Workplace wellness is all about balancing mental stress and physical exhaustion in a way that not only keeps up your work enthusiasm but also helps you remain positive throughout the day i.e. in personal life as well. That is why the importance of workplace wellness has been stressed by health experts as it has proved to increase employee productivity and professional engagement to a large extent.
In particular, the post-pandemic workplace environment needs to be set up in a way that it could reflect the ongoing concerns of the employees as health is being prioritized by individuals more than ever before. That is why it has become important to incorporate wellness initiatives in the work environment so that the employees may not only feel safe, but productive as well.
Here are few options which can help the employers and the management to create a healthy workplace atmosphere that will ultimately enhance employee performance and professional interest and engagement:
- Healthy dining options
Eating is important, especially at the workplace. It affects our moods, energy levels, and emotions. Being at work can be stressful so a healthy option of stress-reducing snacks and lighter meals can be a good idea as these can keep the employees happy throughout the work hours. Such dining options can either be offered at the workplace itself or can be set up within 2 miles radius so that it could be easily accessible.
Also, such healthy meals can be given at a reduced price than the normal ones to encourage the employees to opt for these over the unhealthy ones.
- A fragrant and floral environment
According to new research, plants play an important role in promoting a soothing environment that calms the mind and eyes. This can help reduce work-related stress levels along with inculcating a feeling of care and responsibility towards the plants by watering them regularly, for instance. Similarly, a fragrant and colorful natural atmosphere is essential for the mind to work properly in a positive way.
- Frequent sessions to “talk about it”
The environment of fear, jealousy and misunderstanding can damage the chance of success not just on the employee level, but on the overall company level. Thus, the head of the workplace can create an atmosphere where issues related to professional consensus or personal matters can be discussed openly. This will not only work as a therapy session for personal problems but will also encourage loyalty and more friendliness among the colleagues.
- A weekly fitness session
Physical fitness of the employees and the employers is an important part of workplace success. Weekly fitness sessions can be organized to maintain health and remind the employees about the benefits of wellness. This can also work as a stress-relieving session through yoga or meditation options. Each individual can take turns to lead his/her colleagues every week and come up with engaging sessions on their own for more involvement and participation with everyone.
- A pet-friendly environment
Experts suggest that bringing a pet, particularly, a dog to the workplace may reduce stress among the employees. It will not only encourage teamwork and a friendly environment but will also increase employee retention. However, very specific rules and conditions must be given before allowing pets to the workplace.
There are many ways of maintaining a healthy and stress-free work environment without costing too much. It is all about teamwork and efforts to make the workplace a satisfying space rather than a stressful one. Thus, both employees and employers need to plan collectively and act accordingly for a more successful work environment.
