More Energy, Less Stress: Get fit and eat well

This afternoon, I was delivering a presentation on stress management, improving sleep routines and finding the ideal life balance.

It reminded me of some research that we conducted a while ago, the results of which we summarised in a press release which you can read in full below.  

What's interesting to note that for the majority of new audiences that we work with the priority areas for change remain consistent. 

As a side note, if you're looking to tackle stress in your organisation, there are a couple of forthcoming events that might help with communicating positive messages.  National Work Life Week takes place September 23-27^th 2013, and National Stress Awareness Day is 6^th November 2013.

Anyway, here's the press release with details of the research:

DESPERATELY SEEKING ENERGY

Exercising more and eating better are the two most urgent wellbeing objectives employees need help with

A recent survey* shows that nearly two thirds of staff say their top wellbeing objectives are to make simple changes to their exercise routine and their diet.

Wellbeing consultancy the Tonic has been touring the UK with their More Energy, Less Stress wellness programmes, outlining the key strategies to optimum health and wellbeing, and motivating participants to commit to some positive healthy living behaviour changes. 

When asked what their priorities for change were, an overwhelming 39% expressed the desire to take more exercise while 22% said they'd most like to eat more healthily as their top priority.

These preferences illustrate quite clearly that when it comes to energising and engaging staff and helping them tackle stress, simple wellbeing initiatives that get people active and eating better will pay dividends.

The evidence is clear, comments Tonic Director Jeff Archer, 'Properly researched and targeted wellness programmes help staff take appropriate action, quickly and effectively, to enable them to experience the benefits of a healthier lifestyle immediately. As soon as they begin to feel better, particularly in relation to their energy levels, their confidence and their personal effectiveness, the pay off for each individual and for the business as a whole is immense'.

To test the effectiveness of their initiatives, Tonic staff followed up on participants' commitments one month later and found that respondents had made remarkable progress in this short space of time, underlining the notion that the right wellbeing messages delivered in creative ways that engage a corporate audience can lead to dramatic results.

Sample feedback from those who took part in initiatives:

‘Overall I have to say my energy levels are higher and more consistent, I’m feeling more positive and I’m sleeping better!  So, thank you very much for your insights.’ 

‘I feel fitter and more energised.’

‘I have joined the gym so my exercise has increased 1000%, I have lost half a stone since we had the meeting.’

‘I've lost 3 kg. I am playing tennis and going to gym 4 times a week. I eat more fruit and drink more water.’

‘My wellbeing and energy levels have improved so remarkably I feel alive again. Before this I was always tired and by end of day it was terrible, I could not spend quality time with my family and I was so irritable by then. Walking is enjoyable and I'm doing 5 km twice a week. I am losing some weight and feel great.’

Other popular objectives chosen by participants in the programmes illustrate where further wellbeing interventions can be targeted:

• Improve work-life balance
  
• Improve my sleeping routine
  
• Lose weight
  
• Drink more water
  
• Reduce caffeine intake
  
• Make more time for myself
  
• Reduce alcohol intake
  
• Improve stress management
  
• Stop smoking / reduce smoking
  
• Make more time for my family
  
  *Survey sample size 444 people.