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 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!
