Sinking neck deep into a mineral spa, taking a barefoot walk along a long stretch of beach, or sitting under a giant tree to meditate – these are the kinds of things that spring to mind when you consider your wellbeing options. But have you considered your workplace could also play a part in your wellbeing?

Increasingly, the idea that employers are responsible for the positive mental health of their workers has gathered pace, as has the concept that the workplace can be an oasis for the mind and creative thought.

With a millennial workforce expected to dominate the workplace by 2025, this socially-conscious group are at the forefront of demanding a place that nurtures and inspires them to be productive and successful. And they’re not far wrong. A healthy workplace culture has been shown to increase productivity, collaboration and efficiency, enhance employee retention and satisfaction, and even reduce stress.[i]

And when you consider most people will spend around one third of their life at work, it makes sense for employers to invest in wellbeing strategies.[ii]

Experts agree that taking a holistic approach to workplace wellbeing is what is needed to effect real change. For example, it may seem great to introduce five-minute desk massages, but it may be more effective to provide casual settings where people can get up and away from their desks to chill or to collaborate with co-workers. Likewise, sending out emails about the importance of getting fresh air may tick a corporate wellbeing box, but making it possible for staff to take a lunch break and go for a midday walk is even better.

Similarly, studies have increasingly shown the benefits of having access to pure tasting, filtered water in the office. Did you know that even a two per cent drop [iii] in hydration levels can lead to grumpiness, headaches, poor concentration and difficulties completing tasks? Chances are, once you register that you’re thirsty, you’re probably already suffering the effects of dehydration.

Where once the water cooler was the heart and soul of an office, the modern version – a hydration hub or water bar – is the new generation’s version.

BRITA has two new German-designed water filtration systems perfect for the modern office environment. The BRITA Top Pro is a commercial-grade water filtration dispenser that provides a choice of four water types: unchilled and chilled still water, chilled semi-sparkling and sparkling water. There’s also the new BRITA Extra C-Tap, a stylish stainless steel above the counter water filtration system with a glass touch panel that offers the same water types as the BRITA Top Pro, plus hot water on demand for that all-important mid-morning or afternoon cuppa.

The best thing about these filtration systems is that you can install them away from the tap, helping to create a casual communal gathering area in an office. Experts have even been able to place a figure on the benefits of this so-called ‘water cooler effect’ with research showing that enabling this kind of social interaction boosts productivity by 10 to 15 per cent.[iv] Think about it, we’ve all had those moments when engaging in an impromptu brainstorming session has led to some fresh new ideas, or how chatting casually about a workplace problem has unearthed a solution.

For this reason, offices with wellbeing top of mind are increasingly encouraging ditching the conference room for standing meetings, or outdoor walking meetings, which allow you to stay on task as you get fresh air, stay active, hydrate and socialise.

It turns out that the easiest ways to encourage wellbeing in the office are the easiest, and most affordable with clean air, natural light and pure, filtered water the top of the agenda.

Curious how BRITA can give you an edge in your next project? Contact us to find out more.

References:

[i] https://www.forbes.com/sites/pragyaagarwaleurope/2018/08/29/how-to-create-a-positive-work-place-culture/#1bb02fb34272

[ii] https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/05/how-to-transform-workplace-mental-health-through-a-holistic-approach-to-employee-health-and-well-being/

[iii] 3GEM in collaboration with BRITA Professional (2018)

[iv] https://www.smartcompany.com.au/people-human-resources/productivity/water-cooler-chats/

Architecture & Design Team

Brita

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