Workplace Wellbeing: Stepping away on sabbatical to come back stronger

Taking a work sabbatical is common among academics and the practice is now being introduced by some companies to promote staff wellbeing. The time off can help employees recharge and refocus but unless it’s a paid benefit, it remains a dream scenario for most.

The term sabbatical comes from the Old Testament and refers to the practice of allowing fields to lie fallow every seven years.

SINÉAD KENNEDY knows all about sabbaticals. The 51-year-old wellness coach and author from Rathfarnham in Dublin takes herself off on one every year.

The term sabbatical comes from the Old Testament and refers to the practice of allowing fields to lie fallow every seven years. But Kennedy doesn’t believe in waiting that long.