More than two-thirds of U.S. employers offer wellness programs for their employees, while every dollar invested in corporate wellness generates a $1.50 return on investment. Why are these programs so popular? A good wellness plan improves employee morale, boosts productivity and lowers absenteeism. Here are 13 ideas that you can incorporate into your next wellness program.
1. Provide Healthy Snacks
Research shows that healthy meals improve employee wellness. Foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains are full of nutrients, fiber and protein, and they keep your employees feeling great throughout the working day. The American Heart Association has a list of heart-healthy snacks that your staff will enjoy.
2. Promote Fitness at Work
Regular exercise reduces stress, says the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Physical activity produces endorphins — the brain's feel-good chemical — which acts as a natural painkiller and mood booster.
3. Negotiate Employee Discounts for Gym Memberships
Reduced gym membership fees could encourage your staff to exercise more and improve their well-being. Talk to health clubs in your area about special rates for local businesses.
4. Evaluate Wellness Online
The Well-Being Index is an interactive tool that measures employee well-being. Initially developed by the Mayo Clinic, the online test is used by employers across the country.
5. Participate in Take Your Dog to Work Day
Take Your Dog to Work Day happens every June. Research shows that dogs reduce stress, decrease blood pressure, and lower cortisol levels.
6. Remind Your Employees to Get Flu Shots
The antibodies in seasonal flu shots prevent employees from getting sick, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Provide staff with information about where to get a flu vaccine.
7. Invest in Ergonomic Chairs
Ergonomic chairs prevent and relieve pain in the shoulders and back. Invest in this furniture to improve the wellness of your team.
8. Encourage Staff to Get an Eye Test
Adults spend eight hours a day in front of a screen, one study found. Sitting in front of a computer for hours on end could damage employees' eyes, so provide them with information about where to get an eye test.
9. Organize Social Events
Social events outside of the working environment could encourage your employees to form new relationships. As a result, this could lower stress at work and improve productivity.
10. Encourage Employees to Cycle to Work
Cycling to work is a much better option than driving a car. A 150 lb person cycling at less than 10 miles per hour burns 90 calories in 20 minutes.
11. Add a Splash of Color to Your Workplace
Making a few design tweaks in your workplace — like incorporating plants into your office or painting the walls — could have a positive impact on employees' mental health. If redecorating the office isn't in the plans, give each employee a stipend to get a little something for their desk area.
12. Create a Wellness Newsletter
A wellness newsletter packed full of healthy living tips is a great way to communicate with your employees and improve well-being.
13. Provide Employees With Feedback
Providing your employees with regular feedback on their performance could enhance their well-being. It could also benefit your business: Research shows that useful feedback boosts productivity by as much as 16 percent.
Employee wellness has become a massive concern for employers in almost every niche. Seventy-four percent of large companies now offer wellness opportunities for their staff. Use the 13 tips on this list to create your own wellness plan that benefits everyone in your workplace.
The Well-Being Index team is made up of thought leaders, healthcare associates, technology experts, and content creators dedicated to improving well-being by equipping organizations with the tools and data needed to Go Beyond Burnout.