Workplace wellness includes all those activities and programs implemented at the corporate level with the aim of helping employees feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Examples are stress management, weight loss, fitness, and medical screening programs.

This sector is currently worth $60.1 billion, corresponding to less than 1% of the global health and wellness industry, and is projected to grow at a 5.8% CAGR during the next five years.¹³ Large and small companies are offering these programs to their employees primarily with the purpose of increasing productivity, reducing health-related absenteeism, and as a means to attract new talents.

Presently, ceramics and glass find no direct application in these programs, but they still have a significant role in general workplace wellness because they are commonly used in corporate presents given to employees to boost motivation, morale, relaxation, and self care. Indeed, most corporate wellness gifts include items such as candle holders, ceramic essential oil diffusers, aromatherapy mist bottles, tea carafes, mugs, fitness trackers, and sunlight lamps.

Holistic health: Conclusions

There are numerous ways ceramics and glass contribute to the $6.2 trillion health and wellness industry. Since their origins many thousands of years ago, people have adapted these materials to the changing times. Rooted in solid foundations, yet not afraid to experiment with innovative technologies and products, manufacturers of ceramics and glass will continue to take on new challenges to help the health and wellness industry flourish.

About the author
Margareth Gagliardi is owner of AMG NewTech (Charlottesville, Va.), a firm focusing on custom market research, technical studies, and consulting in advanced materials and emerging technologies. For more information, contact her at margarethg@earthlink.net.

Read more of the cover feature with each of the links below, or CLICK HERE to leave this article and continue reading the rest of the issue.

• Factors driving demand in the health and wellness industry
• Sport, fitness, and recreational activities
• Traditional, complementary, preventive, and personalized medicine
• Wellness tourism
• Nutrition and weight management
• Beauty and personal care
• Wellness real estate
• Mental and spiritual wellbeing
• Workplace wellness