Here is a foundational exploration into what it truly means to feel alive: Subjective Vitality. 

This research goes beyond mere physical energy or "caloric reserves," defining vitality as a psychological state of enthusiasm and spirit that serves as a primary indicator of personal well-being. 

By bridging ancient wisdom—like the concepts of Chi and Ki—with modern empirical science, authors Ryan and Frederick demonstrate that our vital energy is a "phenomenal nexus" where our physical health and psychological agency meet. 

Whether we are looking to understand the roots of our own daily motivation or seeking a "health of spirit" that persists even through (physical) challenges, this study provides the validated framework and tools to help us measure and cultivate your own inner aliveness.

#PsychologicalAliveness, #SubjectiveVitalityScale, #OrganismicWellBeing, #SomaticHealth, #PerceivedLocusOfCausality, #IntrinsicMotivation

"Ever feel like 'energy' is more than just a physical state? 

A comprehensive scoping review of 93 studies initiated a unified scientific definition or description of vitality:

"Vitality represents a positive subjective concept composed of physiological and psychological energy, which level may vary in accordance with certain influences and can be regulated and harnessed by a person possessing it" (p.12).

At root level, vitality is linked to historical domains like vitalism and Eastern traditions (such as Chi, Prana, or Ki) that view it as a fundamental life force or energy that can be enriched or exhausted. 

It is described as a renewable, subjective resource that we can actively regulate to boost our individual and collective beingness, doingness, and well-being. 

(I would intentionally replace the word “performance” with “beingness or doingness” in any writing about vitality, because this word gives us an easy excuse to put on a mask, ignore or forget quiet inner voices, or value conformity over authenticity.  When everyone is deeply aware of our inner vitality paired with deep alignment, great “performance,” whether individually or collectively, will simply become a by-product.)

#Vitality, #SubjectiveVitality, #WellBeing, #MentalHealth, #SomaticHealth, #SelfDeterminationTheory, #HumanVitality, #HumanResource, #Resilience, #Mindfulness, #ReImagine