In today's fast-paced and competitive work environment, employers are looking for ways to improve employee productivity and well-being, and this is becoming a factor that influences employees’ decisions on who to work for. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by incorporating wellness trends into the workplace. By promoting physical activity, healthy eating, and mental health management, employers can create an environment that encourages wellness and promotes a better quality of life for their employees. In this blog post, we will explore some of the latest wellness trends in the workplace and how your furniture can adapt to support them.

But firstly, what is a wellness room and why would anyone want or need them?

Wellness rooms are spaces where employees can rest, relax and re-energise. Sometimes this includes exercise, meditation, a private space for mothers or just quiet spaces with biophilic elements so staff members can relax and have some time out. Studies have shown that employees with higher levels of wellbeing are more productive and loyal, so its often in employers’ best interest to create options where this is possible.

There are some furniture elements that can contribute to creating the perfect wellness space in your office. Consider the following for a wellness space that you might want to create:

Ergonomic Furniture

Ergonomic furniture is designed to improve posture and reduce strain on the body. This type of furniture is especially important for employees who sit at a desk for extended periods. Ergonomic chairs and desks can be height-adjustable to accommodate the individual needs of employees and help prevent common health issues associated with sitting for long periods.

Height-Adjustable Desks

Studies have shown that sitting for long periods is not good for our health. Sitting for long hours can lead to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Sit-stand desks allow employees to alternate between sitting and standing while working, which can help reduce the risk of these health problems. Height adjustable desks such as the Enhance pods are adjustable, allowing employees to switch back and forth between positions as needed throughout the day.

Outdoor Office Furniture

Spending time in nature has been shown to improve our mental health. Outdoor office furniture, such as picnic tables or benches, provides a way for employees to spend time outside during their breaks. A nature break can provide much needed Vitamin D, help reduce stress, boost creative thinking, and promote a better mood.

Soft Seating

Comfortable soft seating allows wellness rooms to be more homely and welcoming, for a place to relax and refocus. This type of seating also offers pops of colour to brighten up or calm a room down.

Collaborative Spaces

Collaborative spaces are an excellent way to promote teamwork and communication among employees. These spaces can be outfitted with comfortable, modular furniture that is flexible and easy to rearrange. Collaborative spaces can also include whiteboards, display screens, and other technology that supports group meetings and presentations.

Lighter Materials

Lighter furniture materials, such as mesh and aluminium, are becoming increasingly popular in office furniture design. These materials are not only lightweight but also easier to clean and maintain. They are also more environmentally friendly as they use fewer resources to produce and transport.

There are many ways that employers can improve workplace wellness, and incorporating wellness trends into office furniture is a great place to start. With the right spaces, you can create a work environment that promotes physical activity, healthy eating, and mental health management. Not only will this improve employee well-being and productivity, but it will also benefit your business by reducing healthcare costs and employee turnover. So, if you want to create a healthier and happier workplace, start by making simple changes to your office furniture. Talk to our team today about how simple furniture changes can make a difference to your team’s wellbeing.

If you need help to spruce up your office furniture, see our range and get in touch with our team for advice.