Relaxation and work do not seem like two words that go hand-in-hand, but they should. If you have a staff that is overworked or under a large amount of stress, their productivity could significantly decrease. It benefits your company as a whole to promote relaxation or mini-breaks throughout the day to encourage your employees to recharge, even if it is just for a few minutes, as it could have a significant impact on the rest of their day and help them to lower a potential health risk in their own lives.
Easy Ways to Relax
Encouraging your employees to relax at work does not mean providing them with a blanket and pillow and having nap time; instead, it means giving them the means to take their eyes off of the computer screen or their head away from a stressful situation, and allowing their mind to wander for a few short minutes. A few easy ways to do so include:
· Get some fresh air – Whether you give your employees 15 minutes or so to take a quick walk around the building, or they take five short minutes to step outside to soak up the sun and breathe in some fresh air, they will likely come back feeling more creative and stimulated to be productive
· Decrease the clutter – If you notice that your employees’ desks are starting to look like Mt. Everest, it is time to encourage decluttering. The simple task of removing the excess paperwork, notes, and gadgets on their desks will help them to feel less stressed and more able to focus on their task at hand. All it takes is 15 minutes at a time to feel more empowered and less stressed.
· Play soft music – Soft, relaxed music is a great way to help employees feel relaxed and more creative, even while sitting at their desk. If you are able to broadcast the music throughout the office, choose one that is calming or soothing, rather than over-stimulating for the senses.
· Eat healthy snacks – Snacking on sugary, processed foods is not conducive to your employee’s health and wellness, or their ability to focus. When the snack craving hits, encourage the consumption of healthy foods that provide the necessary vitamins and minerals that will provide the body with the fuel which it needs to push through the work day.
Be your employee’s advocate when it comes to de-stressing and feeling good about themselves. Work is important, but when it begins to weigh a person down, causing their productivity to falter, it does not do anyone any good. Taking a few minutes for themselves every day is a great way to get your employees back on track, and your productivity levels where you want them to be.
