Last updated: 13 May 2024 04:00 Posted in:
Author: Muhammad Bilal (MBA, B. Com Hons) is an accounting and finance professional with over two decades of experience, working as a Senior consultant with M B Dean, West Yorkshire.
Each year since 2001, the Mental Health Foundation has been leading Mental Health Awareness Week - bringing together the UK to focus on getting good mental health. This year’s theme is “Movement: Moving more for our mental health”.
It is crucial for us, as accounting and finance professionals, to recognise the importance of movement in maintaining our mental wellbeing. This year's theme, "Movement: Moving more for our mental Health," resonates with the demands of our profession and the well-being of our teams.
In the fast pace of our industry, it can be easy to overlook the significance of movement. We often confine ourselves to desks, buried in numbers and spreadsheets, neglecting the vital connection between physical activity and mental health. However, perhaps this year we can embrace the theme “Movement: Moving more for our mental health” to help us shift our perspective and embrace movement as an integral part of our daily routines, not as an additional task, but, as a necessity.
By doing so, we can advocate for mental wellbeing. Let us lead by example and encourage our colleagues to prioritise movement. Here are a few simple yet effective tips to incorporate movement into your day:
Moments for Movement: Utilise your lunch break to step outside and engage in some physical activity. For example, a brisk walk or a brief meditation/breathing exercise can rejuvenate both body and mind.
Move your Way: Take advantage of technology and conduct meetings in outdoor settings whenever possible (weather permitting!). Fresh air and natural surroundings can enhance productivity and creativity.
Stretch and Move: Combat the sedentary nature of desk work by incorporating regular stretching exercises into your routine. Simple stretches can alleviate tension and improve circulation.
Rhythmic Chores: Make household chores more enjoyable by playing music and dancing along. It's a fun way to stay active while completing daily tasks.
Remember, the benefits of movement extend beyond individual wellbeing; they impact the entire workplace. Research by the Mental Health Foundation indicates that a significant portion of adults struggle to find time for movement amidst their busy schedules. However, integrating moments for movement into our daily lives is more achievable than we might think.
Also, have you considered changing your work environment? Changing our environment can significantly influence our mood and perspective. By prioritising movement, we not only enhance our own mental health but also create a positive atmosphere conducive to client interactions and professional success.
Let us benefit from this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week and let us reflect on how we can support our colleagues and teams. Don't hesitate to seek external support if needed. Initiating conversations about mental health is the first step towards fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
Let's embrace the theme of Movement for Mental Health and make it a cornerstone of our professional ethos. Together, we can create healthier, happier, and more productive workplaces.
Remember, movement matters!
"In the fast pace of our industry, it can be easy to overlook the significance of movement. We often confine ourselves to desks, buried in numbers and spreadsheets, neglecting the vital connection between physical activity and mental health."
Muhammad Bilal, Senior Consultant, M B Dean