Bringing yoga training and yoga classes into a corporate setting can provide myriad benefits to employees who participate in this form of fitness training and relaxation. Yoga classes should be taught by trained instructors, offered at convenient times and conducted in a space that is open and conducive to such classes.
Workplace Wellness
The "workplace wellness" concept has taken hold in companies large and small, as well as government offices and nonprofit organizations seeking to improve the health of employees and enhance alertness, reduce absenteeism, boost morale and create a more positive overall work environment. Wellness programs can range from the simple -- such as quarterly blood pressure checks and the distribution of pedometers -- to much more advanced programs that have classes such as yoga or aerobics at the workplace or in another convenient location. One benefit of a workplace wellness program is that it sends the message that management truly cares about its workers.
Developing Yoga Programs
The Chicago-based Corporate Yoga recommends the formation of workplace yoga programs that are convenient to employees' schedules, which means classes before or after work or during lunch. Employees should be encouraged to bring loose-fitting clothing. The company or the instructor contracted to run the classes should provide yoga mats. Management should make it clear that no one is required to participate, but rather that employees are invited to take part.
Benefits of Yoga
Yoga's health benefits include muscle toning, increased flexibility, greater concentration and focus, better breathing techniques and an enhanced ability to handle stress. Stress has been linked to numerous medical conditions, such as angina, depression and hypertension. Alert, focused and relaxed employees will be more productive.
Encouraging Participation
Although some employees may be distrustful of a workplace wellness program or just may not dig yoga, most employees will at least appreciate management's effort to provide something extra. Give workers some time to get used to the idea that classes are coming. Ask about the best times for certain employees. Consider offering prizes or other incentives for participation.
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