What does that morning yoga class, the nutrition program or the flexible schedule have to do with the juicy contract your company closed last month to expand its operations? Much more than you might imagine. As CEOs and human resources managers become increasingly aware, the well-being of your team is directly linked to the health of the company. Implementing wellness initiatives can therefore be seen as a mutually beneficial strategy – a true win-win situation.
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) defines wellness as the “active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles,” with a holistic approach that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and environmental health.
In its report “Health, Happiness, and Economic Well-Being: Empirical Analysis,” the organization reveals that “there is a statistically significant correlation between workplace wellness, happiness, and health.” Employees who participate in these types of programs are more motivated, have more energy, and are more creative. They also have a better ability to manage stress and work as a team.
One of the main benefits of implementing wellness programs in a company is the reduction of stress. By offering meditation or yoga sessions, companies can help their employees lower their level of burnout and improve their emotional well-being.
Según la the World Health Organization, a workplace that doesn’t take into account the mental well-being of employees can lead to both physical and mental health problems. At the same time, it can provoke inappropriate use of alcohol and other substances, absenteeism, and ultimately a decrease in productivity. It is estimated that the most common mental disorders such as depression and anxiety are responsible for the productivity loss that costs the global economy approximately $1 trillion annually.
Another contribution of wellness programs is the improvement in employee retention. Employees who feel valued and supported by their company are more likely to stay in their job, as they tend to feel more connected to their colleagues and the company as a whole.
Deloitte’s report, “Designing work for well-being,” cites that 95% of the human resources leaders surveyed for the study agree that burnout syndrome impacts employee retention, and that workers with higher levels of well-being are more likely to feel engaged in their work, enjoy their job, and recommend the organization they work for.
Some of the most effective strategies include:
Encouraging physical activity: This can be done through group classes like Pilates, yoga, and fit boxing, providing access to gyms, or engaging in team activities like soccer, basketball, or CrossFit.
Promoting healthy eating: Offering varied and healthy food options is a key factor in the physical and mental health of employees, which goes hand in hand with educating workers about the importance of a balanced diet.
Offering mental health services: Services such as therapy, meditation, or mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety, and improve the mental health of workers.
Flexibility in work: Offering flexible or hybrid work options can increase job satisfaction for workers.
Having open communication: Open and transparent communication among employees can help improve the work environment and reduce stress.
Wellness initiatives not only have benefits for the health and well-being of employees, but they can also be an important tool in attracting and retaining foreign investors, thanks to the high productivity that human talent brings, which in the long run translates into greater economic success. This adds to the growing trend of multinational companies that include wellness standards for their employees and expect their suppliers and business partners to implement these types of initiatives.
At AFZ, we know that the well-being of our team and our customers translates into a healthier and more prosperous business community. That’s why we’ve focused on making the AFZ experience a wellness experience. Classes and sports facilities, recreational spaces, artistic shows, green areas, bike paths, and free electric-assist bicycles are part of our initiatives to promote the holistic health of our population.
Contact us at info@afz.cr for more information on our strategies.
