ANN/THE DAILY STAR – In today’s fast-paced world, our sedentary lifestyles and the growing dominance of desk jobs have blurred the boundaries between work and personal life.
Prioritising mental and emotional well-being is no longer just a personal goal – it’s a crucial business strategy.
A renowned yogini, author, and co-founder of Dhaka Flow Shazia Omar, highlighted the increasing importance of fostering a healthy and supportive workplace. Citing a Harvard study on Johnson & Johnson’s wellness initiatives, she emphasised the transformative benefits of such programmes, including enhanced productivity, reduced absenteeism, improved employee loyalty and focus, and significant financial savings through lower healthcare costs.
“Investing in mental and physical well-being not only saves money, but also boosts employee productivity,” she said. This insight aligns with the finding that mental health issues are often more debilitating than physical ailments, underscoring the need for comprehensive wellness strategies in the workplace.
Physical well-being is essential not only for personal health but also for maintaining energy and focus in all areas of life. Omar stressed the importance of returning to holistic practices like yoga and meditation, which have been proven to prevent illness and maintain optimal health.
“Yoga chikitsa, or yoga therapy, is seen as a cure for a range of conditions from diabetes to depression,” she explained. This approach not only helps in managing existing conditions but also in preventing them, which can significantly reduce healthcare costs over time. To foster a culture of health, Omar suggested that employers should integrate not just physical activities but also meditation, nutrition, and mental health support into their wellness programmes. For instance, incorporating daily yoga sessions, even brief ones like 10-minute chair yoga, can prevent physical ailments such as neck and shoulder pain.
Regarding nutrition, Omar advocates for providing healthier meal options that are cost-effective yet nutritious, leveraging local resources like vegetables and eggs.
“Healthy food doesn’t have to be expensive,” she said, emphasising the importance of avoiding junk food, which can be detrimental to health.
In terms of mental health, she highlighted the necessity of addressing traumas and providing therapeutic support, suggesting that employers offer counselling and create spaces for open discussions. This can enhance community feeling and help resolve internal team conflicts more efficiently. – Ayman Anika
