Health is more than simply the absence of illness. It is the active state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. —UN World Health Organization
Signs of health
Energy flow
Ease, freedom of movement
Eyes clear, shining, open
Coat smooth, shining, satin feel
Elasticity, suppleness
Positive attitude
Flowing lines
Smooth gaits
Lightness
Straightness – alignment – in body and limbs
Balanced, coordinated
Presence, attention
Clarity, sharpness
Confidence
Self-awareness
Signs of ill health or “dis-ease”
Stillness (“checked out”)
Stagnation (“dead in the water”)
Meaningless movement (“pacey”, “flighty”, “weaver”)
Dull or narrowed eyes (“mean”)
Coat dull, thick, rough, patchy (“just the way she is”)
Lack of energy (“lazy”)
Stiffness (“getting old”)
Pain (“bad attitude”)
Awkward anatomical lines – angles, not curves; bulges (“bad conformation”)
Jerky movement (“rough gaited”)
Crookedness (“put together by a committee”)
Uneven balance (“heavy-footed”, “on the forehand”)