Over 2,400 Australian workers were surveyed in the 2024 Gallagher Workplace Wellbeing Index, and 74% reported that wellbeing initiatives directly affected their engagement and productivity. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2022 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing found that nearly half of all working-age Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime, highlighting the urgent need for proactive support in the workplace.
As the lines between work and life continue to blur, especially with the rise of hybrid and remote work, organisations are recognising that supporting wellbeing is essential for attracting and retaining talent, reducing absenteeism, and boosting performance. Mind-body practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga are gaining traction as practical, evidence-based ways to support health, happiness, and productivity.
The State of Employee Wellbeing in Australia
Australian workplaces are facing a wellbeing challenge. According to the 2025 Intellect Workplace Wellbeing Benchmark Report, only 62% of employees rate their mental health as “good” or “very good,” while 1 in 5 report feeling stressed or overwhelmed at work most days.
The Australian Government’s National Baseline Report for Mentally Healthy Workplaces found that psychological distress and burnout are on the rise, with absenteeism and presenteeism costing Australian businesses billions each year.
Safe Work Australia’s 2024 report highlights that psychological injuries now account for 9% of all serious workers’ compensation claims, with the average time off work for mental health-related claims exceeding 30 days.
The shift to hybrid and remote work has brought both benefits and challenges. While flexibility can improve work-life balance, it can also lead to isolation and blurred boundaries, making proactive wellbeing support more important than ever.
Organisations that invest in wellbeing see measurable benefits: higher engagement, lower turnover, and improved productivity. The message is clear; supporting employee wellbeing is good for people and good for business.
The Science Behind Mind–Body Practices
Mind-body practices work by engaging both the mind and the body to reduce stress and promote overall wellbeing. When you practise mindfulness, meditation, or yoga, you activate the body’s relaxation response, which lowers heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and calms the nervous system.
Australian research from Phoenix Australia and the Black Dog Institute has shown that regular engagement in these practices can decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol, improve emotional regulation, and enhance cognitive function. Brain imaging studies reveal that mindfulness and meditation can increase grey matter in areas related to attention and emotional control. These physiological changes can help employees feel calmer, more focused, and better equipped to handle workplace challenges.
What Are Mind–Body Practices?
Mind-body practices are activities that help people connect their thoughts, emotions, and physical wellbeing. Popular examples include mindfulness meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and guided relaxation.
Mindfulness, which has roots in Buddhist traditions, is now widely practised in secular settings across Australia. Yoga, originating from ancient India, combines movement, breath, and meditation to support physical and mental health. Breathing exercises and guided relaxation can be easily integrated into the workday, requiring little time or equipment.
These practices have been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and boost resilience. In the workplace, mind-body practices help employees manage stress, enhance creativity, and foster a more positive team culture. Australian organisations are increasingly adapting these practices to suit diverse workforces, offering short sessions, online resources, and culturally inclusive approaches.
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves concentration and focus
- Boosts emotional resilience
- Enhances creativity and problem-solving
- Supports better sleep and physical health
- Fosters a positive and inclusive workplace culture
Why Mind–Body Practices Work
Australian research is building a strong case for mind-body practices at work. The Gallagher Workplace Wellbeing Index (2024) found that employees who regularly engage in mindfulness or yoga report 30% lower stress levels and 25% higher job satisfaction than those who do not.
Safe Work Australia’s Psychological Health and Safety report (2024) highlights that workplaces offering meditation or relaxation programs see a reduction in absenteeism and improved team morale. The National Mental Health Commission notes that mind-body interventions can help prevent psychological injury and support recovery from stress-related conditions.
Even short, daily practices – like a five-minute breathing exercise – can make a noticeable difference in mood and focus. These findings show that mind-body practices are not just “nice to have”, but rather a practical, proven way to support wellbeing in Australian workplaces.
Practical Strategies for Healthier Workplaces
Integrating mind-body practices into the workplace doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Many Australian organisations are already seeing results by making small, sustainable changes. Here are some practical strategies to get started:
- Offer regular mindfulness or meditation sessions, either in person or online. Start with a short, guided session once a week and invite staff to share feedback.
- Encourage “micro-breaks” for breathing exercises or gentle stretching. Provide simple instructions or videos and remind staff to take breaks during long meetings.
- Provide access to yoga classes or guided relaxation apps. Partner with local instructors or offer subsidies for popular wellbeing apps.
- Create quiet spaces for reflection or relaxation. Even a small, dedicated room can make a big difference.
- Share resources and tips on mind-body wellbeing in newsletters or team meetings. Highlight success stories and practical tips from staff.
- Invite guest speakers or wellbeing experts for workshops. Consider topics like stress management, sleep, or nutrition alongside mind-body practices.
- Support flexible work arrangements to help employees balance work and life. Encourage staff to set boundaries and model healthy work habits.
- Establish a wellbeing committee or “wellbeing champions” to drive initiatives and gather feedback.
- Celebrate participation and progress. Recognise teams or individuals who engage with wellbeing programs.
Overcoming Barriers and Fostering a Supportive Culture
While the benefits are clear, some organisations may face barriers in creating a supportive and open culture, such as time constraints, scepticism, or lack of resources, while others may worry about inclusivity or whether staff will engage. The key to employee wellbeing is to start small and build momentum. Leaders and HR teams can foster a supportive culture by:
- Leading by example, take part in wellbeing activities and share your experiences.
- Normalising conversations about mental health and stress. Use regular check-ins and open forums.
- Providing training for managers on supporting employee wellbeing and recognising signs of stress.
- Recognising and celebrating participation in mind-body initiatives. Share stories and successes widely.
- Gathering feedback and adapting programs to suit staff needs. Use surveys, suggestion boxes, or informal chats.
- Ensuring inclusivity, make activities accessible to all employees, including remote and shift workers.
- Partnering with diverse wellbeing providers to reflect the backgrounds and interests of your workforce.
- Encouraging peer support and buddy systems to help staff feel connected.
- Reviewing policies to support flexible work and wellbeing leave.
When leaders champion wellbeing and create a culture of openness, employees are more likely to take part and receive help from mind-body practices. Ongoing adaptation is key – what works for one team may not suit another, so regular feedback and flexibility are essential.
Over time, these efforts can transform the workplace into a healthier, happier, and more productive environment for everyone. By making wellbeing a shared responsibility, organisations can build trust, boost morale, and create lasting positive change.
A Healthier Future for Australian Workplaces
Supporting employee wellbeing is one of the best investments an organisation can make. Mind-body practices offer practical, proven ways to reduce stress, boost engagement, and create a positive workplace culture.
By embracing mind-body wellbeing, organisations can build workplaces where people truly thrive, whether in the office, at home, or somewhere in between. The future of work in Australia is bright when we prioritise wellbeing, inclusion, and connection. Why not start today and make your workplace a place where everyone can flourish?
