Stretch, Breathe, Perform: How Weekly Chair Yoga Can Recharge Your Team

Let’s be honest—we’re not made to sit for eight hours a day, five days a week, hunched over laptops with coffee in one hand and a to-do list in the other. That’s where chair yoga steps in, ready to save the day (and your spine).

And what better time to talk about it than the International Day of Yoga on 21st June? While your team may not be quite ready for headstands in the boardroom (yet), a 20 to 25-minute chair yoga session once a week could be just the ticket to better posture, less stress, and more productivity.

Let’s dive into why chair yoga is the workplace wellbeing hero we all need.

What is Chair Yoga (and Why Is It Perfect for the Office)?

Chair yoga is exactly what it sounds like: a gentle form of yoga that can be done from the comfort of a chair. No yoga mats, no stretchy trousers, no awkward balancing poses. Just simple stretches, mindful breathing, and a chance to reset your body and brain without even leaving your desk.

Perfect for tight schedules, remote workers, and anyone who thinks yoga is “not for them.”

The Science Behind the Stretch

You might be thinking: can 20 minutes of stretching really make a difference? Well, studies show it absolutely can:

• Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Chair yoga helps lower cortisol levels (your body’s stress hormone), leading to calmer, more focused minds.

• Boosts Brain Function: Just one session of mindful movement can improve cognitive flexibility and decision-making. Goodbye, brain fog.

• Improves Posture and Reduces Pain: Regular movement counteracts the aches and niggles caused by sitting too long, especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

• Enhances Mood and Motivation: Movement boosts dopamine and serotonin levels—also known as your feel-good hormones. A happy brain means a more engaged team.

In short? A weekly chair yoga session is like hitting the mental refresh button.

The Business Case: Why HR Teams Love It

We know what you’re thinking: It sounds lovely, but does it actually work in a busy office? The answer is a resounding yes. Here’s why HR teams are adding chair yoga to their wellbeing calendars:

• Quick Wins – 25 minutes is short enough to fit into even the busiest day, but long enough to feel a difference.

• Low Barrier to Entry – No kit required, no change of clothes, no fuss.

• Inclusive – Accessible for all fitness levels and abilities.

• Culture Booster – Encourages team connection, shared experience, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Easy to Implement – Whether your team is remote, hybrid, or office-based, chair yoga works anywhere.

How to Celebrate International Day of Yoga at Work

Looking to do something special this 21st June? Here are a few easy and enjoyable ways to get involved:

1. Book a Chair Yoga Session – (We know a great team who can help with that.)

2. Create a Stretch Break Challenge – Encourage the team to take three mini movement breaks throughout the day.

3. Host a "Move & Mingle" Session – Combine gentle movement with a casual catch-up or coffee chat.

4. Send a Mindful Newsletter – Include simple breathing exercises or desk-friendly stretches.

5. Decorate Your Workspace – Bring in calming elements like greenery, ambient music, or soft lighting to encourage relaxation.

Final Stretch: Your Team Deserves to Feel Good

Wellbeing doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. A weekly chair yoga session might seem small, but the ripple effect is huge—from lower stress to better focus and a workplace culture that genuinely supports its people.

So this International Day of Yoga, why not roll out the... office chair? Your team’s shoulders (and minds) will thank you.

Ready to bring the calm to your calendar? At Treat Your Staff, we offer chair yoga sessions designed for busy teams and modern workplaces. Let’s help your people sit less, stretch more, and feel brilliant doing it.