Many organisations, particularly in forward thinking countries, are increasingly looking at the personal development of their staff in terms of their mental and physical health. They realise that if they invest time, money and resources in programmes to improve their employee’s mental and physical fitness, the benefits will be reciprocal and come back to them in terms of productivity.

We have an odd relationship with the mental and physical health in Britain. Our psychological framework and social conditioning through the centuries have left us slightly cynical about investing in our mind and body. We have a ‘stiff upper lip’ and a ‘grin and bear it’ attitude to dealing with stress. Under no circumstances do we ever talk about mental health.

Eastern practices of workplace Tai Chi (or Chi Kung) have been utilised for decades, to improve the health, well-being and productivity of employees. This is an area of growth in the West now, and many companies are offering services to UK business and organisations.

The United States of America have some of the leading business and personal development gurus in the world. This multi million dollar industry has spawned greats such as Steven Covey (best known for his publication ‘The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People), Anthony Robbins (e.g. ‘Awaken the Giant Within’) and more recently, Brian Tracy (e.g. The Success Mastery Academy). These people are great examples of the practical use of psychology to improve or professional and personal lives.