Dr. Esther Sternberg, a medical doctor, is a pioneer in blending medical science with architecture and design, paving the way for enhanced well-being and productivity in workspaces.

She's the Research Director at Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, and Founding Director at University of Arizona Institute on Place, Wellbeing & Performance. Her notable work with the U.S. General Services Administration on wearable devices informs post-COVID workspace design. She's advised several prestigious institutions on design and health. Author of "Healing Spaces" and the new "WELL at WORK," her work drives the design-health movement into the post-COVID era, showcasing how integrative health in workspaces can boost physical health, emotional wellbeing, and productivity.

In this episode, Gayathri and Dr. Sternberg discuss the elements of an effective workspace, both at home and in offices.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Health in Workspaces: Beyond good ventilation and filtration, a holistic approach to workspace wellness extends to enhancing emotional and physical well-being.
• Intentionality in Workplace Relationships: Dr. Sternberg draws a parallel between the spirituality in the Japanese tea ceremony and the intentionality required in fostering nurturing workplace relationships and designing a workplace that helps design peoples health.
• Seven Domains of Integrative Health: Engaging in all seven domains of integrative health significantly impacts wellness and resilience, offering a robust foundation for workspace design.
• The Future of Office Spaces: The evolution towards creating inviting, well-being-centric spaces that foster community, social interactions, and support among employees in a hybrid work era.
• Open Office Spaces: The lesser known benefits of well designed open office designs including an increase in physical activity and reduction in stress levels.

📚Resources:

Books:

• "Healing Spaces: The Science of Place and Well-Being" by Dr. Esther Sternberg
• "Well at Work, Creating Well-Being in Any Workspace" by Dr. Esther Sternberg
• Check out the blog post for the complete list of resources shared in this episode.

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