April is both Move More Month and Stress Awareness Month – two campaigns that highlight crucial aspects of our wellbeing. Move More Month, initiated by the American Heart Association, encourages people to incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines for better cardiovascular health and overall wellness. Meanwhile, Stress Awareness Month has been observed since 1992 to promote understanding of stress, its impact on health, and the importance of stress management in maintaining well-being.
These two awareness campaigns may seem distinct, but they are deeply interconnected. One of the most effective ways to manage stress is through physical activity. Moving more isn’t just beneficial for physical health – it’s also a powerful tool for maintaining mental wellbeing.
The Power of Movement in Managing Stress
When we engage in physical activity, our bodies release endorphins – often called the “feel-good” hormones. These natural mood boosters help reduce stress levels, alleviate anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Regular movement also lowers cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, preventing the chronic stress that can contribute to long-term health issues.
Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, stretching, or a high-energy workout, movement can help regulate emotions and provide a much-needed mental reset. The key is to find activities that fit into your lifestyle and that you enjoy, making them easier to sustain.
Movement in the Workplace: Why It Matters
For many employees, the workplace is a significant source of stress. Deadlines, workload pressures, and prolonged sedentary periods can take a toll on both mental and physical health. Encouraging movement at work can make a considerable difference:
- Microbreaks: Simple stretches or a short walk around the office can refresh the mind and reduce muscle tension.
- Active Meetings: Standing or walking meetings can boost engagement and creativity while preventing prolonged sitting.
- Encouraging Workplace Wellness Initiatives: Employers can promote activities such as lunchtime yoga sessions, step challenges, or even just awareness about the benefits of movement. At Acorn Occupational Health, this year, we are taking this a step further by organising a charity fundraiser that promotes movement while raising money for two great causes: Dementia UK and The MND Association. Getting involved in workplace challenges like these can be a fun and motivating way to stay active and connected.
When movement is integrated into the workplace culture, it fosters a healthier, more engaged, and less stressed workforce.
Helping Employees Reduce Stress and Move More
As an employer, you can play a key role in guiding employees toward better stress management and increased physical activity. Encourage your team to take care of their wellbeing both at work and outside of work by providing simple, actionable advice.
Tips for Stress Reduction:
- Encourage Regular Breaks: Stepping away from work for a few minutes can help employees clear their minds and return with fresh focus.
- Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage employees to set boundaries, take time off when needed, and avoid excessive overtime.
- Offer Mental Health Resources: Providing access to mental health support can help employees manage stress effectively.
- Create a Positive Work Environment: Recognition, clear communication, and a supportive culture can help reduce workplace stress.
Tips for Increasing Movement:
- Suggest Active Commuting: Encourage employees to walk or cycle to work where possible, or even park further away to get extra steps in.
- Promote Lunchtime Walks: A short walk during lunch can boost energy levels and improve mood.
- Encourage Stretching and Desk Exercises: Simple movements throughout the day can prevent stiffness and enhance focus.
- Support Participation in Fitness Challenges: Whether it’s a step challenge, charity event, or group fitness class, workplace initiatives can make movement more engaging.
By providing employees with these strategies, you can help create a healthier, more resilient team that feels supported in both their mental and physical wellbeing.
Supporting Employees Beyond Movement
While movement is a fantastic way to reduce stress, sometimes employees need additional support. Workplace stress can stem from various sources, including workload, personal struggles, or underlying health conditions.
At Acorn Occupational Health, we provide management referral services to help employers support their teams effectively. Our assessments can identify work-related stress factors and recommend tailored adjustments. Additionally, our workshops on mental health topics, including stress management, can equip both employees and managers with practical tools to foster a healthier work environment.
This Move More Month and Stress Awareness Month, take a proactive approach to wellbeing. Encourage movement in daily life and within the workplace to help manage stress more effectively. And if stress is impacting your team, Acorn Occupational Health is here to provide expert support and tailored solutions.
Contact Us
Ready to create a healthier, more resilient workplace? Contact us today to learn more about our management referral services and how we can help your team.
📞 Call: 01260 277797
📧 Email: website@acornoh.co.uk