Measuring the effect of a yoga-based positive psychology intervention on positive and negative indicators of employee well-being in the higher education context

Abstract

Orientation: A variety of factors have contributed to an increase in work stress among academic and administrative staff in higher education institutions in South Africa. This has a negative impact on the mental health and well-being of employees and thus on organisational performance. Research purpose: This study measured the efficacy of a yoga-based positive psychology intervention (PPI) in improving well-being and reducing levels of perceived stress among a sample of employees in this context. Motivation for the study: The literature showed that a multifaceted programme focussed on psychological strengths could provide an optimal long-term strategy for promoting employee well-being. Research approach/design and method: Participants comprised 46 adults employed in an open-distance learning university who were invited to participate in a 36-week yoga-based PPI. The Mental Health Continuum Short Form, International Positive and Negative Affect Schedule Short Form, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and Perceived Stress Scale were used to measure positive and negative indicators of well-being. The measures were completed at four time points, and the Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for the repeated measures analysis. Main findings: The study’s findings showed improvement in overall mental health, emotional well-being and work vigour as well as reduced negative affect and perceived stress at the study’s conclusion. Other improvements in well-being were observed only at the mid-point of the study. Practical/managerial implications: The success of a holistic workplace wellness programme that emphasises flourishing requires a long-term duration, and an on-site and in-person presentation. Employee commitment and organisational support are essential. Contribution/value-add: The findings show that a yoga-based intervention can help promote emotional well-being, enhance energy levels and mental resilience at work, reduce perceived stress, and minimise negative emotions, thereby demonstrating a strategy for a successful wellness intervention.