The Importance of Workplace Wellbeing for Employers and Employees

In today’s fast-paced working world, the health and wellbeing of employees is no longer just a ‘nicety’. 

A healthy, supported workforce leads to better performance, greater engagement, and reduced time off taken for illness. For employers, investing in wellbeing strategies isn’t just about doing the right thing. It’s also about safeguarding productivity, and profitability too. 

According to figures from the Health & Safety Executive (2023/24), 1.7 million working people in the UK are suffering from a work-related illness. Alarmingly, 543,000 of these cases involve musculoskeletal disorders, which are often caused or worsened by poor posture, repetitive strain, or inadequate workplace ergonomics. These conditions don’t just affect an individual’s quality of life, it can also affect their overall working performance, as well as have a ripple effect on team performance and morale. 

The impact of poor workplace health is truly staggering. 33.7 million working days were lost in 2023/24 due to work-related illness and injury. That’s equivalent to thousands of hours of lost productivity, missed deadlines, and increased pressure on colleagues. The estimated £21.6 billion cost (2022/23) to UK businesses reflects the real price of neglecting employee health. 

One increasingly effective approach to employee wellbeing that we’re advocating for, is to integrate holistic and practical therapies such as Osteopathy, Massage Therapies and Reflexology into workplace wellbeing programmes and initiatives. These hands-on treatments offer more than just a moment of relaxation or relief - they can help to address the root causes of common workplace health issues, and create a happier, healthier work environment. 

Osteopathy

Osteopathy focuses on diagnosing and treating the musculoskeletal system - the bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues, that support movement and structure. Workplace conditions such as poor desk ergonomics, repetitive tasks, and physical strain can lead to chronic issues such as back pain, joint stiffness, and tension headaches. 

Our Osteopaths assess and treat these problems using a range of hands-on techniques which will help to improve posture, increase mobility and enhance blood-flow. For office-based employees, this might include targeted treatment for neck and lower back pain. 

For those in more physically demanding roles, Osteopathy can help prevent injuries through better body mechanics and alignment. In both cases, Osteopathy can reduce the need for time off and supports a faster return to work, ultimately improving both health outcomes and productivity. 

Massage Therapies 

Massage is well-known for its relaxing benefits. But in the workplace, its value goes much further. Massage can help reduce muscular tension, improve circulation, and ease the physical strain caused by repetitive or static postures. Importantly, it also plays a key role in managing stress, which is a major factor in workplace absenteeism.

Regular massage sessions can lead to reduced anxiety levels, better sleep quality, and improved mood - all of which contribute to greater focus, creativity, and resilience at work. For employees who are constantly “on the go” or under high pressure, massage can act as a much-needed reset, helping to maintain energy and prevent burnout.

Specifically at Balance 360, we offer a wide range of Massage Services to help target different needs and levels of pain or discomfort. For example, our Therapeutic Massage is a relaxation-focussed treatment, designed for general wellbeing and the upkeep of muscle maintenance. Our Remedial & Soft Tissue Massage is a targeted clinical massage, focusing on the outer layers of muscles, utilising varying pressures within massage strokes, depths and durations. 

Don’t be put off by our Deep Tissue & Sports Massage, because not only does it help target specific muscles, improve recovery and muscle function for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, it can provide a huge pain relief for anyone dealing with deep tissue aches and pains - that includes office employees and those working from home. 

Reflexology 

Reflexology is a holistic therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, which corresponds to different organs and systems in the body. While it can be seen as more of a gentle approach compared to the likes of Osteopathy and Massage, the effects can be profound. 

Reflexology is particularly effective in reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. It can support improved sleep, digestion, and energy levels - all of which impact performance and morale. In workplace settings, Reflexology can be a convenient, non-invasive option that delivers noticeable improvements in both mental and physical wellbeing.

Discounted services with a Simplyhealth policy 

At Balance 360, we believe in providing affordable and accessible health and wellbeing solutions to our clients. That’s why we’re highlighting Simplyhealth, a health plan that offers discounted rates on many of our key services mentioned in this article, including Osteopathy, Reflexology, and more.

Employers can additionally invest in a Simplyhealth plan, supporting the team with affordable health plans that address the root causes of absenteeism, all while improving wellbeing, productivity, and peace of mind. With a tailored plan in place, employees are able to claim money back on a number of the services we offer. 

Not only that, if you have a Simplyhealth policy, you can automatically get a 10% discount on all services by quoting Simplyhealth, and providing the proof of your plan. 

Workplace wellbeing is a strategic investment in people 

By promoting services such as Osteopathy, Massage, and Reflexology, employers demonstrate a genuine commitment to their people. These therapies don’t just treat symptoms - they help prevent illness, boost recovery, and empower employees to take control of their health.

The return on investment is clear: fewer sick days, reduced workplace injuries, higher engagement, and a stronger, more resilient workforce. In a world where employee expectations are evolving, businesses that prioritise wellbeing are more likely to attract and retain top talent, and thrive as a result.

Workplace wellbeing is not a trend. It's a necessity. Put your people first with Balance 360.