What’s up with workplace wellbeing? | IMPAC health and safety

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Workplace wellbeing is something we’re passionate about here at IMPAC. We believe as much emphasis needs to be placed on ‘health’ as ‘safety’.

It’s a busy time of year — schools have all gone back, autumn has arrived, and we can no longer blame a lack of productivity on too much sun over the holidays.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t press pause during the workday. In fact, we agree with studies that recommend you press pause several times.

Now would be a good time to invest in an office plant. Photo by Sarah Dorweiler on Unsplash

Here are 3 ways to look after your wellbeing at work

1. Go for a walk out of the office. Get your legs moving and some fresh air into your lungs. Studies show just five minutes of exercise in a park, on a nature trail, or other green space will benefit mental health. If you can’t get to the nearest park at lunch time, at least take a walk around the block. The key here is being outside.
   
   On busy days with deadlines looming, this can seem easier said than done. But why not take your phone with you and make a few calls while you walk? Or turn that sit-down meeting into a walking one? 
   
   
2. Take your breaks. According to Employment New Zealand, “Employees must have rest and meal breaks or reasonable compensation if they don’t.” We’re not indestructible — storming through the workday without a breather is not sustainable. 
   
   It can be hard to stick to your breaks if no one around you is taking theirs, so talk to your colleagues about regular pauses. At IMPAC, we like any excuse to have a whole-of-office morning tea. Gather the team around a pile of fruit and a few muffins for 10 minutes in the morning, and I guarantee your day will be more productive.  
   
   
3. Chat to your colleagues. Make time in your day to talk to the people around you. Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand says, “At work, having good relationships with colleagues helps us stay motivated and engaged.” 
   
   Don’t be a stranger to the people you work next to. When you know your colleagues better, you’ll look forward to spending time with each other while you do your jobs. Connecting with the people around us is crucial for wellbeing. 

Team work makes the dream work. Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash

The alternative is expensive

In 2016, New Zealand lost 6.6 million working days due to absence and staff being unwell, at a cost of $1.51 billion, according to Southern Cross Health Society. Practice wellness and look after yourself at work, and your business will thank you. 

Employee’s mental wellbeing is one of the most valuable assets of a business. Let us know what you’re doing to bring wellness into your workplace