^As India gears up to celebrate its 78th Independence Day, it's a time for reflection and gratitude. We remember the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and the remarkable progress we've made as a nation. Amidst the celebrations, it's also an opportune moment to acknowledge the transformative journey of workplace wellness in India - a journey that parallels our nation's pursuit of progress and prosperity.

From the humble chai breaks of the past to the sophisticated corporate wellness programs of today, India's workplaces have come a long way. This article takes you on an insightful journey through the evolution of workplace wellness in India, highlighting key milestones, overcoming challenges, and envisioning the promising future that lies ahead.

The Early Days

In the early years of independence, the focus was primarily on industrial growth and economic development. Workplace health was often synonymous with physical safety and preventing occupational hazards. The Factories Act of 1948, a landmark legislation, laid down basic standards for working conditions, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for factory workers.

However, the concept of employee wellness was still in its nascent stage. The traditional Indian workplace was characterized by long working hours, limited breaks, and a focus on output rather than the well-being of employees.

The 1980s and Beyond

The 1980s marked a turning point. The devastating Bhopal gas tragedy in 1984, one of the world's worst industrial disasters, underscored the critical importance of workplace safety and environmental protection. This incident led to a series of reforms, including the enactment of stricter regulations and the establishment of the National Safety Council.

Simultaneously, the rise of the IT industry and the globalization of the Indian economy brought about a paradigm shift in the workplace. The new work culture, with its emphasis on technology and knowledge, brought to light the importance of addressing not just physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. Stress, burnout, and lifestyle diseases became prevalent concerns, necessitating a more holistic approach to employee wellness.

The Rise of Corporate Wellness

The 21st century witnessed a significant transformation in the Indian corporate landscape. Companies began recognizing that a healthy and happy workforce is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage.

The concept of corporate wellness gained traction, with companies investing in employee health and well-being programs. Initially, these programs focused on providing basic health checkups and promoting physical fitness through gym memberships and yoga classes.

However, as the understanding of wellness evolved, so did the scope of these programs. Today, leading organizations in India offer comprehensive wellness initiatives that encompass physical, mental, emotional, and even financial well-being. From stress management workshops to mindfulness sessions, from ergonomic assessments to financial planning seminars, corporate wellness programs have become an integral part of the modern Indian workplace.

Key Milestones in India's Workplace Wellness Journey

• 1948: The Factories Act - A pioneering legislation that laid down basic standards for working conditions and safety measures in factories.
• 1976: The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act - Prohibited all forms of bonded labor, safeguarding the rights and dignity of workers.
• 1984: The Bhopal Gas Tragedy - A turning point that led to stricter regulations and a greater emphasis on workplace safety and environmental protection.
• 2003: The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code Bill - Aimed at consolidating and amending various labor laws related to workplace safety, health, and working conditions.
• 2013: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act - A crucial step towards creating a safe and inclusive work environment for women.
• 2020: The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code - A landmark legislation that streamlined and simplified various labor laws, including those related to workplace wellness.

Where We Stand Today

While the journey towards a healthier workforce has been remarkable, the current landscape presents a mix of challenges and opportunities. A recent report by MediBuddy and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) sheds light on some key trends:

• Burnout is a Major Concern: A staggering 62% of Indian employees experience burnout, significantly higher than the global average of 20%. Work-related stress, remote work challenges, and poor work-life balance are the primary culprits.
• Healthcare Costs are High: 71% of employees spend an average of 5% of their annual income on out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, highlighting the need for more comprehensive employer-provided healthcare options.
• Gaps in Wellness Programs: Despite the growing need, only 24% of employees are satisfied with their current workplace health options. There's a clear disconnect between employee needs and existing corporate wellness programs.
• Wellness as a Recruitment Tool: 72% of job seekers consider employee wellness programs crucial in their decision-making process. Companies with robust wellness programs have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining talent.
• Expanding Benefits: Progressive companies are now offering a wider range of wellness benefits, including mental health counseling, teleconsultations, and even coverage for dependents.

The Road Ahead - Challenges and Opportunities

While India has made significant progress in workplace wellness, several challenges persist. The informal sector, which employs a large portion of the workforce, still lacks adequate access to healthcare and social security benefits. Mental health stigma remains a significant hurdle, preventing many employees from seeking help and support.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and growth. The rise of technology, particularly in the field of digital health, offers new possibilities for delivering personalized and accessible wellness solutions. The increasing focus on preventive care and mental health awareness is also encouraging.

The Future of Workplace Wellness in India

The future of workplace wellness in India is bright. We can anticipate a greater emphasis on holistic well-being, with programs that address not just physical health but also mental, emotional, and financial well-being. Technology will play a pivotal role in delivering personalized wellness solutions and tracking progress.

Moreover, with the government's focus on initiatives like the National Mental Health Policy and the Ayushman Bharat scheme, we can expect greater access to healthcare and mental health support for all citizens, including the workforce.

Last Thoughts

As we celebrate India's 78th Independence Day, let's also celebrate the remarkable journey towards a healthier and happier workforce. It's a journey that reflects our nation's spirit of resilience, innovation, and progress.

The road ahead is filled with possibilities. By embracing a holistic approach to wellness, leveraging technology, and fostering a culture of support and inclusivity, we can create workplaces where employees thrive, not just survive. This is the true essence of freedom - the freedom to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life.

^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 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:

‍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

‍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.