It goes without saying that employee wellness is vital to the success of any organization. While overall wellness is impacted in part by diet and exercise choices made away from the workplace, workplace design can – and should – support greater wellness for team members. Office design that supports wellness can have many benefits that go straight to the bottom line, as improved employee health can reduce stress and increase productivity, worthy goals for any organization.

Perhaps the most important step an employer can take to support physical wellness is to prioritize ergonomics in their office design. This might include providing adjustable desks and chairs, encouraging regular movement and breaks, and promoting good posture. Providing ergonomic equipment, such as standing desks and supportive office chairs, can help to prevent common physical complaints such as neck, back, and eye strain. Encouraging employees to take regular breaks and stretch throughout the day can also help to reduce physical discomfort and boost energy levels.

There’s more to wellness in office design than ergonomic furniture, though. Factors as diverse as plenty of natural light, flexible spaces that allow for private or group work, and plants and greenery have all been shown to have positive effects on wellness and productivity.

Employers should also do their best to encourage physical activity. This can include offering on-site fitness classes, promoting active transportation options, such as biking or walking to work, and creating spaces for employees to take breaks and move around, such as a break room with a ping pong table or a walking path. Many health insurance plans offer deep discounts on gym memberships, or include stress management or other mental wellness programs. Employers should make sure team members are aware of these benefits when available.

And employers can also promote healthy eating habits by providing nutritious food options in their cafeterias or break rooms. This might include offering fresh fruits and vegetables in addition to (or instead of) the standard high-fat, high-sugar vending machine fare. The same principle applies to encouraging employees to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks.

Finally, mental and emotional wellness tends to be greater in workplaces that promote a positive and supportive culture. This is a more complex undertaking than choosing ergonomic furniture, of course. Companies that foster a welcoming and inclusive work environment, encourage open and respectful communication, and provide opportunities for professional development and growth typically retain team members at a much higher rate than those that don’t. That’s a very important consideration in the age of the Great Resignation and ‘quiet quitting.’

Supporting wellness in the workplace can take many different forms, and can have numerous benefits for employees and employers alike. By prioritizing ergonomics, promoting a positive work culture, encouraging physical activity, and promoting healthy eating habits, employers can create a work environment that supports the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their employees.

Ready to learn more about designing for wellness in the workplace? Contact Office Images.