Symbols of health are emblems that help people universally find what they need in healthcare systems. They are also symbols you can use in your home to surround yourself with positive vibes and hopefully bring good health to your family.
What Is Health?
Health is a state of well-being. It includes physical, mental, social, and spiritual health rather than the absence of disease.
5 Types Of Health
Physical
- Exercising
- Eating healthy
- Avoiding substance abuse
- Sleeping well
- Personal hygiene
Spiritual
- Meditation
- Focusing on goals, who you are, and life
- Practicing your religion
- Connecting with nature
Emotional
- Staying positive
- Accepting negative emotions
- Spending time doing what brings you joy
- Opening up to people you can trust
Social
- Finding like minds
- Listening to those with differing views
- Leaving bad relationships
Intellectual
- Focusing on school or work when necessary
- Keeping up with what’s happening
- Learning something every day
Why Symbols Are Used In Healthcare
Symbols are used in healthcare to help patients and their families find what they are looking for. Because the symbols replace words, these universal signs make it easy for foreigners to navigate through hospitals and more.
In 2006, the Universal Symbols in Health Care was completed, concluding that symbols were beneficial.
20 Symbols Of Health
1. World Symbol of Health – The Caduceus
The Caduceus is a modernized symbol of health. It is a staff with wings and two snakes wrapped around it. Though it has ancient roots, the meaning has changed to become a symbol of worldwide healthcare.
2. Greece Symbol of Health – Rod of Asclepius
The Rod of Asclepius is a Greek and Roman symbol of health. It was used by physicians in ancient times. Because they used snakes in their practices, the symbol consists of a snake wrapped around a staff.
3. Emergency Symbol of Health – Star of Life
The Star of Life is an emergency symbol in America. It is seen on ambulances and emergency rooms. The Star of Life is a six-pointed star with flat points and the Rod of Asclepius in the center.
4. Asian Symbol of Health – Gourd
The gourd is a common symbol of health in Asian countries. It is a sign of longevity and was once believed to hold an elixir of eternal life.
5. Egyptian Symbol of Health – Eye of Horus
The Eye of Horus is the Egyptian Symbol of Health. It symbolizes Horus’ lost eye, which has healing powers.
6. Nordic Rune for Health
The Nordic rune for health looks like a scythe with a diamond on the middle. It has ancient origins, long representing longevity, health, and protection.
7. Reiki Symbol of Health – Cho Ku Rei
The Reiki Symbol of health is the Cho Ku Rei sign. It represents the unending flow of energy with healing powers. It amplifies any positive power and is often used in medical practices.
8. Mental Protection Symbol of Health – Hands Holding Brain
The hands holding a brain symbol represents taking care of mental health. It symbolizes being aware of the health of others and proceeding with caution.
9. Ancient Symbol of Health – Serpents
Snakes are the oldest symbol of health. They have Biblical origins, with Moses being one of the most famous to reference them.
10. Universal Symbol of Health – Heart
The heart is a well-known symbol of health. Though not usually alone, the heart can add new meanings to any emblem, and one of those meanings is healthcare.
11. Russian Symbol of Health – Red Crescent Moon
Russia is one of the northern European countries that adopted the red crescent moon as a symbol of health. Though it has dark origins, it still sometimes takes the place of the Red Cross.
12. U.N. Symbol of Health – Red Cross
The Red Cross was well-known throughout the world during many wars in the 1800s and 1900s. It has since been a sign of medical care, especially in the military.
13. Native American Symbol for Health – Shaman’s Hand
The Shaman’s Hand is a Native American symbol of health. Many believe that it represents the Holy Spirit or another higher power. It has pure healing energy.
14. Modern Mental Health Symbol – Semicolon
The Semicolon now brings mental health awareness. It is a common tattoo to let others know that you are a safe space and that no one should feel alone. It is often used to honor someone close to the wearer that has struggled with mental health.
15. Broad Symbol of Health – Ribbon
Ribbons represent a specific type of health. Red ribbons often stand for heart health, while green for mental health. There are dozens of colors, each representing something different.
16. Multi-Cultural Symbol of Health – Lotus Flower
The lotus flower is a symbol of health in many countries. It has ancient and medical origins but is now used to represent an easy-to-understand emblem of health.
17. Another Reiki Symbol of Health – Dai Ko Myo
The Dai Ko Myo symbol represents the strength to get through health struggles. It appears as a strong and unwavering tower.
18. Chinese Symbol of Health – Shou
The Chinese symbol of health is Shou. This is a medallion-like emblem that represents longevity, often given as gifts to those who you wish well.
19. Secular Symbol of Health – Red Crystal
The Red Crystal is a post-2000 symbol of health. It was proposed to take the place of the more religious origins of other symbols, allowing inclusivity in healthcare.
20. Zuni Symbol of Health – Sun Face
The sun face is a Zuni symbol of health. It was used to bless crops, people, and the spirit. The complex symbol has old origins but has now become a simple, positive symbol in modern homes.