The Stress Factor

Finding the best ways to make healthy behaviors a routine is not only a personal necessity, but a financial one. Stress is a leading cause of workplace disruption:

• One million workers are absent each workday due to stress or stress-related causes - representing more than 250 million lost workdays each year.
• More than 75 percent of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related complaints.
• Stress is linked to depression and insomnia and to all leading causes of death, including heart disease and cancer.
• Stress is linked to decreased focus, heightened anger and mood disorders, and increased injuries at work due to loss of attention.

But consistent use of mind/body practices offers proven short and long-term benefits to employees and employers:

• Immediate effects in lowered heart rate, decreased muscle tension, improved mood, and greater focus.
• Higher alertness and greater mental clarity over long hours.
• Quick renewal and recovery after a stressful period.
• Better communication and teamwork.
• Enhanced flexibility and innovation.
• Higher job satisfaction.
• Increased loyalty and retention.
• Lower absenteeism.
• Reduced health care costs.