It is natural to protect and preserve those things that are important and valuable in our lives. But it may not always be top priority to preserve ourselves or those around us.

Employee health is one of the biggest assets an organization has. After salaries, company-paid employee health premiums are usually a company’s largest expense. Unhealthy employees can cost even more with absenteeism, diminished working ability, depression, workers’ compensation and other health concerns that lower employees’ ability to perform at the top of their game.

Employers and employees save money when we all become less dependent on the healthcare system and take more control of our own well-being. Besides, in the long run, lasting health benefits are more valuable than lowered health insurance premiums. Reducing workplace stress can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, decreased rates of illness and injuries, increased self-confidence and more energy to get through the day.

As businesses are becoming more aware of the importance of the well-being of their workforces, they are moving toward educating employees on the benefits of complementary healthcare such as massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, yoga and exercise programs. Being proactive about your health may help you avoid chronic problems, surgeries, absenteeism and decreased productivity.

Employee wellness days or wellness breaks are increasing in popularity and are a healthier way to say thank you to employees than pizza and pop in the break room. A team of trained and licensed massage therapists come to a company, set up massage chairs and tables and offer a five- to 10-minute massage to employees. Often employees will sign up ahead of time for a time slot to eliminate prolonged waiting. Many massage therapists are trained at pinpointing muscle and postural stress due to prolonged computer use and other work-related issues. The therapists can provide additional information on stretching and exercise for the employees to continue on their own, and they may suggest follow-up appointments to those who need extra help to reach their goals.

Another possibility is incorporating wellness bonuses as rewards for staff after achieving a specific corporate goal, making them a win-win for the company and the employees. These bonuses are successfully incorporated in a CPA firm after tax season, at a legal firm after winning a big case, and in a medical practice after the stress of transitioning to an electronic medical records (EMR) system. The possibilities are endless.

The use of gift certificates for complementary health services such as massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, yoga classes and more are on the rise. Employers are purchasing bundles of gift certificates to use for holiday gifts, birthdays and thank yous for their employees in place of food-related gift cards for stores and restaurants.

Offering health insurance that covers complementary and preventative health practices would be ideal. If this is not currently an option, then the next best thing could be for employers to offer a wellness package that will help with performance and well-being, such as assistance with smoking cessation, weight loss and gym memberships. Taking care of problems when they first arise and taking steps to living healthier will increase everyone’s bottom line and decrease waist size.

		Christine Reay is co-owner of Creative Wellness in East Lansing. She is nationally certified in massage therapy and bodywork, and specializes in clinical and sports massage.