Yoga In The Corporate World

The trend in corporate yoga has become prevalent in the last 25 years as more and more companies have turned to organized wellness programs in an effort to lower their employee health care costs. The list of corporate entities that offer regular yoga sessions to their employees or yoga sessions during corporate retreats include: MTV Networks, IBM, AT&T, Nike, HBO, Forbes, Apple, PepsiCo, General Electric, and Chase Manhattan Bank.

What Added Benefits Does Corporate Yoga Carry?

Corporations that make yoga part of their company policy find that they have healthier employees who take fewer sick days. The yoga sessions contribute to a sense of team building. Consequently team productivity increases with employees exhibiting better morale and stronger camaraderie. All of these factors add to an overall reduction of stress in the office. Among other benefits related to yoga, creativity at work, better mental clarity and improved focus are all mentioned.

What Is The Costs Involved For The Corporation?

Although rates vary with instructors, number of students usually assesses fees for a yoga class at work. An average rate for 15 students for an hour-long session would be around $5 to $10 per person. It is common to negotiate a package deal for a given number of sessions that may result in a better price point. Private classes for an individual lasting from one hour to 90 minutes will run from $80 to $100.

Normally students are expected to provide their own yoga mats. The corporate entity will need to provide a warm, open space with adequate room for movement. Boardrooms, large meeting rooms, lobbies (normally after business hours), or even roof top decks can be utilized. Yoga instructors who work in the corporate environment are usually prepared to give sessions early in the morning, during lunch, or after hours.