Why your desk might be hurting you - and how yoga can help

At BodhiWorks, we believe that wellbeing should be woven into the fabric of the working day—not reserved for evenings or weekends. One of the most overlooked threats to employee health is something deceptively simple: sitting.

Whether it’s hours spent at a desk or back-to-back meetings, prolonged sitting can take a serious toll on both physical and mental health. According to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accounted for 27% of all work-related ill health in 2023, with back and neck pain being among the most common complaints. These conditions don’t just cause discomfort—they lead to lost productivity, increased absenteeism, and long-term health issues.

But it’s not just the body that suffers. The pressure of modern work—tight deadlines, constant connectivity, and lack of movement—has contributed to a rise in work-related stress, anxiety, and depression, which now accounts for over half of all working days lost due to ill health in the UK.

The Gentle Power of Yoga

This is where on-site yoga can make a real difference. Gentle stretching and mindful movement help counteract the effects of sitting by:

• Improving posture and spinal alignment

• Releasing tension in the neck, shoulders, and lower back

• Boosting circulation and energy levels

• Reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity

Regular yoga practice has been shown to reduce the severity of musculoskeletal pain and improve mental wellbeing, making it a powerful preventative tool. And when offered as a drop-in option at work, it becomes accessible, inclusive, and easy to integrate into the day.

Fewer Sick Days, More Resilience

By investing in employee wellbeing through yoga, companies can expect:

• Fewer days lost to MSDs and stress-related illness

• Improved morale and engagement

• A culture that values health and balance

At BodhiWorks, we bring yoga to your workplace. Just space to move, breathe, and reconnect.