(Photo: Reuters)

Promoting spirituality in the workplace impacts individuals and teams positively as it builds a sense of community, cultivates compassion, strengthens values and provides a support system for those faced with personal trials, says one minister.

According to Jesuit priest Fr Aristotle Dy, who serves as President of Xavier School in the Philippines, organisations need to place importance on the development of their workforce because people bring their entire selves to work - body, mind and spirit.

"It is normal for people to seek a sense of security in their work, not only in terms of their job but perhaps in their level of happiness, morale, and connection with their team and the other individuals they face at work," he said.

Fr Dy suggested the implementation of 'generic' spiritual activities in the workplace so as not to leave out those who belong to a different religion or denomination.

He suggested that organisations hold special talks and activities to coincide with religious festivals or important dates to provide an avenue for those who want to share their faith beliefs and practices with their co-workers.

Providing a place in which employees can worship or meditate is also a good investment for companies, he said, because this can serve as a refuge and a place of prayer for those who need some time out.

Having meditation and quiet sessions similarly encourage workers to have moments of silence to reflect, and have a positive effect on employees because wisdom can be gained in silence, he said. They can also be enjoyed by individuals regardless of religion, he noted.

Fr Dy suggested organising company retreats as a way of increasing the bond between co-workers by giving them opportunities to share experiences with each other.

Numerous experts on productivity in the workplace have acknowledged the importance of giving room to spirituality.

Read more from the original source:

Spirituality in the workplace boosts morale, values among employees