by Jane Sandwood
Absenteeism and underperforming at work led to a staggering loss of $8.5 trillion due to mental health conditions. An additional $8.3 trillion in losses was also attributed to cardiovascular problems. These productivity issues at work could be minimized if corporations have wellness programs, such as yoga for employees, in place.
The fast-paced nature of the corporate world is that is places undue stress on its workers. With numerous demands on results, quality, productivity, and performance, it is of little wonder why employees are burning out. Fortunately, yoga can help businesses and employees get out of the rut they unwittingly find themselves stuck in.
Yoga is often associated with, weight loss, fitness and exercise. However, it is more than that. Yoga is an ancient technique rooted in Hindu teachings. The practice teaches controlled breathing, while assuming various postures, and encouraging mental discipline.
Benefits of Yoga in a Corporate Setting
Businesses that provide yoga sessions at the workplace can expect to see better employee performance, higher productivity, and lower turnover rates with relationships and interactions also been seen to improve. An increase in the ability to concentrate is also noted among employees who practice yoga.
Stress relief is probably yoga’s most important benefit at the office. Employees who spend most of their time sitting at work could experience various health problems. When stress at work is reduced, health insurance premiums that companies pay are also reduced.
The average amount businesses pay for medical costs per employee is $14,000 annually, but offering yoga sessions in corporations can reduce this number remarkably. With lower premiums to pay, corporations see an increase in their profit margins too.
How Yoga Improves Workplace Relationships
Yoga sessions are found to enhance alpha brain waves. A study revealed that after doing Kriya yoga classes for 2 hours, the alpha waves responsible for relaxation increased to 40 percent. When employees are relaxed, they are more likely to be receptive to others’ opinions. With this type of effective communication, conflicts can be ironed out.
Instead of worrying about their jobs, yoga helps workers to control mental and emotional factors. With less burdens on their shoulders, employees become a more positive force at work. Consequently, morale in the office is enhanced too.
A more relaxed environment translates to happier employees. It also boosts the employee’s confidence in getting the job done. This newly found confidence will be evident in how employees interact with each other. Relationships can be smoother and less demanding since jobs are completed quickly. There will be less friction and no more blame games.
The mental, emotional, physical, social, and even financial benefits of yoga at the workplace are hard to overlook. Companies that provide yoga to employees are reaping these positive results. With practically zero risks involved, yoga provides optimal value to businesses and employees, particularly in promoting better workplace relationships. Yoga can make a difference in the company’s bottom line too.