Workplace wellness refers to the education and activities that a worksite may do to promote healthy lifestyles for employees and their families. Workplace wellness programs can increase productivity, decrease absenteeism and raise employee morale.

Because employees like you spend many of their waking hours at work, the workplace is an ideal setting to address health and wellness issues. While it is an employer’s job to implement general wellness policies, there are a number of things employees can do to supplement health initiatives.

Specifically, to improve physical and mental health and to enhance their employer’s wellness programs, you should do the following:

1. Eat sensibly. It’s easy to snack at work, particularly if your office is equipped with vending machines. When it comes to healthy eating, moderation is key. Eat a healthy, filling breakfast and substitute greasy food with salads.
2. Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can cause ill effects, such as drowsiness and sluggishness. Aim to drink between six and eight glasses of water every day. Doing so can even reduce hunger.
3. Stop smoking. Tobacco use increases your risk for heart disease, cancer, stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Abstaining from tobacco is one of the best ways to protect your health and get the most out of wellness programs you participate in.
4. Manage your stress. Too much stress can lead to insomnia, anxiety, depression, low morale, short temper, headaches and back problems. Finding ways to manage stress will not only improve your physical and mental health, but it can also help you approach wellness initiatives with a positive mindset.