Stress and the Workplace

The incidence and cost of stress-related health problems and conditions is skyrocketing. According to Fortune Magazine, stress-related illnesses cost American businesses well over $200 billion annually. Deadlines, phones, extended periods of sitting, consistent use of computers and a general stressful environment all contribute to the wearing down of an individual's creativity and physical body. Our muscles stay tight and tense thus making work days less productive. Under these fast paced, time pressure conditions, to work at your best you have to feel your best. A relaxed person whose mind is free to think clearly is at their best. Implementing on-site stress reduction and fitness programs result in:

· Improved mental clarity
· Relief of current stress and tension
 · Increased energy Improved work performance and efficiency
 · Bonding of employee with company.

Possible Solutions include offering employees avenues to relieve stress and improve overall health and fitness. Balanced Concepts in Health, LLC offers a variety of wellness-oriented programs and services that may be presented at your company location. These include:
 
I. Chair Massage

On-Site Massage is a 12-15 minute massage to muscles of the neck, shoulders, arms, hands and back performed at your work location. Employees receiving the massage sit comfortably, fully clothed, in a specifically designed portable massage chair. A licensed massage therapist, using a variety of techniques, eases tension by assisting key muscle groups to relax. No lotions or oils are used.
 
II. Tai Chi & Chi Kung

Focusing on connecting the body, mind and spirit, Tai Chi  and Chi Kung may also be used in a corporate setting to effectively reduce stress. Group and individualized classes are available during or after the workday at the studio, or may be presented on-site, tailored to company needs. On-site introductory classes are held once per week for a series of 6 weeks. Frequently, companies offer this service to employees as part of a stress management expense or fitness program.

III. Group Fitness Classes

Group fitness classes are convenient stress reducers that improve mental sharpness. You choose which classes to have provided at your location, ranging in variety from stretching and Zumba to Tai Chi/Qigong and Yoga.
 
Tai Chi & Chi Kung 
Students will be introduced to the concepts and movements of Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese Martial Art. This class will include basic Qigong exercises and warmups in addition to learning the first section of a moving form. Focusing on connecting the body and spirit by way of the mind, Tai Chi is now being utilized to effectively reduce stress, increase flexibility, improve balance, promote internal peace and help in preventing disease. In our classes, movements are performed slowly with complete concentration, emphasizing physical fluidity, breathing and mental discipline. Additionally, the movements are taught from a martial and self-defense viewpoint, thus preparing the student with applicability of technique.

Yoga & Pilates on the Ball
Utilizing various movements, postures and techniques similar to those found in Yoga, Pilates and conditioning programs, this class will focus on improving strength, balance and flexibility incorporating the use of 65c exercise balls. With the additional ball component, there is the extra challenge of trying to maintain balance and coordination throughout the sequences, requring mental and physical control. All movements will be performed slowly with emphasis on breathing, strengthening, lengthening and stretching while utilizing correct form, posture and biomechanics.

Yoga Fitness
Yoga is one of the oldest mind/body activities in the civilized world and it's physical practice focuses on bodily mastery. In this class focus will be on moving through physical postures with proper breathing and technique, incorporating various stretching and conditioning movements. Perfect for the individual wishing to increase flexibility, strengthen their body and calm the mind.
 
IV. Other Corporate Programs
Individual fitness assessments and presentations on nutrition, exercise, stress management and other health related topics are also available and may be tailored to your individual or corporate needs. Instructors All classes and assessments will be conducted by Christine Booras and/or other professionally trained instructors and licensed practitioners. In some cases, there is a need for more than one instructor or massage therapist to be present. You can feel confident in recieving the highest level of expertise in whatever program you choose.