Wellness
For some peace of mind at work
October 10 is commemorated as World Mental Health Day by the UN. This year, the theme is ‘mental health at the workspace’
Text Credits : Shibul Pavithran Featured Image
The way in which employees feel at workspace can affect a lot in terms of productivity and output of the entire organisation. The lack of awareness about mental illnesses in the workspace causes a lot of cumulative issues such as absenteeism, stress, decreased productivity, lack of energy and confidence, increased health care expenses, alcohol or substance abuse, to name a few. Even though a few companies may have programmes to promote mental health, most companies do very little to prevent emotional issues. Most of the employees are hesitant to admit their issues due to the stigma or even fear the chances of getting fired for being honest about their mental condition.
Mental health refers to the scope of activities performed to improve mental conditions, avoiding mental disorders and by providing a proper diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of people affected by mental issues. Mental issues can be divided into two main groups – severe mental disorder, like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; and common mental disorder(CMD) such as depression, anxiety, stress, and other related issues. Most of the workspaces have one out of three people with acute/high-level CMD issues. Relationship issues, professional and personal life differences, broken homes, financial problems are just some common factors that contribute to the prevalence of CMD. Many have fear accepting the fact that they might have a mental issue and they prefer to live in denial. Instead of consulting a therapist or counsellor, they prefer to hide and avoid, as some of them consider it to be a sign of weakness to seek such help. Employers may wish to help their employees but don’t know how to do so.
Battling the monster
If such issues regarding the mental health of employees can be dealt at a foundation level, then overall there will be a healthy atmosphere at the office and employees will be more happy and content. This will lead to increased productivity and better results within the organisation. But accomplishing such tasks requires cooperation from both the employer and the employee, and shift in mindset about the nature of mental disorders and realising that such solutions take effort and time.
Some ways in which employer can create a good atmosphere would be:
1)Appreciation and Recognition: It is one of the most important aspects of working for an organisation. To be recognised and appreciated at the workspace makes an employee feel valued, and boosts the self-esteem.
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2)Creating a healthy environment at work: Since people spend more than half of their day at their workplace, it is important to take steps for the good health of all the people involved. Some of the things that can be suggested could include encouraging the importance of meditation, yoga, or exercises. Indoor plants can be kept in the office as they help in decreasing stress and increase the supply of clean air. Better interior design that might include using earthy colors on office walls and ensuring optimum sunlight would also help.
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3) Sensitivity training for HR and Management: Often employees resort to smoking, drugs, and alcoholism to cope with stress. It is the duty of the HR team or management to understand the issue clearly and recommend professional help. With better training, such matters could be addressed before the situation goes out of control. A healthy HR-employee relationship also contributes tremendously towards mutual cooperation and team spirit.
4) Work-life balance: It is absolutely crucial to understand the importance of work-life balance. This refers to understanding the personal needs of the employee and providing assistance, such as flexible scheduling, appropriate working hours, paid leave for health issues, taking care of transportation, ensuring more training time, fair accommodation for people with disabilities and reimbursement of health-related expenditure incurred by employees.
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5) Proper feedback and quarterly review: Many a time an employee feels less informed about his performance and contribution to the organisation. If the superiors are instructed well to give timely and detailed feedback to their juniors, it may help both ways. With proper feedback, the employee will be totally aware of the expectations of the organisation. And with a quarterly review, would let employees be more aware of their achievements and shortcomings.
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6) Monthly get together: An informal party where there are no hierarchical differences contributes to building good vibes among co-workers. This should be done to lighten up the pressure due to work and ensure good personal relationships between the employer and employee.
7) Conducting Offsite meetings: Offsite meetings are part of extended conversations with strategies tactics and goals for the organisation. These meetings could be conducted in hotels, restaurants, parks, or maybe in a cruise. The point is to break the monotony of office space, thereby resulting in better ideas, creative strategies, and happier staff!
8) Prevention measures: Promotion of mental health as part of an overall wellness campaign and by frequently bringing in professionals who specialise in mental health and substance abuse issues through interesting educational seminars. This will not only increase knowledge and awareness among employees but also help reduce the stigma attached to these disorders. Businesses who have done so reported reductions in health expenses and other financial gains for their organisations.
Wellness
Kintsugi: The Art of Embracing Imperfections
Kintsugi, an ancient Japanese art form, beautifully illustrates the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. Translating to “golden joinery,” Kintsugi involves the repair of broken pottery by mending the cracks with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Instead of hiding the damage, Kintsugi emphasizes the fractures, turning them into unique, golden veins that celebrate the history and flaws of the object.
The Origins and Philosophy of Kintsugi
Dating back to the 15th century, Kintsugi emerged during the Muromachi period in Japan when Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa sent a damaged tea bowl to China for repairs. Disappointed by the lackluster results, Japanese craftsmen began experimenting with more aesthetic solutions, ultimately developing Kintsugi as a delicate blend of craftsmanship and philosophy.
Kintsugi is deeply rooted in the Japanese principle of wabi-sabi, which appreciates the transient and imperfect nature of life. The art form embodies the idea that brokenness is not something to be hidden but embraced, turning flaws into features that add character and beauty. This approach teaches us to value resilience and transformation, finding strength in vulnerability and growth in the aftermath of adversity.
The Process of Kintsugi
The Kintsugi process is meticulous and requires patience. First, the broken pottery pieces are carefully cleaned and realigned. A lacquer made from urushi, a tree sap native to Japan, is applied to bond the pieces together. Once dried, the lacquer is mixed with powdered gold, silver, or other metals, creating a brilliant contrast that highlights the cracks. The final result is a restored object, now more valuable and striking for having been broken.
There are three main techniques in Kintsugi:
- Crack Repair: Filling simple cracks with gold or another precious metal to showcase the repaired lines.
- Piece Replacement: Using gold to fill in missing parts of the pottery, creating a striking effect where the gaps were once evident.
- Joint Call: Combining different pieces from separate items to form a new, unified whole.
Symbolism and Modern Interpretations
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Kintsugi carries profound symbolism. It serves as a reminder that, like pottery, human beings can also be broken and healed, and that these imperfections become integral to our identity. In a world that often seeks perfection, Kintsugi advocates for self-acceptance and the celebration of our own personal journeys of healing and renewal.
In modern times, Kintsugi has transcended its original context and found a place in various art forms, design, and even personal development philosophies. It is often referenced in literature, fashion, and mental health discussions as a metaphor for resilience and the beauty of imperfection.
Kintsugi in Contemporary Culture
Kintsugi’s influence has reached far beyond Japan. Artists, designers, and even therapists have embraced its concepts to inspire creative projects and self-reflection. In the world of fashion, for instance, the Kintsugi technique has inspired prints, patterns, and embellishments, representing fractured beauty through clothing. In interior design, Kintsugi-inspired pottery and decor have become symbols of elegance and mindful living.
Beyond art, Kintsugi’s message resonates with personal growth and wellness. It teaches us to honor our personal scars and experiences, making them part of who we are instead of something to hide.
The Beauty of Brokenness
Kintsugi is a timeless art form that transforms brokenness into beauty, offering a powerful metaphor for life. By emphasizing the beauty in imperfections, it teaches us to embrace flaws and recognize that each crack tells a story. In doing so, Kintsugi challenges us to rethink our relationship with imperfection, urging us to find beauty in our own broken pieces.
Wellness
Art Therapy: The Healing Power of Creativity
In a world filled with stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil, finding solace and healing through creative expression has become increasingly recognized and valued. Art therapy harnesses the transformative power of creativity to promote emotional well-being, self-discovery, and healing. Let’s explore the profound impact of art therapy and how it can unlock the healing potential within all of us.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art-making as a therapeutic tool to explore and express emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Through various artistic mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage, individuals are encouraged to tap into their inner creativity as a means of self-expression and self-discovery.
In art therapy sessions, trained therapists provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their feelings and experiences through art-making. Participants are guided through various exercises and prompts designed to stimulate creativity, encourage self-reflection, and promote emotional healing.
Art therapy offers a wide range of benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being:
- Emotional Expression: Art provides a non-verbal means of expressing emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally.
- Stress Reduction: Engaging in creative activities can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, helping individuals to cope with life’s challenges more effectively.
- Self-Exploration: Art-making allows individuals to explore their inner thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, fostering greater self-awareness and insight.
- Healing Trauma: Art therapy can be particularly effective in processing and healing trauma, providing a safe outlet for releasing pent-up emotions and transforming painful experiences.
- Enhanced Communication: For individuals who struggle with verbal communication, art therapy offers an alternative mode of expression, facilitating communication and interpersonal connections.
Art therapy is used in a variety of settings and populations, including:
- Mental Health Treatment: Art therapy is often used as part of treatment for individuals with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Settings: Art therapy is utilized in hospitals and healthcare settings to promote healing and well-being among patients coping with illness, chronic pain, or medical procedures.
- Schools and Education: Art therapy programs in schools help children and adolescents explore and process emotions, develop coping skills, and enhance self-esteem.
- Community and Social Services: Art therapy is used in community settings to support individuals facing life transitions, grief and loss, addiction recovery, and other challenges.
Interested in exploring art therapy? Here are some tips to get started:
- Find a Qualified Art Therapist: Look for a licensed art therapist who has completed specialised training and certification in art therapy.
- Experiment with Different Mediums: Don’t be afraid to explore different artistic mediums and techniques to find what resonates with you.
- Set Aside Time for Creativity: Make time in your schedule for regular art-making sessions, even if it’s just a few minutes each day.
- Embrace the Process: Remember that art therapy is not about creating a masterpiece; it’s about the process of self-expression and self-discovery.
Art therapy offers a powerful avenue for healing, self-expression, and personal growth. By tapping into our innate creativity, we can unlock the healing potential within ourselves and embark on a journey of self-discovery and emotional well-being. Whether you’re struggling with mental health challenges, navigating life transitions, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, art therapy offers a safe and supportive space to explore, express, and heal.
Wellness
Embracing the Magic of Simple Walking Every Day
In our modern, fast-paced world, where everything seems to be in constant motion, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of walking. Walking is not just a means of getting from point A to point B; it’s a gateway to a myriad of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore the magic of simple walking every day and how it can transform our lives for the better.
Physical Health Benefits:
Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, requiring no special equipment or membership fees. It strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Regular walking has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. It’s gentle on the joints and can be adapted to any fitness level, making it an ideal form of exercise for people of all ages.
Mental Clarity and Creativity:
Walking has a profound effect on our mental well-being. The rhythmic motion of walking can help clear the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. Many great thinkers, from Aristotle to Steve Jobs, have extolled the virtues of walking for sparking creativity and problem-solving. Studies have shown that walking in nature, known as “forest bathing,” can have a calming effect on the mind and improve cognitive function.
Connection with Nature:
Walking provides an opportunity to connect with the natural world, even if it’s just a stroll through a neighborhood park. Spending time outdoors has been shown to boost mood and increase feelings of vitality and happiness. Observing the changing seasons, listening to birdsong, and feeling the sun on your face can foster a sense of awe and wonder.
Social Connection:
Walking can be a social activity, whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll with a friend or joining a walking group in your community. Walking side by side with someone facilitates meaningful conversations and strengthens relationships. Even walking alone can create opportunities for serendipitous encounters with strangers and moments of connection.
Mindfulness and Presence:
Walking can be a form of moving meditation, allowing us to be fully present in the moment. Focusing on the sensations of walking – the rhythm of our breath, the feeling of our feet connecting with the ground – can bring us into a state of mindfulness and awareness. Walking mindfully can help us let go of worries about the past or future and find peace and contentment in the here and now.
In a world that often values speed and efficiency above all else, the simple act of walking reminds us to slow down, savour the moment, and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. By incorporating regular walks into our daily routine, we can reap a multitude of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that enrich our lives in profound ways. So lace up your shoes, step outside, and discover the magic of simple walking every day.
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