indigo insights

Wellness in the workplace: More than just a program

In today’s fast-paced work environment, simply offering wellness programs is not enough. True workplace wellness requires a culture shift—a shift where everyone leads by example, where well-being is prioritized, and where team members feel empowered to take care of themselves without fear of falling behind.

By Cecelia Nowack, Change Management Consultant

The disconnect between wellness programs and workload

Many organizations promote wellness initiatives, yet employees struggle to take advantage of them due to overwhelming workloads. If leadership is not modeling the behaviors they encourage, employees may feel hesitant or even guilty about prioritizing their well-being. Self-care should not be seen as a luxury but as a necessity that benefits both the individual and the organization. When we are well cared for, we can show up as our best version of ourselves at work.

The link between self-care at home and work

Personal and workplace well-being are deeply interconnected. Employees who neglect their health outside of work are more likely to struggle within it, and vice versa. We are all our own primary caregivers, responsible for maintaining our mental, emotional, and physical health. Yet, many people put their own well-being last, whether due to caregiving responsibilities, demanding schedules, or ingrained workplace expectations.

Practical ways to prioritize wellness at work

Workplace wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, intentional actions can make a big difference. Simple ways to integrate wellness into the workday include:

Take five-minute screen breaks to rest your eyes and reset your mind.
End meetings five minutes early to allow time for transitions and bio breaks.
Incorporate somatic movements and breathwork to release tension.
Start meetings with a quick stretch or shake to energize and refocus.
Lead by example by prioritizing wellness so others feel encouraged to do the same.
Encourage walking meetings when screen share isn’t needed or a value-add.
Use standing desks or treadmill desks to stay active while working.
Step outside for fresh air or take a mindful break to call a friend.
Unplug during lunch for a technology-free, nourishing break.

By normalizing these behaviors, we create a culture where wellness is both encouraged and respected.

Normalizing wellness in the workplace

For workplace wellness to be effective, it must be normalized and reciprocated. Employees should feel safe and supported in prioritizing their well-being, and those who set the tone, like leaders, managers, and teams, ideally respect and encourage these behaviors. A workplace that values wellness does not promote a culture of "living to work" but instead recognizes that even the most dedicated professionals need balance.

Everyone has different relationships with work, and that also should be acknowledged and respected. Those who choose to immerse themselves in their careers should not impose those expectations on others. True workplace wellness is about fostering a culture where employees can bring their best selves forward because when people are well-rested and cared for, they contribute more meaningfully, creatively, and effectively.

A call to action

It’s time to shift our mindset around wellness in the workplace. It’s not just about offering programs, it’s about embedding well-being into the culture. When self-care is supported and demonstrated at work, employees are healthier, happier, and ultimately more productive. The key to success lies in leading by example, creating space for wellness, and ensuring that well-being is not just encouraged but truly valued. After all, individual wellness promotes business wellness.