Top Wellness Trends In The Workplace

Image Credit: Soothe

The term ‘well-being’ is multidimensional, encompassing more than just one’s physical being —  mental and financial health are two crucial components that also impact one's overall well-being. One of the many effects of the pandemic is that overall wellness is near the top of most employees' agenda, and Corporate America is catching on. 

As the world shifts to work-from-home, it’s evident that the workplace has seen the most drastic changes since the pandemic began. However, with this adjustment, the lines between personal and professional life have blurred. Therefore, the new conversation centers on developing healthy boundaries between work, relationships, health, and leisure. 

With that being said, wellness-focused employers will go the furthest in terms of retention rates and engagement. It’s no longer a luxury and is now an expectation for a company to implement strategies and provide benefits that boost wellness in the workplace. Not only will this keep your team around for the long haul, but it will also promote productivity, efficiency, and an overall healthy environment.  

Many wellness benefits and strategies can target an individual's mental and physical well-being, whereas some are specifically tailored to one. Premium benefit programs like EXEC help with employee well-being by providing discounts to popular brands and services that cater to health and wellness.

Physical Health

Physical and mental health are closely interconnected and can significantly impact each other. Employers can play a role in promoting and supporting the physical health of their employees by implementing some of the following strategies:

• Ergonomic Workplace: Considering the number of hours employees spend at the desk, maintaining their physical health by ensuring workstations are ergonomically designed to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and posture issues. This can include providing adjustable chairs, sit-stand desks, proper lighting, and ventilation. 
• Encourage Physical Activity: Whether providing a yoga room in the office or membership to private pilates classes, encouraging physical activity at an individual pace is a great way to maintain one’s physical health. 
• ClassPass: With this benefit, members can access thousands of studios, gyms, salons, and spas. It allows individuals to attend whichever class they prefer whenever they’d like. 

EXEC Members receive discounted monthly plans. 

• SPARBAR: This unique benefit can bring boxing into a home gym, allowing them to spar without a partner. It’s an excellent stress reliever while also promoting physical activity. 

EXEC Members receive preferential prices sitewide. 

• Healthy Eating: Between corporate dinner and drinks, group Uber Eats orders for lunch, and the inevitable snacking throughout the day, nutritious food options in the workplace can be sparse. Show your employees that their physical health is a priority by offering nutrient-dense and vitamin-packed selections in the office. In addition, get to know your employees with dietary restrictions or food allergies to ensure they also have options. 

Mental Health

Leaders can create a supportive environment for the mental health of their employees by promoting open communication, providing support resources, and fostering a positive work culture. These strategies are some of the most requested benefits in the workplace to boost well-being: 

• Paid Mental Health Days: How can employees care for their mental health when they’ve got families to feed, bills to pay, and immense financial responsibility? Paid time off for mental health days is essential and should not be conflated with regular sick days. 
• Mental Health Benefits: Supporting your staff by incorporating mental health benefits is critical. Whether it’s stress management classes or therapy sessions, provide your team with the resources and open lines of communication when needed. 
• Calmerry: This is an excellent tool for anyone looking for therapy but unsure of where to start. It offers access to a personalized licensed and verified therapist anytime, with virtual and text options available to suit any schedule. 

EXEC Members receive discounted subscription rates. 

• Soothe: Sometimes, all one needs is a break from reality and a massage. Soothe is a must-have benefit for your team, offering members the world’s largest on-demand wellness platform with other services, such as haircare, skincare, and beauty. 

EXEC Members receive discounted rates on all services. 

Read more here for a more detailed dive into supporting your team’s mental well-being.

Financial Health

Often, one’s financial situation will take a massive toll on their physical and mental health. Whether it’s credit card bills, student loans, or a hefty mortgage, providing your employees with the resources and assistance they need to mitigate these stressors can benefit both employees and the organization. 

• Compensation: Offering competitive salaries and benefits packages is the primary way to support employees' financial health. It can include offering good health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks, like EXEC. 
• Student Loan Repayment: Student loan repayment programs or tuition reimbursement are two high-value benefits. Not only does it help manage financial situations, but it also shows that businesses encourage and advocate for continued education and personal growth. 
• Educational Resources: Financial literacy is essential to one’s financial health. Provide your team access to financial advisors, counselors, and courses about money management, debt repayment, and retirement planning. 

Conclusion

Overall, there are numerous different strategies that organizations can use to support the financial, mental, and physical health of their employees. By taking a holistic approach and considering the various factors that can impact everyone’s well-being, companies can create a healthy and supportive work environment that helps everyone succeed.