Corporate Wellness

In this insightful episode of Make America Healthy, dive into the realm of corporate wellness, exploring how companies are fostering a culture of health and well-being among their employees. Our esteemed guests, Clara Henderson, co-chair of the Wellness Associate Research Group and Retail Operations Manager at Kroger, and Samantha Clayton, VP of Sports Performance and Fitness Education at Herbalife Nutrition, share their perspectives on this topic.

In the fast-paced corporate world, the demands on employees have never been higher, and time is a commodity in short supply. However, amidst the hustle, a growing realization about the importance of health and well-being is taking root. Clara, an advocate for employee well-being at Kroger, highlights the changing dynamics within the corporate landscape, shedding light on how companies are actively embracing a holistic approach to support their workforce.

Samantha, echoing the sentiments of many in the corporate wellness sector, emphasizes the global epidemic of obesity, attributing it in part to the sedentary lifestyle facilitated by technological advances. She underscores the dual nature of technology as both a gift and a curse, making our lives more convenient but inadvertently chaining individuals to their seats for longer periods.

Kroger, under Clara’s leadership, has become a trailblazer in corporate wellness. The company has partnered with YogaFit, offering employees the opportunity to break away from their desks for stretching and movement sessions. Fitness groups, wellness coaches, and dietitians are readily available, fostering a culture that prioritizes the well-being of its workforce.

Samantha delves into the economic implications of an unhealthy workforce, citing a 2017 study that reveals the United States spent over $146 billion on losses related to healthcare costs, lost wages, workplace injuries, and overall employee dissatisfaction. She points out that investing in employee wellness programs is not just a financial outlay but a strategic move to mitigate long-term losses.

Samantha also stresses the role of leadership in cultivating a culture of well-being within organizations. When company owners lead by example, adopting healthy lifestyles and providing access to wellness options, it empowers employees to follow suit.

Clara offers a glimpse into Kroger’s forward-thinking initiatives, including a dedicated floor with standing desks, meditation rooms, and wellness centers. These tangible steps demonstrate the company’s commitment to creating an environment that promotes employee happiness and health.

In the grand tapestry of corporate wellness, the threads of inspiration are beginning to be weave, encouraging us to envision a healthier America—one cubicle, one standing desk, and one nutrient-rich meal at a time.