Before Covid-19 came into our lives, stress had become an increasing problem with 11 million days a year lost at work due to work-related stress. This was a big concern for employers in the UK and worldwide. In 2015/16 37% of all work related ill health cases and 45% of all working days lost due to ill health were the result of stress. 42% reported they had considered resigning due to stress in the workplace. In addition, medium to large businesses have significantly higher rates of absence due to stress compared to small businesses.

 

Fast forward to a post covid world, where the majority of the population are back at work, following lockdowns and big shifts in working practice and we see a new type of stress - more complex than we have seen before. A study of 80,000 people conducted by UCL found that easing of restrictions has caused a spike in stress levels. Being back at work is not straightforward for a lot of us.  Worries about job security and childcare issues as well as genuine fears about earnings covering increasing living costs, all have the potential to cause anxiety in the workplace, which is not going to help with productivity. This is where reflexology comes in. It really is one of the most relaxing and tension relieving non-invasive treatments out there. The investment in workforce wellbeing comes with minimal risk, whilst helping people deal with the very real worries that affect us all in uncertain times. 

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Following treatments, clients often report feeling a sense of wellbeing, reduction in stress, tension and improvement in sleep. By offering reflexology treatments to your staff, you can empower your employees to make a healthy choice for their stress levels. They can pay for their own sessions or you can contribute some or all of the cost via voucher scheme or reimbursement. In return you get a workforce - which according to data collected in Denmark – has improved wellbeing, with lower absenteeism and a higher regard of your company as an employer.

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More recently I have started to offer reflexology to menopausal women in the workplace. A 2019 survey conducted by BUPA & the chartered institute for personnel & development (CIPD) found that 3 in 5 menopausal women - usually aged between 45 and 55 were negatively affected at work and that almost 900,000 women left their jobs over an undefined period of time because of menopausal symptoms. This is of detriment to any company because losing a member of staff, who will in many cases will be highly experienced & eligible for senior roles impacts negatively on productivity. As a reflexologist I have been able to support many women going through the menopause. Regular reflexology alongside some lifestyle changes can be the difference between embracing the important transition that is coming and feeling like you have no control at all. Of course I know that all women are different. Some will resist all medication, whilst others will seek a medical solution very quickly. Reflexology works with all decisions because the relaxation and balance it brings is hormonally beneficial for all stages of a woman’s journey.

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With high profile women like Davina McCall, Meg Matthews and balance app creator, Dr Louise Newson AKA The Menopause Doctor shining a light on the menopause and the threat of a surge in menopause claims, companies are now seeing that it makes sense to have provisions in place to support their female workforce. Reflexology is the perfect addition to this. Unlike reflexology for stress-relief, sessions cannot be shortened, but as with those sessions, we can find a financial agreement that works for you. 

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Before Covid-19 I visited Thrive Agency in Norwich, offering fifteen minute taster hand and feet reflexology sessions (depending on preference). Staff were offered a discount if they wanted a full session

at a later date. 

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As you can see from these testimonials, I left behind some very relaxed and happy staff:

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“An absolutely wonderful experience from start to finish, Nadine was professional, expert and made us all feel so relaxed. It’s a perfect way to incorporate a little bit of wellbeing into the workplace. And a fantastic introduction to the world of reflexology.”

 

“The session was just the right length to fit in a working day and was hugely relaxing, a particular help for me on one of the most stressful days I’ve had in a very long time. I emerged with my blood pressure about half of what it was when I went in! I would happily pay for future session if Nadine planned to make regular visits and would thoroughly recommend it for general staff wellbeing.”

 

“I’ve never had hand reflexology before, but the effect is just as good as reflexology: I felt very relaxed, balanced and thoroughly spoiled.”

 

"I’ve never had a reflexology session before this so I was quite nervous, but Nadine was super friendly and put me at ease right away. Despite still being in the office, Nadine helped to set a very soothing atmosphere and was very gentle - it was nice to get away from work for a bit!"

 

“Nadine is a talented therapist who gave me a good dose of feelgood on an otherwise grey day. She also provided some excellent tips on using reflexology pressure points to help settle my nerves before presentations – highly recommended.”

 

“I must confess, I was a bit sceptical about reflexology, but Nadine came to our office in the middle of an intensely stressful day, and by the end of our session I was feeling totally calm and relaxed. Would definitely recommend!”

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"My session with Nadine was very relaxing, she made me feel very comfortable and at ease, which really helped. Given that my session was in the office, and fairly short, I still felt the benefits of the time out."

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The World Health Organisation calls stress the “Health Epidemic of the 21st Century”. Most companies have realised how important the wellbeing of their staff is and have put a plan in place. Do you have a plan? Please do not hesitate to email me on: reflexologybynadine@gmail.com or call me on: 07853577866 to discuss how I can help you.

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