Whether its you or someone you know, when the New Year rolls around everyone seems to have resolutions aimed at a healthier and more productive lifestyle. This "New Year, New Me" effect falls away before February for most people, but here at Ltd Limited we're trying to stick to our resolutions. We're trying to exercise more, eat healthier, and the smokers have even given up too!
We collected together some of our ideas of how to make a working environment a healthier place.
1) Flower Power - Research indicates that indoor plants help reduce stress, they don't really know why, but you should definitely consider adding some greenery to your office. The best office plants are resilient and low maintenance. Otherwise someone will have to be on hand to tend to them regularly.
2) Natural Light - Natural light makes everyone feel better. It brightens up a glum environment, protects peoples vision and keeps employees productive. If you don't have windows, consider a skylight or even holding brainstorming exercises in the summer sun. Vitamin D is important for the body.
3) Walk on By - Scientists believe sitting in front of a computer all day has a negative effects on your short and long-term health. Make sure everyone can have regular breaks and walk around during the day, no one wants a team of slouching hunchbacks!
4) Healthy Treats - In a lot of working environments there is always an excuse for bringing in a cake or some other delicious treat, it can become an almost weekly occurrence. Healthy snacks such as nuts, fruit, popcorn, soups and porridge can be used to increase employees energy levels without increasing their waistline. This is not to say treats can't be sweet, it's just that moderation is the key.
5) Sleeping on the Job - It may be unconventional but there is research to suggest allowing employees to nap for a period increases productivity. Rested employees are far more productive and make better decision than the sleep deprived. Many companies are catching onto this and it is widespread in places like Japan. Better to have a rested employee than someone propping themselves up at their desk.
6) Take a Break - Everyone's work style is different. However, it can't be emphasised enough how important breaks from stressful tasks can be. A break allows someone to decompress and handle the stresses they face. A brief stint of exercise can have a very beneficial effect on a work force, so maybe organise a lunchtime squash match or encourage gym membership.
7) Encourage Bike Storage - Offering bike storage is a great way to allow people to commute by bike. Biking to the office has a number of environment and health benefits, its a definitely worth encouraging this practice whenever possible.
8) Team Competition and Activities - Whether you put a table tennis or fussball table in the office, it encourages your team to get up from their desks and clear their minds. Its also a great idea to encourage employees to showcase their passions, if you have someone who passionate about yoga, get them to help the team distress with a few sessions.
Have you got your own ideas on creating a healthier working environment? Let us know your ideas, we're always open to new ones.
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