With so much time committed to the workplace, personal stress levels have escalated with the employee on an emotional rollercoaster to get through the day. Overtime, without the proper resources, stress can turn into an illness or disease.
According to Statistics Canada, 60% of workers report that work is a main factor of their stress impacting more women (34 percent) than men (27 percent). (Stats Canada 2011)
The most common symptoms employees experience are fatigue, high anxiety, sleeplessness, aches and pains, weight gain, nausea or dizziness.
Stress-related absences cost Canadian employers about $3.5 billion each year. (Total Health Management, Mercer)
Creating a corporate culture of a healthy work environment will reduce employee absenteeism, encourage team building, ensure better productivity and a happier workplace.Here are three strategies for improving corporate wellness:
1) Encourage an open culture of communication for staff to talk about their concerns and learn strategies for managing anxiety and stress. A person may experience an anxiety attack and not know what to do. Cultivating awareness about personal self-care deepens trust between management and teams. Introducing simple methods of deep breathing techniques, meditation practices or social activities such as painting, photography, or tai chi can relieve their stress.
TIP: If you take 5 minutes, sit back and take three deep breaths it will calm your mind. Breathe in for 5 seconds, pause for 5 seconds and breathe out for 5 seconds. Repeat two more times. If you still feel stressed complete the cycle again for another three deep breaths.
2) Good food must be a consistent message in the workplace. Providing healthier food choices in the company cafeteria and snacks are fundamental to functioning better at work and at home. Eating whole foods of vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and quality proteins enables a productive worker. Ongoing training for staff at all levels about what foods to eat to stay healthy, developing meal plans, shopping or cooking provides a solid foundation.
TIP: Avoid eating your lunch at your desk. It’s important to take time away at from work tasks and focus on eating your meal slowly, chewing each bite 20 times for at least 10 minutes in a relaxed and calm state. You’ll feels better and your digestive system will thank you for it!
3) Moving your body throughout the day to stay alert keeps the mind and body engaged. They are connected physically and mentally from the gut to the brain. Staying active and in shape supports muscle contraction and stimulates energy. Many company’s offer a fitness membership outside the office before or after work hours. Moving your body at regular intervals rather than sitting at your desk for six consecutive hours is critical for keeping the body focused and mind productive. Introducing stretches, yoga postures, some Pilates movements, or fitness classes during lunch hour or breaktimes will make the difference. Exercises at the desk can also improve circulation and mental acuity throughout the day.
TIP: Every two hours take a few minutes to stand up, walk around the office halls and stretch your legs. Do a few side bends and extend your arms upwards in a full body stretch. Repeat a few times a day.
Six in ten Canadians believe “their employer has some responsibility in ensuring their good health.” (Buffett National Wellness Survey)
Leading a wellness culture in the workplace will benefit the company’s morale, stimulate productivity, increase team loyalty and create happier people.
Contact Rani Glick Wellness to ensure your corporate wellness plan begins.
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