Below, 10 thought leaders spill a few holistic wellness initiatives that employees at their companies enjoy.
Create a place of safety
It is critical for us to build a place of safety for all our stakeholders, where they feel free to show vulnerability, where they care for each other, and where they’re not afraid of failing. We encourage our teammates to speak up if they disagree, with the expectation to bring another idea to the table. Candid conversations on all aspects of the business fosters a culture of trust. We can only succeed if our people’s emotional well-being is addressed day after day.
Derek Lundsten, Life Guides
Values Matter Most
Whatever the initiative, it is important that wellness aligns with the values of a company. Our values are embedded in the way our employees conduct themselves and, while we consider life a work in progress, we continually strive to stay true to our values. Our values will not change from time to time, in varying circumstances, or employee to employee, but rather they serve as the foundation of our culture.
Sundip Patel, AVANA Capital
Group Retreats
As owners and operators of a nature-inspired boutique hotel, we’ve been fortunate to have hosted several group events and retreats for companies. It’s always a joy to welcome a group of people and see them check out days later refreshed, recharged, and relaxed. For any company looking to take their holistic wellness initiatives to the next level, there’s no better retreat than to nature.
Josh Addis, Lake Rabun
Break a Sweat
It might not be feasible to bring Pickleball into your work environment, but it is possible to bring exercise into the culture. Encouraging walks during the day, bringing in a trainer once a week, holding a yoga class outdoors, even supplementing gym memberships are creative ways to encourage exercise among the workforce. And exercise is SO important. It lowers stress and anxiety, helps you focus, and build camaraderie.
Patrick Sullivan Jr., Jigsaw Health
Create Trust With Remote Work
Remote work has become one of the most popular wellness initiatives and perks at many companies. Remote work gives employees the opportunity to experience new environments, thus boosting productivity and creativity. It is also a great way to instill trust in the workplace and promote communication among team members.
Grecia Olachea, Markitors
Prioritize Personal Development
Each day, my company goes through a 3-5 minute video module from a personal development course. Everyone grows together.
Cory Michael Sanchez, Mojo Global
Chair Massages
Chair massage is almost always well received. Beyond the aches and pains we may experience from extended time spent at desks/computers, it also serves to focus the mind on positive thoughts and ideas. I’ve found after these types of sessions, creativity flourishes.
Nicole Spracale, vCandidates
Wellness Checks
Our SEO company asks all employees to take a paid 15-minute break at least every 4 hours for wellness reasons. That may mean a walk in the park, a Zoom call with remote colleagues, or just silent meditation. By encouraging employees to take wellness checks, we’re always able to keep things fresh and thrilling.
Brett Farmiloe, Markitors
Morning Check-Ins
I’m a big fan of check-ins at the beginning of each meeting. This dedicated time allows each member of the team to share what’s on their mind or what’s happening in their life. Carving out dedicated time to be present and truly listen to our teammates is one of the most precious gifts we can give each other.
Brian Mohr, Mohr Impact Group
Brain Performance
One cutting edge holistic wellness initiative that employees have reported as life-changing includes Brain Performance. Twice a week, employees can come into the on-site Brain Performance center, relax and reboot with light and sound therapy, and subtle neuro-response feedback.
Keri Sitrick, Vitanya