DSM-Firmenich’s Two-Day Wellness Walk: A Holistic Approach to Employee Well-Being

Snapshot:
DSM-Firmenich, a global leader in the fragrance and flavour industry, recently organised a two-day Wellness Walk for 30 employees. This initiative, filled with diverse wellness activities, coaching sessions, meditation, and nature connection, was designed to enhance employee well-being and promote a holistic approach to health within the workplace.

Client Overview:
Firmenich, part of the newly merged DSM-Firmenich, is known for its cutting-edge innovations in fragrances and flavours. With a heritage spanning over a century, DSM-Firmenich is committed to creating not only world-class products but also a positive and healthy work environment for its employees.

The Problem:
In today’s demanding corporate environment, employees often struggle with achieving work-life balance. Recognising this challenge, DSM-Firmenich sought to create an experience that would allow their team to recharge both mentally and physically. However, the company needed to ensure a balance of activities that would be inclusive, enjoyable, and beneficial for all participants, creating a welcoming environment for everyone involved.

The Solution:
DSM-Firmenich collaborated with Lisa Winn, a Holistic Health Coach and Corporate Wellness Consultant, to design a comprehensive two-day Wellness Walk. The retreat included a variety of activities such as meditation, breathing exercises, mindful walking, and nature-based mindfulness practices. Lisa Winn offered personalised sessions to help employees develop sustainable well-being practices. The goal was to provide a broad range of activities that would appeal to everyone, ensuring that each participant could find something beneficial and comfortable to engage with.

Results & Benefits:
The Wellness Walk was a tremendous success, with lasting impacts on participants. Employees reported significant improvements in their work-life balance, mental clarity, and a renewed connection with nature. The initiative not only boosted morale but also shows DSM-Firmenich’s dedication to employee well-being, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.

Participants shared how the experience led to long-term positive changes. One employee reflected, “Since the walk, I now make an effort to connect with nature daily, including touching and holding onto trees whenever possible. This practice has deepened my connection with the environment and has been a wonderful way to stay grounded.”

Another participant highlighted the lasting impact of the coaching sessions: “The coaching sessions during the walk were incredibly helpful. I found the coach's attentive listening to be very effective, and the insight that I shouldn’t be too hard on myself and should let things go was particularly beneficial. It provided me with valuable perspective and practical advice that I plan to apply moving forward.”

The mindful activities were also impactful, as noted by one employee: “The breath exercises and meditation sessions were highly influential for both my physical and mental state during the walk. They reminded me of the importance of maintaining a regular meditation practice and how it can positively affect my day-to-day life.”

Another participant emphasised the significance of the reflective elements of the walk, stating, “The most memorable part was actually the end when we all had to share why we joined the walk, points of improvement, and what we think we have benefited from this walk, as I felt like people were truly sharing.”

These testimonials reflect the deep and lasting impact that the Wellness Walk had on participants, illustrating how the combination of mindfulness, nature connection, and personal coaching can lead to meaningful, long-term change.

Conclusion & Call to Action:
DSM-Firmenich’s Wellness Walk highlights the value of a holistic approach to employee well-being. For companies aiming to foster a healthy, productive workforce, initiatives like these are essential. If you're considering a similar programme, start by understanding your team’s needs and work with experts like Lisa Winn to create a balanced and inclusive wellness experience.

Explore more about DSM-Firmenich's innovations and commitment to employee well-being on their official website.