Importance of Functional Health & Wellness for Employees
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining overall health and wellness often feels like a monumental challenge, especially in the workplace. Employees spend a significant portion of their lives at work, making it critical to address their well-being not just for their personal health but also for the success of the organization. What if the key to a healthier, more productive workforce was understanding and improving functional wellness?
Functional wellness is more than just physical fitness; it’s a holistic approach that evaluates and optimizes the interconnected systems of the body and mind. By focusing on the eight core domains of functional health — movement health, breathing quality, nutritional awareness, body composition, physical activity, injury history, sleep quality, and behavioral health — functional wellness provides a comprehensive roadmap for improving overall quality of life and workplace performance.
Why Functional Wellness Matters for Employees
Enhanced Productivity: According to research, employees in good health are up to 25% more productive. Functional wellness programs help employees perform better by addressing physical, mental, and emotional barriers that could impede their efficiency.
Reduced Absenteeism: The CDC reports that productivity losses linked to absenteeism cost U.S. employers $225.8 billion annually. Functional wellness initiatives can reduce absenteeism by preventing chronic conditions and managing stress effectively.
Improved Retention: Employees who feel cared for are more likely to remain loyal to their organizations. Functional wellness programs demonstrate that employers prioritize the well-being of their workforce, fostering engagement and satisfaction.
Cost Savings: For every dollar spent on wellness programs, employers save an average of $3.27 in healthcare costs. Preventative approaches like functional wellness can mitigate costly medical claims and improve overall health outcomes.
The Eight Domains of Functional Wellness
Let’s break down the key domains that contribute to functional wellness:
Movement Health: Assessing mobility, balance, and coordination to ensure employees can perform daily tasks efficiently.
Breathing Quality: Evaluating and improving breathing patterns for better oxygenation, focus, and stress management.
Nutritional Awareness: Understanding dietary habits and encouraging smarter food choices to fuel productivity and energy.
Body Composition: Striking a balance between muscle and fat to support optimal health and workplace stamina.
Physical Activity: Promoting regular exercise to boost morale and reduce sedentary risks.
Injury History: Addressing past injuries to prevent future complications and improve functionality.
Sleep Quality: Prioritizing rest and recovery to enhance cognitive performance and decision-making.
Behavioral Health: Promoting mental clarity and emotional resilience to manage workplace challenges effectively.
How Symmio Supports Employee Wellness
At Symmio, we believe that healthier employees make for stronger organizations. Our platform combines evidence-based assessments and personalized recommendations to help optimize health across all eight domains. Here’s how:
Comprehensive Assessments: Symmio’s tools evaluate functional wellness and provide actionable insights for employees and employers.
Customized Wellness Programs: Tailored plans guide employees step-by-step toward improved health and productivity.
Continuous Monitoring: Regular reassessments ensure employees stay on track and allow adjustments as needed.
Taking the First Step
Functional wellness isn’t a one-time fix; it’s a continuous journey that benefits both employees and employers. By investing in the functional health of your workforce, you’re creating a foundation that supports productivity, satisfaction, and long-term success. With Symmio, you’re not just improving wellness — you’re building a thriving workplace culture.
Are you ready to embrace wellness fully in your organization? Take the first step today and discover how functional wellness can transform your workforce and business outcomes. Schedule a demo and let our experts help you.