In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure business world where action is perceived as results and, too often, we’re busy for the sake of being busy, it can be difficult to slow down, breathe, focus inwardly and measure our own balance as humans.
This state of being consciously aware of our thoughts, emotions, and of what is occurring in the present moment with an attitude of openness and acceptance is often referred to as mindfulness; and it’s a practice which can allow one to feel more balanced, connected, fulfilled and motivated, both in their personal and professional surroundings.
Each Monday this month at Ultimate Edge Communications, mindfulness is what we’ll be focusing on as part of Wellbeing September.
Last Monday we focused on setting up our days for success; the importance of starting the day in the right frame of mind. Today, we’ll be learning about the many benefits of yoga on both mind and body.
Originating in India more than 2,500 years ago, yoga is a multifaceted practice involving eight different ‘limbs’: yamas (abstinence from violence, lying, stealing, greed and wasted energy); niyama (observance of cleanliness, contentment, discipline, self-awareness and contemplation); asana (yoga postures); pranayama (breath control); pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses); dharana (concentration); dhyana (meditation); and samadhi (absorption).
It’s not hard to see how some of these principles would positively correlate to a productive and happy workplace. A clean, content, non-violent workplace with disciplined staff who refrain from stealing, lying and wasting time is something all businesses should strive for.
However, the key takeaway for us has been the importance of attaining mindfulness through yoga: taking the time to breathe, look inwardly, reduce mind chatter (also known as ‘chitta vritti’) and view both the world and ourselves through an honest and rational lens. Our goal is to manifest this approach in everything we do at Ultimate Edge Communications; to bring a balanced, disciplined and positive mindset to work every day to deliver the consistent results our clients have come to count on us for.
“Yoga isn’t always easy”, says Michaela from UM Yoga. It can be physically and mentally testing. In fact, there’s an old saying that “the pose begins when you want to leave it”. However, at UEC, we’re always looking to give ourselves the edge and constantly improve. And we see yoga as an investment – both in our business and in our team.
Done the right way, the benefits of yoga extend far beyond the workplace. Studies have shown yoga practice can help to relieve stress, anxiety, inflammation and chronic pain, while improving flexibility, immunity, strength and sleep.
“The demands of work and home can have a stressful impact on employees,” says US yoga expert Kim Sin. “Even with the simplest forms of yoga and breathing, I can visually see the stress melting away in my corporate classes.
“When I teach in offices, people will come up to me and say, ‘I’ve been waiting for this all week!’.”
Click here if you’d like to learn more about what we’re doing to focus on wellbeing this September!
