Hawaii Continues to Lead in Wellbeing; North Dakota Second
http://www.gallup.com/poll/149105/Hawaii-Continues-Lead-Wellbeing-North-Dakota-Second.aspx
Americans in Hawaii continued to set the national standard in wellbeing in the first half of 2011, followed closely by North Dakota. West Virginia and Kentucky maintained their status as the states with the lowest wellbeing. Nebraska, which showed the biggest gains in wellbeing rank from 2009 (25th) to 2010 (10th), continued to move up, landing in the top five.
Hawaii Again Tops List in Emotional and Physical Health
On the sub-indexes that make up the broader Well-Being Index, Hawaii is tops in Emotional Health and Physical Health, two domains in which it perennially leads the nation. People often like to say; “The grass is always greener on the other side”. However, most of us who have had the pleasure of living in Hawaii know that life out here in the Pacific Ocean is pretty sweet! Sure, there are some obstacles that we are forced to overcome such as high gas prices or the difficulty of traveling to visit family in the mainland or elsewhere. But, overall we have got it really good.
The reasons why our “wellbeing” is consistently tops are numerous. For starters, of course, we eat well. There is the wonderful selection of cuisine in the Hawaiian Islands: Hawaiian plate lunches, Thai curries, Okazuya, Korean BBQ, Mexican food (although in short supply), local Indian and Greek restaurants and fresh island produce and fish.
Then there are the awe-inspiring beaches for surfing, swimming, diving, and relaxation and the consistently, warm and balmy weather. This combination makes for year-round outdoor activities and generally pleasant moods. “Seasonal affective disorder” (S.A.D.), which our friends in the Northwest US can testify to, is not something we worry about.
The land has spirit and the people have heart. The vibe here is mellow, the landscape is amazing, and generally we enjoy living life. With all that said, we are never surprised to learn that the people of Hawaii rank #1 in emotional and physical health. Live well, feel great.
Hawaii is a special place we are honored to call home.
