Wellness

Why It's Time to Step Away from the 10,000-Step Goal

Is the buzz about 10,000 steps overhyped? As India's vibrant cities and corporations embrace a new wellness ethos, it's time to rethink old benchmarks. Discover how traditions, technology, and holistic insights are shaping the future of workplace health. It's not just about steps; it's about the journey.

September 2, 2023
Nitesh Padghan

India, with its vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, has been a silent observer of global health trends. In bustling cities from Mumbai to Bengaluru, where skyscrapers touch the heavens and streets buzz with life, a wellness revolution is unfolding. At its heart? The time-honored goal of 10,000 steps. But as the corporate world evolves, it's time we pause, reassess, and ask: Is this step count really the answer for employee health?

You see, every organization, from startups in Hyderabad to tech giants in Pune, wants a workforce that's not just present, but thriving. The '10,000 steps a day' mantra, for years, has been the go-to solution. On paper, it's straightforward. In practice? Maybe not so much. Especially when you consider the hustle of Indian urban life, where juggling work, family, and self-care can be a daily tightrope walk.

Unpacking the 10,000-Step Enigma

We've all heard it. The clarion call to march towards the 10,000-step milestone. But where did this number even come from? Not a medical lab or a wellness guru, but a 1964 marketing strategy in Japan. As the Olympics fever soared, a company marketed a pedometer, weaving the 10,000-step narrative. Fast forward, and this number has cemented itself in the global wellness lexicon.

manpo–kei (10,000 steps meter)

But here's the rub. For the average Indian employee, swamped with tasks and battling city traffic, this target often feels like scaling Mount Everest daily. If you're strolling at a leisurely 100 steps a minute, this goal translates to nearly 12 hours of walking every week. It's not just daunting—it can feel downright unattainable, especially for those tucked away in office cubicles or stationed at shopfronts.

The Science Speaks

Here's where things get interesting. Global studies, with sample sizes in the hundreds of thousands, are flipping the script. Turns out, it's not about hitting a lofty target, but consistent, meaningful activity. An increase of just 500 steps daily (that's a mere five-minute jaunt) can slash cardiovascular risks by 7%. Ramp it up to 1,000 steps, and the overall mortality risk dips by 15%. The real sweet spot? A more doable 4,000 steps.

This isn't just about numbers. It's about understanding the diverse fabric of the Indian workforce. The young techie in Gurgaon might be game for a 10k challenge. But the seasoned executive in Chennai? Perhaps not. And that's okay. The focus should be holistic wellness, not a one-size-fits-all metric.

Wellness in the Tech Era

India's tech prowess is no secret. From mobile apps to digital platforms, technology is reshaping how we approach wellness. The old-school pedometer has made way for sleek apps that don't just count steps but offer a holistic view of health. The Indian employee today has a suite of digital tools at their fingertips, tracking everything from sleep patterns to nutrition.

Companies too are catching on. Innovative platforms are offering rewards for wellness milestones, bridging physical health with tangible incentives. It's a win-win, ensuring employees are engaged, motivated, and on a path to holistic health. After all, in today's dynamic corporate landscape, employee well-being is not just a perk—it's a priority.

Redefining Workplace Wellness Goals

The 10,000-step goal, while inspirational for some, might need a rethink. As India strides into a new era of corporate wellness, the emphasis should shift from lofty targets to sustainable, meaningful wellness practices. Whether it's flexible work hours to accommodate physical activity, office spaces designed for movement or digital tools to track and reward wellness, it's clear: the future of employee health is holistic, inclusive, and personalized.

In essence, while the 10,000 steps might still find enthusiasts, the broader goal is clear: crafting a wellness narrative that's rooted in scientific insights, practicality, and the diverse needs of the Indian workforce. After all, in the intricate dance of well-being, it's not just about the steps, but the journey itself.

Mindfullness

Mindfulness Matters: How to Stay Steady during Storms

October 28, 2022
The Wellness Tribe Team

During these times of wars, illnesses, crimes, economic turmoil, and all the bad things happening around the world, it can be hard to regulate our worry and stop dwelling on worst-case scenarios.

This is where mindfulness meditation may be most beneficial. What is mindfulness, what are its advantages, and how can we incorporate it into our everyday lives?

Mindfulness: What Does It Mean?

Mindfulness Matters: Holding Steady in the Storm
Photo by Kyson Dana on Unsplash

Mindfulness refers to focusing on the current moment without judgement. Our innate human capacity to be completely present without being overreactive or overwhelmed is known as mindfulness. When we practise mindfulness, we return our attention back to the present moment, enabling us to regulate our thoughts rather than the other way around.

Mindfulness is also the polar opposite of spending life on autopilot, which most do without even recognising. How can you know if you're in autopilot mode?

Do you find yourself ticking off task after task without taking a break? Do you often contemplate when doing something as simple as assisting your kid with homework? 

If you answered yes, it's time to embrace mindfulness. Pause for a minute. Take note of your child's giggles.

Find Your Peace in the Midst of the Turmoil and Enjoy Benefits Such As:

Mindfulness Matters: Holding Steady in the Storm
Photo by M Venter

Improved Emotional Stability

Studies, as well as our experts, suggest that attentive people manage stress better and avoid harmful coping mechanisms. They are aware of their own feelings as well as the emotions of others. Therefore, they approach events calmly and cope effectively with unexpected circumstances, ultimately leading a happy healthy life than those who don’t practice mindfulness.

According to research, those who practise mindfulness better manage anxiety caused by diseases, making it more relevant in our daily lives.

Better Professional Performance

Mindful meditation enables us to concentrate on one task at a time, reducing our tendency to get distracted. It also increases creativity by removing negative thoughts that stifle creative thinking.

Practising mindfulness helps us concentrate on the present and allows for better ideation, clear communication, and active listening —- all of which are valuable qualities to have a perfect work life balance.

Better Interpersonal Relationships

Mindfulness practice helps us create better ways of interacting with others. It teaches us to avoid emotional responses and approach every interaction with empathy and patience – something we could all use right now.

Overall, mindfulness is related to increased regard for people and their feelings, making it simpler for us to change our actions to better our relationships. This is especially true when it comes to having wellbeing at workplace as we start to deal with every situation mindfully. 

In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity." - Albert Einstein

Here’s How to Get Started With a Mindfulness Practice

Mindfulness Matters: Holding Steady in the Storm
Photo by RF._.studio

Set Your Intention for the Day:

Mornings are ideal for this, but if you can't, choose a time that works best for you throughout the day. Simply take these few steps:

  • Sit up straight with your spine relaxed, not stiff.
  • Take three slow, deep breaths. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.
  • Consider your day's schedule and ask yourself what your purpose is.
  • Respond to the question and state your objective, which may include being kinder to yourself, eating well, getting certain tasks done, and so on.
  • Check-in with yourself throughout the day to make sure you're on track.

It is important to take frequent breaks while working since sitting continuously can be harmful to your health.

Pay Attention to the Sound:

When you are feeling nervous or upset, focusing your attention on the noises around you may be relaxing and centering practice. You just need to complete the following activities:

  • For a minute, sit comfortably with your eyes closed.
  • Focus on the sounds around you and identify them. For example, the clock ticking, the fan whirring, and the leaves rustling. 

After one minute, take some time to notice how relaxed and present you feel. Do this every day to enhance your general mental health.

Get Some Stretches In:

Need a quick boost when working from home? You may do the following as long as your chair has a back:

  • Put your left hand on your right knee.
  • Place your right arm on the chair's back.
  • Stretch gently.
  • Take note of the stretch; after 60 seconds, return your body to its original position.
  • Repeat on the opposite side.

Eat Mindfully:

Eat what you really want to eat, and don't rush through your lunch breaks. Take your time enjoying it. Be sure to pay attention to:

  • The different textures in your food
  • The time and effort put into putting it together
  • The explosion of flavours in your mouth

Dive Deep Inside Your Body:

It's easier than it seems. Close your eyes and:

  • Take note of any areas of your body where you experience tension; it might manifest as an ache or a tightness.
  • Bring your focus to a point in your body where you are not stressed.
  • Concentrate on the lack of tension as well as body sensations such as a steady pulse and a relaxed jaw.
  • Keep your attention on this for 10 seconds.
  • Consider that feeling extending throughout your body for another 10 seconds.
  • Return your focus to the initial source of tension in your body.
  • Focus on the difference if it feels different.
  • Repeat this practice many times, noting where and when the tension has eased so that the sensation might extend to the rest of your body.

Final Thoughts

You don't have to practise every single mindfulness method to feel better and more present. Experiment with various routines and strategies to see what works best for you and your schedule. After that, practise, practise, practise. We're going through a difficult period, but we'll emerge stronger.

Allow yourself to breathe, take a break, and be appreciative of the current moment in the meanwhile – it's the best any of us can do.

Personal Wellbeing

Bouncing Back Better: Embracing Resilience in the Workplace

December 28, 2022
The Wellness Tribe Team

What does it mean to be resilient in the workplace? Why is it important to be resilient at work? How can you boost employee resilience? The following article will provide you with all the information you need.

The last three years have seen organisations and employees become more flexible and adaptive. However, the epidemic has caused many people to feel more stressed and worried because of the changing workplace dynamics and widespread remote work.

The way individuals respond to change has a significant impact on their personal and professional lives. Therefore, organisations should prioritise employee wellness initiatives that assist their employees in developing a resilient mindset.

Resilience in the Workplace: What Does It Mean?

Bouncing Back Better: Embracing Resilience in the Workplace
Photo by Arlington Research on Unsplash

As organisations evolve, everyone must adapt to changes and difficulties. Resilience should therefore be one of the top strategic objectives. People capable of adjusting to changes and staying productive will be better equipped to meet the organisation's needs.

Regardless of employee loyalty, health issues, current events, or personal obstacles will always affect them. In addition, employee wellbeing is affected by changes at work, such as new technologies and interpersonal conflicts. Therefore, employers must show compassion and support to assist their employees in coping with stress and overwhelm.

Here are few tips to build resilience in the workplace.

Identify Employee Workloads

Employees being given too many tasks can lead to stress and worry. Therefore, managers and supervisors should keep an eye on their employees' workload. 

Employees can prioritise their activities based on deadlines and expectations using project management tools that provide an overview of what each team member is working on. Additionally, learning time management skills will help people avoid being overwhelmed and respond effectively to new challenges.

Develop a Culture of Compassion

An organisation can cultivate a culture of compassion for its employees and others, and the results will always be worth it. Developing strong work connections and increasing collaboration between coworkers fosters employee engagement and performance while decreasing turnover.

The company will benefit from building workplace resilience in today's rapidly changing business climate. Assess your organisation's resilience and health at work. 

Promote Mindfulness Exercises

Bouncing Back Better: Embracing Resilience in the Workplace
Photo by Shashi Chaturvedula on Unsplash

Individual resilience is a personal trait. Mindfulness is one mental training technique that can be quite beneficial as it helps a person improve their ability to see their surroundings because how they think significantly impacts how they perceive their surroundings.

Mindfulness training enhances cognitive flexibility, which helps people perform better at work. Empathy, compassion, and emotional intelligence can all be enhanced by mindfulness activities. These characteristics lower employee stress, stimulate employee creativity and engagement and foster resiliency, all of which can help organisations perform better.

Set a Good Example.

Strong leaders who can exhibit resilience to their employees may benefit from a workplace that supports resilience. An employee who regularly sees this attribute may benefit from this good example. Consequently, individuals may feel more driven to improve their workplace resilience. 

You may display great leadership abilities and resilience while leading or working with others by creating workplace objectives, tackling problems confidently, and managing stress constructively.

Consider Resilience Training.

Offering resilience training in the workplace through an employee wellness program can educate you and your team on how to manage stress healthily, tackle obstacles professionally, and return to work after a difficult period. 

Look for expert speakers who can inspire and educate your team about resilience, or have your colleagues and team members prepare presentations on how they employ this talent at work. Make sure to highlight the resilience, its importance at work, and how team members may develop it throughout the training.

Identify Your Employees’ Needs.

When managers recognise their team members' needs and challenges, they can assist them in developing resilience. It is important to learn about these experiences because resilience aims to help people overcome adversity. 

Managers can help their employees overcome barriers, distractions, or difficulties when they're aware of them. Ask your workers about their problems in questionnaires, and you'll better understand their needs. By gathering the essential facts, you can begin developing strategies for building resilience within the team and maintaining a healthy work environment.

Identify and Accept Flaws.

It is possible for managers to help their teams recognise and accept mistakes and challenges in the workplace by admitting shortcomings. As a result of this strategy, workers may be able to develop resilience during times of difficulty

Employees can be motivated by their dissatisfaction when managers encourage them to learn from their mistakes. It allows people to learn from their failures and grow so they can succeed in the future. Self-resilience can also be developed in the workplace through employee wellness initiative.

Incentivise Volunteers

People are able to stretch themselves and reach beyond their comfort zones by volunteering at work. In order to build resilience, individuals might take on new initiatives or jobs that are challenging. 

Managers and team leaders may be more willing to encourage employees to take advantage of changes when they offer incentives. It may be appropriate for managers to give volunteers an extra day of paid time off so they can take charge of a project and create a schedule.

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This month we are focusing on food and how it affects your mental health. Join us as we bring in the most relevant interesting content from across the wellness segment.

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