect the others.
On physical wellness, Dr. Essel recommended regular exercise tailored to one’s fitness level and age, emphasizing the importance of both cardiovascular and strength training exercises for longevity.
He underscored the importance of mental wellness, advising those with chronic conditions to seek psychological support to help manage stress and improve overall health.
Dr. Essel indicated that friendship is a major contributor to longevity, advocating for strong, supportive social networks.
He emphasized that you don’t need many friends, just a few who can help you weather life’s storms.
Addressing the spiritual aspect of wellness, Dr. Essel pointed out that a connection to a higher power can help reduce stress and improve physical health.
“There’s evidence that prayer or spiritual practices can lower stress levels and promote better healing,” he said.
According to him, there is power in smiling, encouraging others to start their day with a smile
He noted that smiling whether real or forced triggers the brain to release feel-good hormones, benefiting both your own mood and those around
Dr. Essel warned about the dangers of excessive screen time and digital overload which is a growing concern in the modern world.
He noted that they are constantly plugged in, leading to physical problems like neck pain and poor posture, and advocated for more balanced digital engagement.
Dr. Essel stressed that achieving true wellness requires a holistic approach, integrating physical health, mental clarity, social connections, and spiritual peace. He urged both individuals and organizations to take action now, before it’s too late.
