Eight Strategies to Improve Workplace Wellness

We’ve all come across statistics showing the impact of employee-wellness on the bottom line of every company. Over the last few years, increasing awareness on the need of workplace wellness has caused more than 70 per cent of companies to include wellness programs in their agenda. But how successful have these programs been? Despite measurable results, gamified apps and all the other bells and whistles promised by wellness providers, has it really made an impact on the health, productivity and happiness of employees?

Recent statistics claim that truly successful programs, if implemented right, can increase an employee’s physical activity by 50 per cent, decrease medical costs and absenteeism by 17 per cent, and improve employee engagement by 59 per cent, on an average.

This being the case, here are some simple, holistic strategies for enhanced workplace wellness. The more of these we apply, better the vitality at the workplace. Whether you are an employer or employee, requesting for these changes at office can give the workplace a huge energy boost.

Air-quality Indoors

Corporate employees spend 90 per cent of time indoors. This has a massive impact on their mental and physical health. Human beings require plenty of fresh air and sunlight to thrive. Indoor air quality can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor, owing to a build-up of carbon dioxide, air-conditioning, humidification, toxic detergents and furnishing products, etc. To make the workplace healthier and more cheerful:

Include balconies, open workspaces, operable windows and situate plants wherever possible
Ensure that the cleaning-staff use non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning agents
Regular maintenance of air-conditioning and humidifying systems, which should ideally come with energy-star ratings
Encourage employees to take an outdoor walk during lunch hours or break-times.

Ergonomic Furniture

Musculoskeletal and orthopaedic disorders account for 70 per cent of health issues at the workplace. Nearly everyone in a corporate setting experiences back or neck pain, knee pain and joint pains, which tremendously compromises the quality of life. This also has an impact on blood circulation, which can have negative effects on organ health. The importance of switching to ergonomic furniture is extremely important.

Ensure that computer/laptop tables and chairs are ergonomically adjusted – so that the screen is at eye-level, and armrests are at the keyboard-level. Cushions should be used where necessary.
“Active furniture” can be facilitated – stability balls, standing-desks, etc., can be arranged around the office for employees to use.

Mandate Movement

The human anatomy is not made for constant sitting. We are built for movement. The more active we are, healthier and happier we will be.

Incorporate a short walk around the office once every hour. It gives your over-stressed eyes a break, releases muscles and boosts circulation. Take the stairs whenever possible. Perform 20 squats every time you visit the restroom. Think of creative ways to move.
Stretch frequently
Install play-booths such as table tennis or gym-spaces in the office. This can be a great stress-buster too.

Ambience

It is a well-known scientific fact that our environment can elevate or depress our mood and

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