by Lynn Heatley. Last week, I had the opportunity to sit around a round table and chat with other leaders about best practices of implementing “wellness programs” in the workplace. It was an enthusiastic group that shared from a place of diverse practices. And it represents a new trend to bring greater wellness to the workplace. The group is part of a subcommitee of the Fit Fresh and Fun Forum in the city of Riverside. Some were implementing areas in their workplaces where their employees could walk over lunch. Often, there were incentives to encourage the friendly workplace banter of who could “earn” the most points. Some had rewards and bonuses for those who lost weight or improved other physical areas that would lead to better health. This is a fairly new movement that is getting the attention of universities to investigate more thoroughly. County Health Departments, Employers and Employees will all benefit as more of these programs towards wellness are further promoted in their workplaces in the coming years. Bravo to the city of Riverside and others who are leading the charge. Here are some fun and inspiring programs to look at towards healthier lifestyles (see links below).
I like the World Health Definition of Wellness: “…a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
May we all grow in wellness!
Happy Holidays!
Lynn
Here are some links:
WELLNESS WHEEL- http://www.vanderbilt.edu/recreationandwellnesscenter/wellness/wellness-wheel/
FIT FRESH & FUN FORUM- http://www.riversideca.gov/mayor/fitfreshfunforum/
RETHINK YOUR DRINK- http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/drinks.html
MAINTAIN DON’T GAIN- http://www.amerihealth.com/worksite_wellness/employer_toolkits/weight_mgmt.html