The Importance of Sleep in the Workplace: How Corporates Can Address Poor Sleep Habits
World Sleep Day is celebrated on the third Friday of March every year to raise awareness about the importance of sleep and the many benefits it offers to our health and well-being. This year, it falls on March 18th.
Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining good physical, mental, and emotional health. It is one of the three essential components of a healthy lifestyle, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, in today’s fast-paced and hyperconnected world, getting a good night’s sleep has become a luxury for many.
According to the World Sleep Society, over 45% of the world’s population suffers from some form of sleep disorder, including insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. Poor sleep quality can lead to a host of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
The impact of poor sleep quality is not limited to our health; it also affects our productivity, particularly in the workplace. Sleep-deprived employees are more likely to experience fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, which can significantly impact their job performance.
Mr. Kapil Udaiwal, Chief Human Resources Officer at Ageas Federal Life Insurance, says, “A sound, restful sleep is essential for maintaining good physical, mental and emotional health. Sleep helps the mind and body finish their back-office corrective and restorative functions, so you wake up refreshed.”
Suresh Amin, Head of HR, India Business at JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals, adds, “Good and timely sleep has been known to improve immunity and productivity. Therefore, prioritizing good sleep hygiene is not just a personal choice but a strategic investment in enhancing employee productivity and well-being.”
To address this issue, corporates can take steps to promote healthy sleep habits among their employees. Amit Vasistha, Founder and CEO of GALF, a wellness-tech platform for corporates, suggests various mindfulness practices and wellness programs to promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and improve sleep quality.
“Companies can encourage healthy sleep habits among employees by providing education and resources on sleep hygiene. This may include information on the importance of maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine and electronics before bedtime,” says Amit.
Employers could also create a culture that values work-life balance and prioritizes employee well-being by offering flexible work arrangements, encouraging employees to take breaks throughout the day, and reducing workload or time pressure. They could provide access to employee assistance programs or mental health resources to support employees who may be struggling with sleeplessness due to underlying mental health issues.
“In this current information age, sleeplessness is a very common effect of anxiety and stress. Practising techniques such as Yoga Needra, NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest) and Breath Exercises help in better sleep, allowing you to wake up feeling more rested and contributing to your overall well-being.” says Mr. Kapil Udaiwal.
In conclusion, corporates have a vital role to play in promoting healthy sleep habits among their employees. By creating a workplace environment that supports good sleep hygiene and prioritizes employee well-being, they can enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism, and ultimately drive better business outcomes. As Amit Vasistha rightly puts it, “Sleep is an investment in your health, and companies that prioritize sleep will see the returns in their workforce’s productivity and engagement.”
