According to the Gallup Organization’s latest State of the Global Workplace study, half of American workers say they suffer from stress on a daily basis and 41% say they feel worried daily. Since stress is linked to lower productivity, helping your employees manage their stress levels could have a direct impact on your bottom line.
One easy, low-cost step you can take is providing your team on-the-job access to stress-management tools and techniques.
Mindfulness Meditation for In-the-Moment Relief
A simple and often immediate method of keeping moments of stress from derailing our day is mindfulness meditation. According to the American Psychological Association, mindfulness meditation is a proven way to reduce stress and even help heal the physical ailments it causes.
Mindfulness meditation is a form of meditation that concentrates on attention and acceptance. The general idea is, as soon as we sense that familiar tension, frustration, or anger creep in during the workday, we take a break, close our eyes, and focus our attention on one thing, typically our breathing. Then we simply notice — without judgment or reaction — how the negative feelings are affecting our body and mind. The idea is to eventually let those feelings … simply drift … away. The benefits can be felt in as little as a few minutes.
Although simple in concept, mindfulness meditation is not always easy in practice. The inherent challenge is the ability to slow our racing thoughts and focus on one thing. While that one thing is usually the breath, it can also be something sensory, such as what we hear, smell, touch, or a combination.
Finding a method that works is where a meditation coach comes in. Over the course of a series of sessions, a certified meditation coach can help your team learn techniques that will benefit them in the moment, whenever needed. Over time, the long-term benefits of a mindfulness meditation practice may result in better sleep, less missed work days due to illness, and a generally more attentive, calm, and focused psyche.
Ancient Practices for Contemporary Results
Yoga and tai chi have evolved from ancient spiritual and martial arts practices, respectively, to become 21st-century methods of improving both physical and mental health. Because each involves breath work and slow, intentional body movement and positions, employees can reap the benefits of mindfulness meditation as well. Think of of it as moving meditation. Tai chi, in particular, is often recommended for people of all ages and fitness levels to help improve overall wellbeing.
As with any new activity, it’s important to learn yoga and tai chi from a certified teacher. Your employees could explore the benefits of these ancient practices through on-site, virtual classes or in one-on-one classes.
Offering access to stress-management options can be an easy, low-cost way for you to support your teams’ wellbeing both on and off the job, contributing to a healthier, happier, and more engaged workforce. SimplaFYI has certified, vetted practitioners who can help. Email Kathleen at krepoli@simplafyi.com today to discover our Programs + Services.
Carol Swanson is a health & wellbeing contributor and can be reached at: ceswansoneditorialservices@gmail.com
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