Electrozad News and Updates

Learning how to breathe when stressed at work.

Sep 5, 2023 12:37:19 PM / by Monique Scott

Electrozad hosts Mediation and Breathwork sessions to enhance Employee Well-Being.

The modern workplace is often a hub of relentless activity, tight deadlines, and mounting pressure. The resulting stress can lead to a host of negative effects on both employee well-being and overall organizational productivity. As we strive to create healthier and more productive work environment, integrating science-backed techniques like meditation and breathwork is an accessible solution for mitigating employee stress and enhancing mental health.

In an effort to offer our people a healthy and balanced environment, we welcomed instructors across all our branches to lead staff in mindfulness, stress-reducing sessions.

The Shala Windsor - blog
 Ashley and Anna of The Shala Yoga & Meditation Studio who led our Windsor staff through an impactful and informative workshop.

 

The Mind-Body-Stress Connection

The intricate connection between the mind and body is increasingly recognized as pivotal in understanding how stress affects us. Stress doesn't merely manifest in our thoughts; it also impacts our physical health. Chronic stress can disrupt the body's equilibrium, leading to ailments such as anxiety, hypertension, and weakened immune function. Recognizing this connection requires a more holistic approach that addresses both the mental and physical aspects of stress reduction.

Breathing Patterns and the Nervous System

Scientific research has shed light on the profound influence of breathing patterns on the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiration. Two particular breathing techniques that our staff was taught include:

Box Breathing:  Also known as square breathing, this technique involves inhaling, holding the breath, exhaling, and holding the breath again – each for a count of four. By consciously manipulating the breath, individuals engage the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a relaxation response that counters the stress-induced fight-or-flight mode.

The Physiological Sigh: This natural reflex involves taking a deep breath in to 75%, breathing in a little bit more, and then exhaling with a sigh. Research has shown that the physiological sigh resets respiratory patterns, enhances oxygen exchange, and stimulates the parasympathetic response, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.

Integrating Meditation into the Workday

The idea of meditation can make you think of crossed legs and audible "ohm-ing". But integrating meditation into a busy workday doesn't have to be formal or complicated. Brief mindfulness practices can be seamlessly woven into work schedules, offering momentary calm and focus.

1. Micro-Meditation Breaks: Designate a few minutes during breaks to practice mindfulness. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Feel the inhalation and exhalation, letting go of racing thoughts.

2. Mindful Walks: Take a few minutes for a mindful walk. Feel the ground beneath your feet, notice the surroundings, and synchronize your steps with your breath.

 

Prioritizing Employee Mental Health

Recognizing the profound impact of employee well-being on our success, we are shifting our focus toward supporting the mental health of our people for many reasons:

1. Enhanced Creativity: Stress can stifle creativity, hindering innovation. When our people are mentally healthy, they can think with clarity and creativity, being adaptable and less prone to reactive decision-making.

2. Positive Work Culture: A workplace that encourages mindfulness and stress reduction fosters a positive environment where our people feel heard, understood, and respected.

3. Increased Engagement: When our people know that we prioritize their well-being, they are more engaged, contributing positively to the work atmosphere and collaborative efforts.

4. Increased Tenure: Employees in organizations that prioritize mental health are more likely to feel valued and supported. This translates to higher job satisfaction and decreased turnover rates.

With so many benefits, it is clear that incorporating meditation and breathwork into the workplace is not just a wellness trend; it's a scientifically backed strategy for enhancing employee mental health and reducing stress.  By weaving meditation and breathwork into the workday, our people can foster a sense of mindfulness that ripples through every aspect of their lives.

Sessions like these are just one of the ways we are committed to offering our people a healthy, inclusive environment wth opportunities for personal growth. Learn more about the benefits of working with Electrozad and browse open opportunities to join our team HERE.

 

Tags: Company News, our values

Monique Scott

Written by Monique Scott

Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I'm Monique and as the Marketing Specialist at Electrozad, I update our community on industry news, company announcements, events you should attend, and staff milestones.