Employee disengagement is a growing concern in today’s workplace, with recent data from Gallup revealing that 80% of employees worldwide are either disengaged or not engaged at work. This lack of engagement not only affects productivity but also impacts overall workplace morale and satisfaction. As HR and Employee Wellbeing professionals, finding effective solutions to improve staff engagement is crucial. One innovative approach that has shown promising results is offering yoga as a company perk.
The Cost Employee Disengagement
Employee disengagement is a significant issue affecting businesses worldwide. Disengaged employees cost the global economy an estimated $7.8 trillion annually, according to Gallup's State of the Global Workplace report. This financial burden stems from decreased productivity, higher turnover rates, and lower overall workplace morale. For businesses, the implications are clear: addressing disengagement is not just a matter of employee satisfaction, but also a crucial factor in maintaining profitability and competitive advantage.
Why Traditional Perks Are Losing Their Appeal
In the past, companies have tried to combat disengagement with perks like free snacks, gym memberships, and game rooms. However, as the BBC reports, many of these perks are becoming obsolete, especially in the wake of the pandemic and the rise of remote work. Employees are looking for more meaningful benefits that align with their personal values and contribute to their overall wellbeing.
This shift in priorities is where yoga comes into play. Offering yoga sessions as a perk not only addresses physical health but also supports mental and emotional wellbeing, making it a holistic approach to improving staff engagement.
How Yoga Can Improve Staff Engagement
Yoga is much more than just a physical activity. The word 'yoga' itself means 'to unite', reflecting its aim to bring balance to both body and mind. In today’s landscape, this approach is more essential than ever to improve staff engagement. We often see a disconnect where some focus intensely on body aesthetics, while others neglect their physical health entirely, spending endless hours sitting at a desk. Yoga’s holistic approach helps bridge this gap, reminding us that true wellbeing comes from nurturing both body and mind in harmony.
Tailored Yoga Solutions for Every Team
To accommodate different teams and their specific needs, yoga can be offered in two flexible formats:
1. Office Chair Yoga for Busy Teams
For teams with limited time, "office chair yoga" is an excellent option. These quick, 15-minute sessions can be done right at the desk, requiring no special equipment or change of clothes. It’s an easy way to integrate movement and mindfulness into the workday without disrupting productivity.
2. Yoga for Corporates, for Deeper Engagement
For companies looking to offer a more in-depth experience, "yoga for corporates" sessions provide a comprehensive approach to employee wellbeing. These sessions can be scheduled before or after work, or before lunch breaks, offering employees a chance to fully disconnect from work and reconnect with themselves.
Building a Culture of Engagement Through Yoga
By integrating yoga into your workplace wellness initiatives, you’re not just offering a perk—you’re building a culture of engagement and wellbeing. Yoga supports both individual and team health, leading to happier, more motivated employees. This proactive approach to staff wellbeing can significantly reduce employee disengagement, improving overall performance and job satisfaction.
Take the First Step Toward a More Engaged Workforce
👉 If you’re ready to explore how yoga can transform your workplace and improve staff engagement, I invite you to book a free discovery call. Together, we can design a yoga initiative tailored to your team’s unique needs, whether it’s quick office chair yoga sessions or more immersive mat-based classes. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more engaged workplace.
