Corporate Yoga in Japan: Why More Companies Are Embracing Wellness
Supporting Workplace Wellbeing Through Mindful Movement
In recent years, a quiet revolution has been taking place in offices across Japan. From Tokyo startups to traditional Kyoto-based companies, more businesses are turning to corporate yoga as a way to support their employees’ mental and physical wellbeing.
When we started providing Corporate Yoga 11 years ago, we didn’t get any calls. I spoke with multiple CEOs in different industries. They seemed interested, but we got a lot of negative feedback:
“Using company money for personal use doesn’t make sense.”
”We’re not flexible.”
”We need to get approval from multiple layers of management.”
Over the years, thanks to a shift in work culture in Japan and our continued efforts to spread corporate yoga to the busy minds of Tokyo and Kyoto communities, Nami Yoga Studio had the privilege of bringing yoga directly into workplaces—offering on-site sessions, online classes, and wellness intensives that help teams feel better, move better, and work better. Currently, we get multiple calls a month to bring Yoga to the workplace.
So why is corporate yoga gaining momentum in Japan now? And how can your company benefit?
Let’s take a look.
👉 Explore our Corporate Yoga Programs
🇯🇵 A Shift in Work Culture in Japan
Historically, Japanese work culture has emphasized dedication, endurance, and group harmony. But in the face of global burnout trends, demographic changes, and rising mental health awareness, many companies are rethinking their approach to employee wellness.
Today’s forward-thinking HR departments are asking:
How can we support not just productivity, but wellbeing?
How do we help employees manage stress—before it leads to burnout?
What can we offer that’s inclusive, effective, and culturally appropriate?
Yoga checks all these boxes.
🧘 Benefits of Corporate Yoga for Your Team
Here’s why yoga is a smart and sustainable wellness offering:
✅ Reduces Stress & Fatigue
Guided breathing and gentle movement help employees release tension and reset their nervous systems—especially in high-pressure or screen-heavy environments.
✅ Boosts Focus & Clarity
Even short yoga sessions increase oxygen flow to the brain and improve mental clarity, leading to better decision-making and fewer mistakes.
✅ Improves Posture & Reduces Pain
Sitting for long hours can lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain. Yoga helps realign the body, increase mobility, and prevent chronic discomfort.
✅ Fosters Team Connection
Group yoga creates space for employees to connect beyond their roles—building trust, improving communication, and enhancing team cohesion.
✅ Easy to Implement
With minimal equipment and flexible formats (30–60 minutes, weekly or one-time), yoga can be offered in a meeting room, online, or even outdoors.
🧑💼 Perfect For:
Small teams or startups looking to create a positive culture from the start
Remote teams needing a screen-free, shared experience
Corporate HR or general affairs departments supporting wellness goals
Companies preparing for busy seasons with wellness “prehab” (not just recovery)
🌸 Why Nami Yoga Studio?
Based in Kyoto and Tokyo, we understand both traditional and modern work environments in Japan. Personally, I had a corporate job before teaching yoga, so I definitely know the stress, work hours, human relationships, and all the benefits yoga can offer.
All sessions led by experienced, bilingual instructors trained to work with all levels
We offer on-site, online, and hybrid options
Tailored programs: yoga + mindfulness, stress management workshops, posture-specific classes, chair yoga
No experience required—just bring your body and breath!
🧾 Learn more or get a custom proposal here:
👉 Corporate Yoga at Nami Yoga Studio
💬 What Our Clients Say
“I feel so much lighter, both my brain and my body. I can go back to work with an open min.”
– HR Manager, Marketing Company, Tokyo
“My back pain and shoulder pain feels so much better. And it was fun!”
– Sales Rep, Tech Company, Tokyo“It was an extremely meaningful time for our team! We all enjoyed the class, and we’re getting lots of positive feedback from our coworkers. We’d definitely like to invite you back!”
– Head of Events Coordinator, Tokyo
🪴 Start Small—Start Now
Whether you're organizing a company retreat, employee appreciation day, or looking to build a long-term wellness program, corporate yoga is a meaningful first step.
A healthier team isn’t just happier—it’s more creative, collaborative, and resilient.
📩 Interested in offering yoga to your team?
Contact us here to get a quote.