People often ask me ‘Why corporate yoga’? My answer is simply that it’s a ‘win–win’ for everyone involved. Regular yoga classes show your employees that the company cares about their health and well-being. Other benefits include improved work performance, better relationships between colleagues, a more relaxed work environment and increased productivity. In terms of health, reduce the number of sick days, and stretch out necks, shoulders and backs that are sore from sitting at a desk all day.
Studies have consistently demonstrated the many benefits that yoga offers. Here are some of the advantages of a regular yoga practice:
Reduce:
- stress and/or anxiety
- blood pressure
- blood sugar
- neck/shoulder/back pain
- sickness (by boosting immunity)
- cortisol (stress hormone) levels
- cartilage and joint breakdown
- pain from injuries
Improve:
- flexibility and balance
- energy levels
- muscular strength and tone
- cardiac health and circulation
- core strength
- posture
- bone health (increases bone density)
- digestive issues (twists are helpful here!)
- sleep
- concentration
- confidence
- self-awareness
- sensitivity and patience
- relationships
- breathing (becomes less shallow)
- athletic performance
- overall health
So what’s the next step if you think that your office may be interested in yoga classes? I’ve found several good ways of gauging interest depending on the size and structure of the company.
- Talk to the person who handles Health and Wellness for employees and see if there is scope in the company health programme for yoga classes.
- Send out a group email to everyone in your office with a link to this website to see if they’re interested.
- Ask the social club to organise classes as a social event.
Studies have also shown that long-term, consistent practice can make you happier! As I said, it’s a win–win for everyone.