Tech-savvy wellness: How to use technology to supercharge workplace efficiency
As organizations recognise the direct correlation between employees' wellbeing and productivity, innovative tech solutions are emerging as powerful tools to support both health initiatives and operational excellence. According to the Corporate Wellness Report, the global corporate wellness market will reach $90.4 Billion by 2026 as AI is emerging as the wellness expert in the corporate space.
After the pandemic, hybrid and remote work have become the new norms, making it more essential to opt for virtual-friendly ways of promoting wellness. This shift has accelerated the adoption of digital wellness solutions, from mobile applications to wearable devices, creating a more accessible and inclusive approach to employee wellbeing.
Organizations that embrace these technological advances are experiencing enhanced engagement, reduced absenteeism, and stronger team cohesion across distributed workforces.
Importance of technology and wellness at workplace
The office hours are constrained to 9-5 usually, but wellness can’t be put in a time frame. An employee feeling stressed at 9 pm can access the digital applications for mindfulness. An employee working in different time zones can choose the time to use wellness tools and applications according to his convenience.
Personalization
Everyone’s journey of wellness is unique. Some require more attention while some can do great with little effort. Technology helps in making their wellness journey personalised. Fitness applications recommend the intensity of the workout based on exercise patterns. Mindfulness applications recommend programs based on the goals.
Cost effectiveness and engagement
Traditional wellness programs require significant investment in physical infrastructure. They also require the attention and engagement of the employees, which usually goes in vain. But with technology-savvy wellness programs, engagement is better because of features like tracking and rewards.
Integration with daily work
Wellness technology seamlessly blends with work tools. For instance, calendar integrations can automatically schedule movement breaks, while desk sensors can remind employees to adjust their posture. It doesn’t affect their workflow or it doesn’t require a special time and place instead it seamlessly blends with their work.
Privacy and comfort
Many employees hesitate to seek help for sensitive issues like mental health in person. Technology provides a confidential way to access support. For example, employees can use anonymous messaging features to discuss concerns with counsellors or participate in online support groups without revealing their identity. This privacy encourages more people to seek help when needed.
Wellness apps and tools for workplace productivity
Organizations are increasingly turning to various digital solutions to support their wellness initiatives. These solutions broadly fall into three categories: applications, software tools, and physical devices. Let's explore each category and how they contribute to employees’ efficiency.
Applications for wellness at the workplace
There are many applications that help in enhancing the emotional, physical and mental wellbeing of employees at the workplace.
Employees physical wellbeing
Focus on the physical fitness of employees increases their energy levels at work, and sharpens their brains for problem solving. There are many applications such as Cult Fit, and HealthifyMe. These applications provide online and offline workouts, personalised diet plans and trainer support. There are a variety of workout plans such as yoga, strength training, cardio etc.; employees can select according to their preferences.
Employees mental wellbeing
Focusing on the Mental wellbeing of employees helps them cope with work stress, burn out and maintaining work-life balance. Different applications that support mental wellbeing are Headspace, Waking Up and Calm. These applications provide personalised programs in accordance with their end goal, such as better sleep quality, stress management and mindfulness etc. Employees can choose their own time and place to practice.
Tools for wellness at workplace
Apart from applications, there are different tools as well such as software, wearable devices and other tools like standing chairs, foot resters etc.
Softwares for wellness
Software like project tracking, posture tracking, scheduling etc. helps in increasing the productivity of employees with efficient management. At Manah, we also offer one such tool called Mahaverse. It is an AI-powered tool that answers your wellness query, offers psychological support, video-based learning and daily tools like journaling.
Wearable and other devices
Devices like fitness bands, noise cancellation headphones, standing chairs etc. help in increasing workplace productivity. These devices track the progress and give detailed reports for analysis. Other devices like ergonomic monitoring tools such as smart chair sensors that monitor sitting time and posture, and desktop ergonomic assistants further help in increasing efficient working.
FAQs
Can wellness technology actually help reduce workplace stress?
Research shows that wellness apps can effectively reduce workplace stress through features like guided meditation and breathing exercises. These tools help employees manage stress in real time and develop long-term coping strategies. However, they work best when combined with proper workplace policies that address core issues pf stress.
How can wellness technology support remote and hybrid workers?
Digital wellness platforms offer location-independent access to health resources, virtual fitness classes, and online counselling. They help maintain team connections through digital communities and challenges. The key advantage is flexibility; employees can access these tools anytime, anywhere, making them ideal for distributed teams.
