12 Corporate Wellness Programs That Deliver
In today’s fast-paced work environment, corporate wellness programs have become essential for fostering employee well-being. There are many different types of corporate wellness programs, and the examples in this list will help you pick the best ones for your team.
In this guide, we will explore various options and their benefits. Plus, I’ll share insider tips you need to know before you schedule your next corporate wellness program.
1. Corporate Meditation Classes
Corporate meditation classes are sessions where employees learn about meditation and practice one or more techniques. Meditation, the practice of focusing the mind, often involves breath awareness, although many different techniques exist.
This simple practice offers remarkable benefits. Classes can usually be booked as single sessions or multi-session programs, often involving breathing meditations or guided sessions. Overall, meditation is excellent for mental health and can positively impact your bottom line.
Example: Our company has been providing corporate meditation classes for years. As leaders in the field, we are happy to answer any questions you have. If you would like to learn more, simply contact us today. For additional information, read our guide to corporate meditation benefits.
2. Dedicated Mental Health Groups
Dedicated mental health groups consist of discussions focused on mental health and wellness, providing employees with support. Typically, these groups feature one or two healthcare professionals alongside a group of employees.
Facilitators create a safe and friendly environment for sharing thoughts and concerns. According to Jen Porter at Harvard Business Review, workplace mental health groups effectively address mental health stigma through social connection, education, and peer support.
Example: Accenture Inc. in Toronto has a dedicated mental health group and a Mental Health Ally program, educating employees about mental health and offering world-class facilities to support workers’ well-being.
For more insights, check out this article on how to form a mental health employee resource group.
3. Encourage Community Involvement
One amazing corporate wellness program that many overlook is rewarding employees for being active in their community. Community involvement is critical for mental health, fostering a sense of belonging.
As Lauren Zuckman at Psychiatric Times notes, “Community involvement is key to a sense of belonging and maintaining our mental health.” Employers can encourage workers to get involved by educating them about local activities and events and rewarding participation.
Example: Manufacturer 3M, based in Minnesota with offices in Canada, rewards employees for community involvement through the 3Mgives Volunteer Awards. Employees and retirees who volunteer in the local community receive a $2000 donation to a charity of their choosing, improving both employee mental health and community well-being. For more details, visit 3M’s volunteer program.
4. Massage Services
Massage therapy is an excellent way to relieve stress and soothe aching joints. Many companies hire professional masseurs, with some even providing onsite massage services for employees.
Example: Google offers its employees massage therapy at work, employing a total of 35 massage therapists across its various offices in the United States. This commitment to wellness helps maintain Google’s reputation as one of the best companies to work for.
5. Workplace Sabbatical
A workplace sabbatical allows employees to take a lengthy absence from work, typically granted after several years of service. Sabbaticals can be paid or unpaid and enable employees to recharge and pursue personal interests.
Example: Adobe Systems Canada offers employees a sabbatical of four to six weeks every five years, along with extensive onsite amenities such as a pool table, board games, and a gym.
For further details on sabbaticals, read about Adobe’s sabbatical program.
6. Mental Health Chat Support
During mental health emergencies, employees need immediate support. Offering a free-to-call chat support line ensures that all employees have access to help when they need it.
Qualified corporate social workers and psychologists can provide assistance, making recommendations when necessary.
Example: Bell Canada’s Let’s Talk support group allows employees to reach out at any time, providing trained wellness specialists to assist employees over the phone. This initiative helps combat mental health stigma and supports millions in need. For more resources, visit the Bell Let’s Talk toolkit.
7. Company Town Hall Meetings
Town Hall Meetings bring the entire company or department together for open discussions. These meetings should create a sense of belonging, which is vital for mental health.
Example: Danone Canada hosts a monthly live-streamed town hall for employees to connect and engage in conversation. They also maintain a dedicated wellness page on their site and run a “Lets Move” contest to encourage activity.
8. Corporate Yoga Classes
Yoga is an excellent exercise for both the mind and body, helping with anxiety, stress, and physical fitness. Many companies provide onsite yoga classes with professional instructors.
Example: Ford Motor Company in Ottawa offers recurring yoga classes for its employees, in addition to pilates and Zumba classes, promoting overall wellness in the workplace.
9. Corporate Wellness Seminars
Corporate wellness seminars can cover a wide range of topics, including mindfulness, meditation, holistic living, and mental health.
The Daily Meditation specializes in providing corporate wellness webinars, making it easy to arrange these sessions over platforms like Zoom or Webex.
Example: Hershey’s Canada features an extensive list of wellness webinars for employees, featuring excellent guest speakers and informative content.
10. Smoking Cessation Programs
Smoking is detrimental to health and increases healthcare costs for employers. Implementing smoking cessation programs can save companies money while helping employees quit smoking.
Example: Union Pacific offers a smoking cessation program that provides both pharmaceuticals and coaching, leading to a significant drop in smoking rates among employees.
11. Healthy Transport Programs
Bike-sharing programs encourage employees to stay active while commuting. Additionally, providing financial incentives for environmentally friendly transport can promote wellness.
Example: Facebook in Menlo Park, California, is one of many companies that have adopted bike-sharing programs, promoting physical activity among employees.
12. Naps at Work
While it may seem counterintuitive, allowing employees to take naps can boost productivity. Companies like Asana and Facebook have invested in dedicated nap rooms to support employee well-being.
Example: Asana offers employees the opportunity to take naps at work, and their commitment to wellness has earned them recognition on INC magazine’s list of the 100 best places to work for four consecutive years.
13. Corporate Wellness Retreats
Corporate retreats can take many forms, from team-building adventures to relaxing spa retreats. Spending time together away from work enhances teamwork and camaraderie.
Example: Remote SaaS sales company Vivun took its employees to the stunning French Alps with a unique theme of “Mission Impossible.”
These corporate wellness programs will boost your employees’ health while also supporting a healthy bottom line.
If you’re interested in starting with a corporate meditation class, contact us for details.
Paul Harrison is a meditation teacher with 25 years of experience and a deep passion for helping others. Known for his empathy and authentic approach, he’s dedicated to guiding individuals and teams toward mindfulness, clarity, and well-being.
