To call today's workplace 'fast-paced' is an understatement. We live in a constant whirlwind of emails, deadlines, and meetings. Multitasking has become the norm, and 24/7 connectivity has blurred the line between work and home life. This can all take its toll on our physical and mental health, leading to stress, burnout and a lack of productivity.
Fortunately, staff wellbeing has become a hot topic and a priority for responsible employers. One of the key components of a good wellbeing strategy is creating a comfortable work environment.
To promote employee wellbeing, a healthy workspace is essential. Choose an office with plenty of natural light and adequate personal space. Encourage employees to move around regularly. Access to green spaces and communal areas also helps nurture healthier, happier, and more productive staff.
In this blog, we'll discuss how promoting employee wellbeing benefits both employees and companies. We'll give advice on how companies can improve employee wellbeing and some practical tips that employees can try today to help reduce workplace stress and boost productivity.
At Arena Offices, we recognise that a healthy work environment is essential for the wellbeing of our clients and their teams. We’re committed to creating environments that promote happiness, collaboration and productivity. If you are an employer ready to prioritise workplace wellbeing, book a tour at one of our 11 offices today.
Why employee wellbeing matters
In today's hectic workplace culture, it’s easy to neglect our mental and physical wellbeing, but the cost is huge. Poor mental health can lead to workplace stress and mental health issues, not to mention the tangible cost to employers. A government-led study suggests that the effects of poor mental health on productivity are costing businesses as much as £42bn per year.
Through employee wellbeing initiatives, organisations can:
- improve employee engagement
- boost job satisfaction
- reduce absenteeism
- increase staff retention
- improve productivity
Prioritising mental wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s an investment in your team’s potential and your business's success.
Arena Offices’ top tips for prioritising your wellbeing at work
Here are Arena's top tips on creating a healthy work environment, combating work-related stress, and promoting employee well-being.
1. Get moving for mental and physical health
The University of Leicester's research on sedentary behaviour shows that being stuck behind a desk all day can be detrimental to your mental and physical health. They found that excessive sitting significantly increases the risk of physical conditions like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. By introducing regular breaks and light activity every 30 minutes, they found it could reduce these risks, enhance productivity and reduce absenteeism.
Try this today:
- Take micro-breaks - stand up, stretch, or take a short walk every 30–60 minutes, even if it's just around the office or to refill a water bottle.
- If possible, walk or bike to work or park further away from the building to add more steps to your commute.
- Suggest walking meetings for discussions that don't need a desk - they're a great way to combine productivity and movement.
At Arena, we are big believers that regular movement can boost overall mood and productivity. Humans were just not designed to sit in one place all day long! Many of our offices have access to green space and woodland areas, ideal for lunchtime walks or simply taking five in nature. We love to host community exercise sessions, such as pilates and yoga classes, and our Basingstoke office even has an onsite gym.
2. Make the most of communal spaces
A change of scenery can work wonders for focus and creativity. Moving around different areas of the office can help break up your day, avoid monotony, and increase your energy levels. Communal spaces are perfect for quick catch-ups, brainstorming sessions, or simply stepping away from your desk to recharge.
Try this today:
- Take a brain break - Go to a communal break-out area to recharge for 10 minutes. Have a coffee, chat with colleagues, read a book, stare out of the window, do some downward dogs... Whatever you do, time away from your desk and screen can re-energise you for the task ahead.
- Step out of the meeting room - Hold your next team meeting in an informal meeting area. The relaxed setting can encourage creativity and more frank conversation.
At Arena Offices, our break-out areas and collaboration booths are great for a change of scenery. They help our clients break up their day into digestible chunks, spark creativity, and avoid stagnation. Arena clients are also free to visit any of our 11 offices to use different meeting rooms, to bust boredom and to boost inspiration.
3. Prioritise natural light
Exposure to sunlight has the power to enhance employee morale and improve mental health. Sunlight is a source of Vitamin D and helps us regulate our circadian rhythms – the 24-hour internal clock in our brain that regulates cycles of alertness and sleepiness.
At Arena, we prioritise employee wellness by designing our buildings with open spaces, ample windows, and plenty of natural light.
South Coast Fatigue is a specialist Occupational Therapy Service that has been thriving at Arena’s Lancaster Court for more than ten years. The team is led by Clinical Director Fran Hill, who said:
“There is an overall sense of calmness at Lancaster Court which helps to promote the health and wellbeing of our team as well our visitors. We love how natural light and nature is incorporated into the building – it’s a really nice space to be.”
4. Create personal space
It is important to have an area at work which is completely your own, such as a specific desk. Maintaining personal space helps create a sense of security and control, reducing anxiety and stress.
Expect Best is a web design firm based at Arena Offices’ Holyrood Place in Poole. The team works in one of our mezzanine-style expanded workspaces that spans two floors, offering ample room to accommodate their growing team and facilitate future expansion.
Alex Dibben, MD of Expect Best, said:
“We have a fantastic office space that has been customised to prioritise our wellbeing and productivity. Our desks are spaced out, so every member of our team feels happy and relaxed, meaning they can produce their best work. We also have communal areas where we can come together to collaborate.”
Other ways for employers to prioritise mental health support
Outside of the physical office space, here are some other key ways employers can promote wellbeing at work.
Start an Employee Assistance Programme
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) are confidential support services set up by employers to help staff with personal or work-related issues. They offer resources such as counselling, legal advice, and mental health support, often through a 24/7 helpline or online platform.
Visit the CIPD site for advice on how to set up an Employee Assistance Programme.
Create a clear boundary for better work-life balance
Establishing a clear boundary between work and home is essential for mental wellbeing. Promote flexible working hours or hybrid work models to help employees better manage personal and professional responsibilities. Discourage excessive overtime and encourage employees to take regular breaks and holidays to recharge.
Don't forget to provide remote workers with the same level of wellbeing support so they don't feel isolated. Schedule regular check-ins, even just to say 'hi', and encourage regular connection and collaboration.
Training and development
Invest in professional growth opportunities, such as skills workshops or mentorship programs. Empowering employees with new skills not only boosts morale but also improves performance, job satisfaction and staff retention. Consider investing in mental health training to actively support staff well-being.
Create a positive workplace culture
Create a supportive company culture where employees feel valued and heard:
- Give regular feedback
- Acknowledge achievements, commitment and effort
- Encourage open communication
- Promote teamwork
- Involve individuals in decisions
- Promote good leadership and relationships
- Be clear on your company goals - a shared purpose is key to employee engagement
Read more about creating a positive workplace culture.
Network with other businesses in your building
Networking with other businesses can enhance staff wellbeing by creating a sense of community, connection, and professional growth. At Arena Offices, our shared spaces, like business lounges, cafes and break-out areas, are perfect for striking up a conversation or making new connections. We also host events to help businesses network and grow together. Plus, with access to all 11 Arena centres, you’re part of a wider community for collaboration and support.
Essential resources for employers
- The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) offers guides and resources on employee wellness strategies.
- Great Place To Work provides insights and staff wellbeing ideas.
- Mind is a leading mental health charity providing training and resources to support staff and promote a healthy workplace.
Find out how Arena Offices can help promote employee wellbeing
At Arena Offices, we understand the importance of a work environment that supports productivity and employee wellbeing. Our offices are designed with features that prioritise natural light, ergonomic layouts, and access to green spaces, ensuring teams feel comfortable and inspired.
From on-site gyms to breakout areas and collaboration spaces, we create environments that encourage movement, creativity, and connection. With access to 11 Arena centres in Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey and Berkshire, we also offer flexibility and opportunities for networking within a thriving business community.
We would love to show you around – why not book a tour today?
Read more about why more companies are choosing Arena Offices.