[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Wellness has never been more relvant, and while it has always been a priority to have a healthy and happy staff compliment to drive productivity, corporate companies are now investing more in their staff. Not only does a healthy staff compliment drive productivity but also boosts morale and encourages staff attendace at work. This year, there are various wellness activities to focus on that will help staff to be the best version of themselves. Each wellness day should incorporate a variety of acitvities for staff to engage in. Putting together a wellness calendar to incorporate various wellness elements throughout the year will cover all bases of wellness.
Mental Health Support
Burnout is one of the most common problems in the workplace. A large number of emplyees are working from home and do not “switch off” by leaving the office. Staff are often working longer hours when working remotely, and mental health is at the forefront of a multitude of health concerns. Establishing an awarness for mental health and providing mental health resources such as counseling, support groups and meditation sessions, to yoga and regular massage sessions or breakaway rooms are on the rise.
Remote Work Support
With the rise of remote work, employers are investing in technology that supports the mental and physical well-being of remote workers, such as virtual wellness programs, flexible schedules, and ergonomic equipment such as optimal home work stations and chairs that support good posture.
Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Employers are focusing on creating a more inclusive workplace environment that supports employees of all backgrounds and identities and is free of discrimination and bias.
Holistic Health
Employers are taking a more holistic approach to employee wellness, recognizing that physical health is just one aspect of overall well-being. They are offering wellness programs that address areas such as nutrition, stress management, and sleep hygiene. These are activities and talks that can be included in a wellness day so that staff have the opportunity to ask questions and make small changes to their routines to improve these elements.
Personalization
Wellness programs are becoming more personalized, with employers using data analytics and wearable technology to tailor wellness plans to individual employee needs and preferences.
Mental Health Days
Companies are recognizing the need for employees to take time off for mental health reasons and are offering mental health days as part of their benefits packages.
Financial Wellness Days
According to a News 24 poll conducted in July 2022, 77% of South Africans felt financial stress was affecting their work life, and another 76% believed even their health started to suffer. Women were more financially stressed. Some 36% of respondents were already struggling to pay off all their debt each month, and 15% battled to pay school fees. Hosting a finacial wellness day which helps staff to plan for unexpected expenses, improve budgeting skills and offer debt solutions can aleviate these stressors trememdously.
Social Connection
The importance of social connection for employee well-being helps to build trust in the workplace and strengthen teams. While many people are still working remotely, social wellness can be driven by social interaction through team-building activities, social events, and online communities.
These trends are likely to continue in the coming years as employers focus more on employee well-being, and recognize that a healthy and happy workforce is essential for a productive and successful business.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
