Meditation, once reserved for monks, is emerging as a transformative practice for professionals, helping them fight burnout

With increased screen time, back-to-back meetings and the constant scramble of the hustle culture, we need to consider – whether are we running the show, or just running. Workplace burnout is the price often paid for juggling high expectations, tight deadlines and the need to be available for work all the time - while disregarding personal health and wellbeing.

Understanding workplace burnout: Burnout is beyond the feeling of tiredness at the end of a busy day. It’s a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion, coupled with detachment, cynicism and reduced performance. The WHO officially recognised burnout as an ‘occupational phenomenon,’ signifying its critical impact on modern work-life. It affects mental clarity and emotional resilience and can even have physiological repercussions on heart health and sleep patterns.

Why meditation: Amid the workday, meditation offers an oasis – a moment to pause, reflect, and realign. The practice, often associated with monks and mountain retreats, is now being rediscovered in the boardroom. The reason is simple: meditation fosters the ability to be present, grounded and conscious of one’s thoughts and actions. Research has shown that regular meditation can alter brain activity, shifting it from the limbic system (responsible for our fight-or-flight responses) to the prefrontal cortex (the centre for rational thinking and calmness).

This neurological shift translates to a greater sense of control over stress, enabling clearer decision-making and enhancing focus. Yoga  emphasises how yogic, breathing and meditation techniques can lead to transformative wellbeing. Studies on Yoga have reported a positive impact on holistic wellbeing, with participants reporting reductions in anxiety, stress, and burnout by 72-82 per cent. This makes it an effective, research-backed solution for integrating meditation into workplace wellness.

Transforming work culture through yogic practices

The tangible benefits of meditation go beyond stress relief. In practice, this means a more focused team, resilient in the face of challenges, and more open to collaboration

Some organisations are already creating environments where wellness isn’t a perk but a pillar of their work culture. We need Buddhas in the boardroom.

How meditation rewrites your life script: Meditation is more than sitting in silence; it’s about training the mind to be resilient. Techniques such as deep breathing, guided protocols and visualisation help individuals develop a heightened state of non-judgemental awareness, balance emotions, and build a strong mental framework to manage stress effectively. One standout programme is YOI, which has garnered attention for its multifaceted approach to wellbeing. Imagine being able to handle feedback without feeling criticised or meeting a deadline without feeling panic – meditation offers a gateway to equanimity. As game-changers in the corporate world, meditative practices build the mental stamina to bounce back from setbacks, maintain composure under pressure, and approach situations with a growth mindset.

Meditation at work

Meditation in the workplace doesn’t require a meditation mat or a designated room; it just requires an integration of intention, emotion and awareness. Here are some strategies to help you get started: A few minutes of breathing or focusing on your senses can help reset your mental state. Begin your meetings with a minute of silence or guided breathing. It helps everyone clear their minds and be more present. As the world continues to spin, meditation serves as a reminder – that the power to pause and find a balance lies within.

(The writer is mental health researcher and the founder of Yoga of Immortals; views are personal)