| "the best conduits for general health awareness. Workplace wellness expert Tom Gilliam, Ph.D., reminds employers that, "If you pay health insurance for your employees, keeping your employees healthy is your business." Lower health costs, a more productive work force and an energized working atmosphere are good for the bottom line. Any employer who has not already done so should consider getting or expanding support for healthier lifestyles for the employees. " " Employees do not get off the hook, however. There is a lot of power in collective consciousness. Establishing a receptive mindset for healthier lifestyles is the petri dish for positive change. Employees can put out a suggestion box or put a wish list on a bulletin board regarding activities in which they would like to participate. " " Workers can decide among themselves what sort of treats (candy, cookies, etc. vs. healthier fare) can be brought " " For this to be effective, there must be a coordinated effort between all echelons at the work place or more — not less — stress will be the result. Health and wellness programs should uplift and encourage, not humiliate or rebuke. No one should feel singled out for participating or not participating. " " Also, there need to be plenty of options so that no one is excluded because of age, disability, body type or fitness level. " " Following are "Ten Reasons to Encourage Fitness in the Workplace" by motivational speaker and certified personal trainer Bob Doyle (posted at " " -Have more self-confidence. Once someone can prove to themselves that they can accomplish a better level of fitness, they feel empowered to strive for higher levels of achievement in the workplace. " " -Inspire confidence. People who maintain higher fitness levels tend to be people in whom others have confidence. " " -Set and achieve goals. Getting fit requires focus, planning and the skill to bring a project to completion, all good assets for any organization. " " -Tend to have better attitudes. People with good exercise and eating habits tend to support a more positive attitude in the workplace. " " -As an employee base, present excellent team-building ... read the whole article |