Stress at work
The pandemic increased anxiety levels for many people. This included stress from being in lockdown, fear of the virus, a sense of isolation, concerns over job security, pressures to fit in work while homeschooling, workload issues and many more.
For staff working from home, there are additional factors to consider. Are they taking sufficient breaks? How are they coping without human interaction? Are they able to switch off after work?
Companies are turning to mindfulness and meditation to help deal with these issues and support employee wellbeing.
Why Mindfulness and Meditation?
Some of the
physical benefits:
- reduces blood pressure
- reduces the stress hormone cortisol
- boosts the immune system
- grows the brain (literally) – increasing memory, attention, self-awareness and self-control
Some of the psychological benefits:
- reduces anxiety and depression
- increases empathy and compassion
- increases capacity to learn
- stimulates the part of the brain responsible for concentration, focus and problem solving
Time Out Time Within brings mindfulness and meditation to staff working from home through online de-stress sessions – enabling them to have time out from their busy lives and time within to pause, unwind and re-charge.
What's included?
There are different ways to meditate and some people find certain practices or techniques suit them better than others, so Time Out Time Within sessions are practical and experiential. Attendees get to try different ways to ‘go within’ and see what works best for them.
Sessions include:
- Breathing techniques to de-stress
- Mindfulness and relaxation for the body
- Mindful movement
- Guided meditations for a positive mindset
Additional information
- Sessions are usually 1 hour long, held over Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
- No previous meditation experience is necessary.
- Attendees need only a device to connect to the online session and some uninterrupted time in a quiet place. (This can be their desk, or somewhere they are able to sit or lie comfortably).
Client Feedback
Holiday Extras
Comments from staff at travel company Holiday Extras after a Time Out Time Within workplace session:
A stand out success!
Perm ran a Time Out Time Within session for our team at Holiday Extras during a week of rejuvenating and inspiring events and it was a stand out success! Perm's calm and soothing tones were like nothing I'd encountered as she guided us through a series of meditation and mindfulness techniques aimed to relax, unwind and reconnect with our minds and bodies. At the end of the session I found myself wondering why I didn't do this type of thing more often and I have been asked to get Perm back for more by the team! TOTW is definitely something I would recommend for any organisation who wants to help their team inject a bit of calm into a busy day.
Nikki Chandler
Delivery Director, HOLIDAY EXTRAS
What I enjoyed most was the simple techniques that worked and that I can take away and remember for myself going forward. Perm was really good at bringing the session together and the timing was great. I relaxed very quickly and felt very calm after the session.
Development Lead
I thought it was great, as the session gave a variety of techniques, enabling you to then choose the one that works for you going forward. I loved the 5 senses technique. A massive thank you for your time today, it was much appreciated and needed!
Continuous Improvement Specialist
The ‘calming palm’ tip was a stand out for me, especially using it when you log off for the day whilst working at home. The breathing practice at the end was also amazing, so relaxing and a great tool to have for the future when I need 5 minutes to re-focus and unwind.
PPC Manager
Mental Health Matters
Comments from staff at mental health charity Mental Health Matter after a Time Out Time Within workplace session:
I enjoyed the practicality of the session. Perm is brilliant and the session was great. 5 stars – excellent.
Employment Advisor
I am inspired to make this a part of my day after work… It was really worth my time and I will be telling all my colleagues.
Telephone Support Worker
I enjoyed the breathing exercises and learned new ways for maintaining mental health and wellbeing.
Helpline Administrator
