MAY marks Mental Health Awareness Month and with more businesses focusing on their staff wellbeing, a High Street optometrist in Walton-on-Thames has been sharing some valuable insights with the team to help support their mental health, including managing anxiety and stress in the workplace.

The demands of running a business add additional pressure to any business owner, plus ensuring the team are happy and working to their optimum is of utmost importance. The last few years have revealed an increase in people’s mental health conditions with anxiety and stress in the workplace being highlighted. Mital Patel, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Walton-on-Thames, revealed why he decided to train as a Breathing Instructor and share his new-found practice with colleagues.

Mital said: ‘I’m very interested in holistic practices, which may stem from my Indian heritage and cultural awareness. Also, I’m aware of the busy nature of life today and the fact that many people are juggling a lot of responsibilities, adding stress to their lives.

‘I studied research around nasal breathing and the benefits it can have for your physiological and mental health. So I trained in this technique as it’s a practice which aids physical and emotional wellbeing because it can help to activate the parasympathetic autonomic nervous system.

‘Referred to as ratio breathing, a more relaxed state can be achieved by inhaling to the count of four, exhaling to the count of four and then holding for four.

‘The team work incredibly hard, juggling various roles and responsibilities, so I decided to introduce this breathing technique to demonstrate how controlling your breath can help manage stress and anxiety, plus self-regulate while at work. So far, it seems to be having a really positive impact – which is great.’

During May the store is highlighting the importance of breathwork in supporting your overall wellbeing, plus raising awareness around managing mental health conditions.
To ensure your eyesight is in tip top condition Specsavers Walton-on-Thames offer over 18 eye clinics a week and seven weekly hearing clinics including ear wax removal.
You can call the team at Specsavers Walton-on-Thames on 01932 251960 or book an appointment online: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/waltononthames

During an eye test, Specsavers’ optometrists will assess your vision as well as check the overall health of your eyes so it’s important to have regular eye tests, even if you aren’t experiencing any eye issues or symptoms.