Rediscovering the Benefits of Returning to the Office

As the world continues to cautiously navigate its way out of the pandemic era, discussions about the future of work are at the forefront of organisational agendas. While remote work has undeniably proven its efficacy, there's a growing realisation of the invaluable benefits associated with encouraging employees back into the office environment. Beyond mere productivity metrics, this shift signifies a holistic approach to employee wellbeing, encompassing physical, emotional, and psychological dimensions.

Physical Benefits

Returning to the office offers a welcome departure from sedentary home setups. The physical act of commuting, whether by walking, cycling, or public transport, injects movement into daily routines, promoting cardiovascular health and reducing the risks of a sedentary lifestyle. Moreover, the office setting often provides ergonomic workstations designed to support posture, reducing the likelihood of musculoskeletal issues prevalent in makeshift home offices.

Emotional Benefits

Human beings are inherently social creatures, thriving on interpersonal connections. The office environment fosters camaraderie and facilitates spontaneous interactions that are vital for emotional wellbeing. Water cooler conversations, impromptu brainstorming sessions, and shared lunches contribute to a sense of belonging and camaraderie, combating feelings of isolation and loneliness prevalent in prolonged remote work setups. The emotional support garnered from colleagues can act as a buffer against stress and burnout, enhancing overall resilience.

Psychological Benefits

Even pre-pandemic, we were witnessing the emergence of a global mental health crisis; one borne of the insidious isolating nature of a digital world, that one could argue has led to increased levels of disconnection, reduced social engagement, and compromised our overall wellbeing.

In this regard, the return to the office holds significant implications for psychological health, particularly concerning the stimulation of the vagus nerve. This cranial nerve plays a crucial role in regulating the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for inducing relaxation responses. Face-to-face interactions and non-verbal cues encountered in the office environment stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting feelings of safety and trust. Additionally, the structured routine associated with office work can provide a sense of stability and purpose, mitigating feelings of aimlessness and anxiety prevalent in remote work scenarios.

The office serves as a hub for social engagement, facilitating both professional and personal connections. Collaborative projects foster teamwork and skill-sharing, bolstering morale and job satisfaction. Moreover, social interactions in the workplace have been linked to increased creativity and innovation, as diverse perspectives converge to tackle challenges. Beyond work-related interactions, the office setting offers opportunities for informal socialising, celebrating milestones, and cultivating friendships that extend beyond professional realms.

It’s not just about being back in the office

Encouraging employees back into the office represents more than a return to pre-pandemic norms; it signifies a commitment to holistic employee wellbeing. By prioritising physical health, emotional resilience, and psychological vitality, organisations can create thriving work environments conducive to individual and collective success. As we embrace this renaissance of workplace culture, let us recognise the profound impact of social engagement and overall wellbeing in shaping the future of work.