How to create a workplace wellness box

Nov 22, 2018

As temperatures drop and workloads surge, it’s important to keep your mental health top of mind.

If your workplace is healthy, mentally-speaking, you are likely to feel good about being there, about your colleagues, and about the work you do: all things that reinforce your own mental health. Wondering what you can do to boost your workplace culture?  Here’s one way: create a workplace wellness box including things that help reduce stress and put an accent on feeling well.

Here are some suggestions to get you started:

1. Colouring book and coloured pencils

Colouring books aren’t just for kids anymore. In fact, they are a great way to turn your attention away from stressors. Colouring can be quite meditative and calming.

Check out the CMHA Anti-Stress Colouring Book, available in our online store.

2. Essential oils

Aromatherapy is an age-old practice of using naturally extracted scents to promote wellbeing of the mind and body.[1] Appealing to your sense of smell can help distract you from stressors and help you chase away that feeling of being overwhelmed. And on the days you’re feeling down, some essential oils are known to actually lift your mood.

Try out lavender or frankincense as stress-reducing options.  And orange or bergamot to get a bit of a lift.

3. Sensory fidgets

Using your sense of touch can help you cope with anxiety. Whether it’s the latest gadget (like a fidget spinner), or a tried and true stress ball, studies show that these toys can ease your anxiety. You could even break out the Play-Doh: it’s a stress reliever too.

4. An uplifting playlist

Do songs from your youth take you right back? Is there a song on the radio that makes you sing and dance, in spite of yourself? Music can be transformative and help us manage emotions. Collaborate with your work mates on a playlist of songs that make you feel good.

5. Tea

Taking a break to enjoy a cup of tea is a great way to calm your anxieties and reduce stress. Add tea bags in your wellness box to remind your colleagues to take a breather and enjoy a warm beverage. We recommend chamomile or peppermint tea for their soothing, calming effects.

6. Random Acts of Kindness

A great way to boost your mental health is to pay it forward. Studies show that giving to others is linked to increased mental health for everyone involved. Keep your wellness box stocked with “acts of kindness” ideas.

Here are some to start you off:

• Make a card for someone in your workplace
• Bring in treats for your colleagues
• Write someone a positive review on LinkedIn
• Take a colleague out for coffee

7. Healthy break activities list

One of the keys to wellness in the workplace is taking a break when you need one. While it might feel productive to stick to the grind, taking a break is crucial for your mental wellbeing, and for the quality of your work.

Include a list in your workplace wellness box to guide your colleagues in optimizing their break time.

Here are some examples:

• Meditate
• Go for a walk outside
• Stretch

8. Journal Jar

Grab an empty jar and fill it with ideas that will get you writing. Journaling is a great outlet that can help you get in touch with your emotions. It’s also a great way to distract your mind from your everyday stressors.

These journaling prompts will help you and your colleagues get started. Here are a few examples:

• If you could go back in time, what’s one thing you’d say to your teenaged self?
• Make a list of 10 things you’re grateful for.
• Describe your favourite place to visit.
• If you could meet any fictional character, who would it be? What would you say to them?

9. A list of phone numbers and resources to support someone who is struggling. Be sure to include:

• 9-1-1 in case of an emergency
• Your local crisis line
• Local CMHA

Is there anything else you would include with your workplace wellness box? Tweet us @CMHA_NTL with your recommendations!

[1] https://www.cfacanada.com/aromatherapy/