If Only… has released a statement containing helpful tips on how to stay stress and anxiety-free while working from home and invites agents to join in with their virtual yoga sessions.
Statement in full below:
We are currently experiencing changes in every aspect of our lives, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the worldwide community.
The travel industry in particular is facing challenges from every angle, as we work to adjust to the new ‘normal’ whilst simultaneously managing the endless queries and amendments coming our way. It’s hardly surprising, therefore, that many of us are struggling from elevated levels of stress and anxiety, and it’s essential that we take sufficient time out for self-care.
Luxury tour operator If Only have strived to support staff over the past few weeks in offering complimentary yoga and mindfulness sessions to their team. These virtual sessions, hosted every lunchtime on Facebook, have proved extremely popular with staff as a way to turn off and refocus.
Susan Greenhorn, If Only Product & Commercial Manager for Arabia and Indian Ocean, shares her experience: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the yoga and meditation sessions which management have organised for us. I love having the chance to just get away from my laptop for 30 minutes each day and de-stress from all that’s going on at the moment, with the pressures of work and the outside world. Taking time out to learn yoga and mindfulness has definitely helped keep me calm through some stressful situations, and it’s something I think I’ll keep up once normality resumes.”
This positive response from the If Only team has prompted the luxury operator to extend the offering to their valued agent partners, who have been so supportive during this challenging time. If Only is inviting agents to head over to their main Facebook page next Thursday at 12:30pm (7th of May) and join in with a live virtual yoga session, with everything from beginners moves to breathing techniques on offer.
If Only CEO, Andy Freeth, shares his views on the importance of taking time out: “It’s absolutely crucial that we all take some time for ourselves at the minute. I’m extremely proud of the whole If Only team, who have been working tirelessly every day throughout this situation to assist our agents and their customers, and we owe it to them to support them in taking care of their mental health. Lunchtime yoga and mindfulness sessions are live streamed on Facebook, with all videos saved for later, so the team can utilise the techniques and take a breather at any time, whenever they feel they need to.
“It’s been great to see everyone get involved, and as a result, we decided to extend the session to our agent partners and suppliers next Thursday. I’d encourage anyone who can to make time to tune in. It’s incredible how much of an impact half an hour of relaxation techniques can help in a busy day, and it’s fair to say everyone working in travel could do with a breather at this time minute!”
To join the yoga session, head over to the If Only main Facebook Page (@ifonlyholidays) at 12:30pm on Thursday 7th May, where a live stream will take place.
