Want to give your business a boost? Give your employees a break
Posted by Medavie Blue Cross on July 12, 2022
Want to give your business a boost? Give your employees a break
Posted by Medavie Blue Cross on July 12, 2022
Want to promote the health of your employees and the health of your organization? Encourage your employees to use their holiday allowances over the summer months.
Medical research shows a direct correlation between taking a break from work and enhancing one’s physical and mental wellbeing. The health benefits of holidays include less stress, a healthier heart and better mental health.
Lowers risk of heart attack, disease
In one of the most comprehensive studies on cardiovascular disease, the Framingham Heart Study found that employees who vacationed regularly were less at risk of heart attack or cardiovascular disease, compared to those who did not take time off.
In fact, men who did not vacation for several years had a 30 per cent higher chance of suffering a heart attack, while women who vacationed only once every six years or less were eight times more likely to develop or suffer from a heart attack or disease than women who vacationed at least twice a year.
Improves mental wellbeing
Other studies make a direct link between vacation leave and mental wellness. For example, a survey of 1,500 rural women by the Marshfield Clinic, found that those who vacationed less than once every two years were more vulnerable to suffer from depression and stress compared to women who vacationed at least twice a year.
Another study by the Brain Health Center Inc. revealed that holiday travel promotes brain health and mental resilience.
Promotes creativity, increases productivity
Medical research also makes a clear connection between giving employees paid time off and improving organizational performance. That’s because vacationing employees are likely to return to work with clearer heads and fresh perspectives. This, in turn, can lead to creative ideas and ultimately innovative solutions. Want to foster creativity and productivity in the workplace? Let your employees relax and return to you full of energy and ready to create!
Supports recruitment and retention
Vacation can also be an essential tool in retention and recruitment efforts. According to a survey by e-commerce firm Rakuten.ca, nearly six in 10 (57 per cent) of Canadians would trade more vacation time over a salary increase. Younger workers, in particular, regard paid time off as an important part of their compensation package.
In summary, the scientific evidence is clear: holidays are an investment that pays healthy dividends for your employees and your organization.
Medavie Blue Cross is a premier all-in-one carrier that provides health, dental, travel, life and disability benefits and administers federal and provincial government-sponsored health programs. Together with Medavie Health Services, we are part of Medavie, a health solutions partner committed to improving the wellbeing of Canadians. We are in the...