3 Ways to Improve Workplace Wellness & Productivity

As you know, the words “healthy workplace” have multiple meanings, spanning from physical to psychological and emotional well-being. No or low levels of colds and flu is always preferred and a healthy environment of staff engagement, support and productivity are what we strive for on any given day.

For most employees, the summer months are the most revered, especially in Minnesota. But, it also can be a time of distraction, increased vacation time, and in some cases, lower productivity from all of the above.

Happy employees make productive team players and work, so promoting health and happiness among your staff is a good investment of time and money. According to the Center for Disease Control, poor workplace conditions lead to stress and other risk factors that contribute to health problems, such as abnormal weight fluctuations, sleep disorders, cardiovascular disease and depression. Therefore, they offer these tips for improving workplace wellness:

1. Walk and Talk and Picnic Table Meetings

Take your one-on-one meetings outside this summer with a walk in the park or around the block. And, seek out a picnic table for meetings with multiple colleagues.

2. Allow time and/or equipment for exercise

Encourage taking breaks in the summer sun and/or provide some exercise equipment, such as a treadmill desk. Research studies show that walking for at least 30 minutes a day can help prevent heart disease, blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis and even cancer, along with improving mental health.

3. Provide an onsite kitchen

A place to store and prepare healthy lunches. Include eating areas that attract people away from their desks.

Health-focused workplace programs, policies and environments can significantly benefit employers, employees, their families, and their communities.

Published on: July 25, 2016