There are many activities that organizations might consider implementing to increase workplace wellness
Canadian employers are starting to recognize the value of human capital. The theory goes, “If we look after them, they’ll look after us.” It means that employers who invest in worker wellness are seeing returns in the form of:
|
|
There is a saying that a healthy body houses a healthy mind.
Science can back that up.
Science can back that up.
Activities for Workplace Wellness
There are many activities that organizations might consider implementing to increase workplace wellness. Like most programs, a tailored program that speaks to your company’s specific needs is best. Wellness is the result of a balance between mind and body, so be sure that your organization’s wellness program focuses on both.
Fitness Programs
There is a saying that a healthy body houses a healthy mind. Science can back that up. It’s been shown that exercise releases endorphins, which are the brain’s feel-good hormones. Exercise and fitness also help combat obesity. In Canada, over 45,000 people die from conditions related to obesity each year. Many employers offer drug and dental benefits, but they neglect to add a benefit to allow workers to address fitness needs. Fitness programs in the workplace can take many forms, such as:
|
Ergonomic Wellness Programs
Ergonomic programs aren’t just for office workers. In fact, physical labour roles require as much ergonomic support as seated roles. Twisting, bending, lifting, and reaching all take a toll on the body, as does sitting. An ergonomic wellness program can take many forms, such as:
Book Ergonomics Train the Trainer Today! |
Nutrition Programs
Workplace nutrition programs can take various forms, and they don’t always mean good nutrition. Sometimes a nutrition program is simply accessible food, which is still beneficial to worker wellness. Some workplaces offer on-site food services. Other workplaces try to support good nutrition through education and resources. While your organization certainly doesn’t have to do both, a nutrition program in the workplace may include some of the following elements:
|
On-site Massage and Stretching Programs
Sometimes work can be stressful; it doesn’t matter what line of work you’re in! Some organizations bring on-site registered massage therapists to the workplace to offer massages to workers in need. It increases relaxation and can help to reduce stress. Massage therapy has been shown to help reverse the effects of using a poor posture at desks. Alternatively, if massages aren’t practical, try stretch breaks. Stretch breaks can take place two or three times throughout the day.
|
EAPs and Other Benefits
Many organizations offer health and dental benefits for workers and their families. While these account for basic health needs, they aren’t enough. Coverage needs to be including for mental health needs, such as therapy and medications. Consider adding an EAP as well. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) look after mental health. EAPs are a crucial part of an employee wellness program. They give workers, and usually their families, access to:
Helping workers deal with big life problems effectively means that they’ll be more focused on the job, which affects productivity, workplace safety, and the employee’s job satisfaction and overall happiness and wellness. |
Invest in Workplace Wellness
There’s always a desire to see a positive ROI (Return on Investment) for business expenditures. When it comes to workplace wellness programs, the ROI can be measured by examining employee engagement, productivity, and general job satisfaction. As well, wellness programs increase retention, and they can be powerful recruitment tools. Worker wellness programs can |
Trust MidSouthWest Training and Consulting
MidSouthWest Training and Consulting offers online Fitness and Wellness training. You can trust MidSouthWest Training and Consulting to provide you with cost-effective training solutions tailored to meet your organization’s unique health and safety needs.
To ask questions, contact us online or call 289.309.1143. Visit us 24/7 on the web at midsouthwest.ca.
To ask questions, contact us online or call 289.309.1143. Visit us 24/7 on the web at midsouthwest.ca.
Last updated September 9, 2021