Polaris Introduces Sauna Allowance
In a groundbreaking move within the education sector, Polaris Inc. (headquartered in Sagamihara, Kanagawa, and led by CEO Kazuki Ishizuka) has become the first company in the tutoring industry to introduce a sauna allowance. This initiative, centered around its individual tutoring service "Second Challenge," aims to foster a culture of well-being and relaxation among its employees, ultimately enhancing the quality of education provided to students.
The tutoring environment, which requires deep personal engagement, can often come with high levels of stress. The physical and mental well-being of staff, including instructors and corporate employees, significantly impacts the effectiveness of the educational experience. Recognizing this, Polaris has designed the sauna allowance program as a new employee benefit to promote and support the well-being of each team member.
Under the new initiative, the company will support up to four sauna visits a month, including the use of hot springs, partially subsidizing the costs for eligible employees. This approach encourages employees to take time to refresh themselves and enjoy “time to adjust,” a concept that enhances their overall wellness.
In addition to the sauna allowance, Polaris has previously implemented other unique benefits such as a "club activity allowance," "childbirth allowance," and a program offering half-priced tutoring fees for employees' family members. This commitment is rooted in the company's philosophy of "unlocking human potential," aiming to reflect this principle within the workplace environment.
The sauna allowance is seen as a continuation of these efforts, providing employees with a means to maintain their physical and mental balance. When staff feel balanced and motivated, it creates a positive ripple effect that benefits the children they teach, establishing a healthier educational atmosphere.
Polaris aims to cultivate a culture that nurtures both employee well-being and educational quality, emphasizing the connection between a supportive work environment and enhanced learning outcomes. As the company continues to pioneer such innovative benefits within the education sector, it sets a precedent for others in the industry. In the coming months, Polaris plans to release a series of YouTube videos themed around sauna culture, further promoting the wellness experience they advocate within their organization.
Through this new wellness strategy, Polaris leads the charge in promoting a more mindful, health-oriented education sector, thus prioritizing not only the well-being of its employees but also the bright futures of the students they educate.