Stress is a major component to a number of mental and physical health issues. In today’s economy and context of business we are constantly challenged by technology, social media and daily demands and constant negative narratives which manifest as stress within our bodies as well as mentally.
Allowing yourself the opportunity to relax and “ just be” is key to keeping those stress and anxiety levels under control. To most of us, the epitome of relaxation includes a day at the spa. More and more corporates have acknowledge that stress plays a large part in our day to day life’s and adversely affect employee performance and contribute to high levels of abseentism in the workplace.
Occupational Care South Africa (OCSA) has revealed up to 15% of staff call in sick each day in South Africa, costing the economy R16 billion per annum. However, for every three employees that don’t show up to work, only one is physically ill.
A Bloomberg study revealed South Africa was ranked as the second-most stressed country in the world, while a study in 2004 discovered as many as 30% of South Africans were likely to suffer a mental disorder in their lifetime. Workplace stress is one of the primary causes, as short-term symptoms, like feeling distracted, unable to focus, or depressed, can become more serious over time.
Common symptoms of long-term stress include stomach issues, back pain, high-blood pressure and can even lead to permanent mental disorders, including clinical depression. Yet, despite the risks, almost half of South Africans say they cannot take a day off due to their workload.
Stress-related work absenteeism isn’t only impacting South Africa, with a worldwide annual loss of business estimated at $100 billion. In response to this growing crisis, industry giants, from Google to PricewaterhouseCoopers, are recognizing the essential need to keep employees happy at the workplace.
When an employee is feeling motivated and creative, they do their best work, and the company thrives. As such, investing in workers’ mental well-being won’t just reduce the cost to South Africa’s annual business turnover, but will likely increase it.
Spa treatments and massage therapies, which are quick and relatively affordable, create both mental and physical health benefits. In fact, studies have shown that the frequency of visiting a spa directly correlates with better quality sleep, fewer sick days, reduced absenteeism from work and fewer hospitalizations. More specifically, the heat from a hot tub, sauna or steam shower soothes aches and pains from arthritis, fibromyalgia and other joint issues.
Salt therapy, Hydrotherapy, heat therapy and massages both improve blood circulation and manage blood pressure. Some spas even have Pilates and yoga, which improve flexibility and breathing.
Throughout the process of massage therapy, lymph flow stimulation enhances the immune system. Proper lymph flow, the body’s defense, draws out metabolic waste, excess water, toxins, and bacteria from the muscles. In turn, swelling and soreness decreases while ability to fight off disease increases. Massage also improves circulation and posture.
Facials detoxify the skin from built up waste and bacteria. This is important because the skin is not only the largest organ in the body, but also the first line of defense against environmental toxins. Facials also release stress tension from the head and neck, which can prevent headaches. Scrubs exfoliate and nourish the skin through the earth’s natural elements, like soil, salt, clay, and water, which are full of vitamins and minerals.
As an additional stress reliever, most spas make the effort to use products that increase the physical and mental benefits of your particular service or treatment. In other words, lotions, scrubs, wraps, etc. come in soothing scents like lavender, eucalyptus, and aloe. At Bakwena in association with spa brands we have developed our own range of such products.
Top companies are focusing on employee wellness with employee wellness programmes on site which includes on site spa therapies or embracing spa incentive programmes…providing employees with a gift voucher to enjoy a day at the spa/ utilizing spa packages (full or half day)as a team building incentive . The international spa association acknowledge that sending employees to a spa is no longer a nice to have but meaningful in addressing stress ensuring better work performance and productivity.
The question now is what about costs? Bakwena day spa introduced and trademark the concept “on the move” where we come to you, and provide companies the opportunity to sign a retainer with us. In the comfort of your premises we offer mini massages, contributing to the overall wellness of employees. This could include Indian head and neck massages, hand or foot massages.
We also offer a day away from the office where teams can enjoy relaxation and revitalization in a country setting/wine farm and enjoy either a half day or full day of relaxation and team building. This includes massages, breakfast, lunch and snack platters depending on the package booked. This leaves a team more connected, energized and creative to deal with issues in a more positive and focused way.
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Part of the Orion Group of Companies
