For enhanced health and productivity
When was the last time you were stressed at work? When was the last time you wanted a ten-minute break to rejuvenate yourself? Just yesterday, you might say!
According to a study by the Associated Chambers of Commerce of India (ASSOCHAM), 66% CEOs in India are stressed. A study by National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) revealed that 27.6% IT professionals are addicted to narcotics, while another report revealed that 70% IT professionals are prone to cardiovascular diseases
These startling numbers reveal that there needs to be some proactive intervention from employers to introduce a work environment that is stress-free and promotes wellness among employees. Wellness program are more than just perks and recreation activities that a company can offer. They are meant to improve the lifestyle of employees and in the long run, enhance health, morale and productivity.
Workplace wellness programs are growing in popularity with businesses regardless of their size. They are constantly evolving to include more team-based activities, to not only boost physical health but also manage stress and promote a healthy mental state.
A Harvard Business Review (HBR) study showed that 57% of people with high health risk reached low-risk status by completing a worksite cardiac rehabilitation and exercise program, over a period of six months. Johnson and Johnson, which had introduced several wellness initiatives, reduced the number of employees who smoked by two-thirds, while those suffering from high blood pressure was reduced to half. This wellness program cumulatively saved $250 million over a decade in healthcare costs for the company. Thereby, wellness programs are good for companies as well as for its employees.
Here are some workplace wellness ideas that you could implement in your company to boost employee health, productivity and morale.
Provide Wholesome Snacks
Instead of potato chips and chocolate bars often common in offices, employers could stock a healthy supply of nutritious foods such as fresh fruit, granola bars and snacks, to help employees, eat healthier and become fitter.
Conduct Sports Programs
Nothing is a better team building exercise than playing a sport together. Pick a sport that everyone is interested in and conduct a competition. Smaller companies can also join a weekend sports league. Playing together will build office camaraderie and also boost health.
Tie-up with Gyms
Most large companies like Google and Facebook have their own gyms; smaller companies can incentivise employees to go to the gym by offering them discounts on gym memberships.
Encourage Walking Meetings
Make meetings and discussions more mobile. Since most office work is done sitting down, a walking meeting is a good idea to improve blood flow and keep employees more active.
Unwind during Recess Time
Pick a ten-minute slot during the day for a team break, where members can unwind and converse freely.
Hold a Fitness Challenge
Hold a fitness challenge by arranging fun exercise challenges. It is a great way to foster competitive spirit among employees while encouraging them to stay fit.
Host Retreats and Fun Days
Retreats are a great way to get work done as well as have fun in the process. The day can be divided where the first half is spent working followed by an office dinner and party. Theme days can be selected when employees dress up, play games, etc., which will boost employee morale and create a positive atmosphere at work.
No matter the size of a business, corporate wellness programs can benefit employers and employees equally. ICICI Lombard Health Insurance incentivises and promotes workplace wellness programs by offering wellness points for various activities such as yoga, gym membership, etc.