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At Empire East, wellness takes the spotlight through F.L.O.W. (Fitness. Lifestyle. Optimism. Wellness.) — a daily office initiative launched to encourage employees to find the time to move, stretch, and recharge, even as they strive to accomplish their daily tasks. How does the company keep all 600+ employees engaged during this activity? Daily announcements, assignments of representatives for each department, and an engaging Empire East jingle that plays through the intercom at specific timeslots in the morning and the afternoon, that serves as a cue for people to start flowing. FLOW offers various exercise routines, ranging from facial yoga to desk stretches, and even walking around the facility. For a minimum of 15 minutes a day and an estimated 900 steps, employees log their accomplishments on an official ‘Passport’ material, which they can also log on digital apps like Strava, and share it with their colleagues, encouraging group discussions and motivations to take in more steps and benefit from the added exercise. More than just exercise, FLOW builds connection, uplifts moods, and inspires a stronger, healthier community — one small movement at a time. Empire East believes that walking daily doesn’t just burn calories, but also refreshes the mind, boosts energy, eases joint tension, and improves overall well-being. (Nitschke, 2025).
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Whether at home, at work, or on the go, there is always an opportunity to keep moving. Even the smallest movements can make each day feel lighter. At Empire East, the well-being of every individual, both homebuyers and employees is highly valued. This commitment to wellness is reflected in the FLOW Program, an everyday fitness initiative that encourages simple yet meaningful movement. The program features easy desk exercises that vary each day and guided walks around Empire East’s new office at The Paddington Place, also known as “The Pad.”
The IDOL in motion features four designated stops placed in key areas around the office, encouraging employees to explore the space while staying active. After completing each stop, employees receive a stamp on their FLOW Passport—a simple yet meaningful reminder of taking time to move, connect, and have fun. Beyond being an office activity, FLOW reflects Empire East’s commitment to nurturing a culture of wellness within its community. Just as each 15-minute walk or quick desk stretch promotes balance at work, it also echoes the kind of lifestyle Empire East envisions for its homeowners: one that values movement, mindfulness, and everyday well-being. Jenny R., from the Legal department shared, “It’s helpful for all employees of Empire East because the program really boosts our mood and uplifts us.” Her words reflect how FLOW has become more than just a wellness routine—it’s a way to lift spirits and create a more positive environment. Tala from the Treasury Department also added, “It’s important that we exercise because we spend most of our time sitting. We need to be able to insert movement so we can also take care of our mental and physical health.” This sentiment goes beyond those with desk jobs—it’s a reminder that even for people with busy or less active lifestyles, small moments of movement can make a big difference in energy and focus. Just as FLOW encourages everyone to find balance in their day, Empire East continues to design communities that inspire the same harmony for homeowners—spaces that nurture both body and mind.
Beyond promoting physical activity, the FLOW program also fosters stronger connections and a more dynamic workplace culture. As Lyka from the MIS department mentioned, “It’s exciting and fun because we get to interact with other departments.” This sense of interaction and community reflects how FLOW goes beyond being an office routine. It also embodies the company’s vision of creating spaces where people can move, connect, and thrive together. The same spirit extends beyond the walls of the office to the communities Empire East builds, where wellness and connection are at the heart of everyday living. This reflects the company’s commitment to Shaping Tomorrow’s Communities, where a balanced lifestyle and a sense of belonging come together to create environments that truly inspire.
Key Takeaway:
FLOW shows that wellness doesn’t require grand gestures and sometimes, all it takes is a few minutes to stretch, breathe, and move. By promoting fitness, optimism, and connection, programs like this highlight the power of small, consistent actions in creating a more vibrant and motivated community. After all, when people take the time to care for their well-being, productivity and positivity naturally follow.