Can you believe that many of us, as employees, spend nearly half of our waking hours at work? As employees, we spent an average of 30 hours per month in meetings! Since meetings and events make up a significant part of an employee's working day in the office, let's talk about ways that we can promote and support healthy behaviors at meetings to advocate and support workplace health.
Next time you, your department, or your organization is planning a meeting, use this healthy meetings checklist below.
1. Include Physical Activity.
Encourage employees to move when needed. Consider designated time intervals for movement.
For Example:
30 minutes into the meeting, it is time to stretch and stand.
1 hour into the meeting, it is time for a 5-10 minute walk break together.
2. Provide Healthy Snacks.
Gauge the meeting time of day and projected length. Fresh produce and high protein snacks are ideal. Place food in a prominent location, being mindful of dietary and cultural needs.
3. Observe Mental Health.
Start and end meetings at the scheduled time. Promote positive action items and ensure each employee has a valuable reason for attending.
Making good use of this meeting time can be a vital tool to promote overall employee wellness.
Looking for more? The World Health Organization also (WHO) offers a guide to healthy meetings containing the key aspects to consider while you are planning your next work-related meeting or event, several practices, and recommendations to make meetings more sustainable and promote health and wellness, examples of healthy menu choices, physical activity recommendations, checklists, and more.
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