Contributor:
Nicky Suwandi
It’s good that the APCOM Management Team believes in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Over the past year, the team have begun to invest more time and effort into this aspect in order to improve the organization. One component of achieving this vision is the facilitation and support of monthly mental health activities for the staff – something that most staff look forward to each month. (Possibly second only to payroll, LOL!)
The purpose of these monthly activities is quite simple: relieve stress, do something exciting, get to know each other better outside the usual work environment, and, in a nutshell, step away from our desks and have some fun. This time, it was all about dancing! On 9 August 2024, we gathered at Royce Studio – conveniently located within walking distance from the office – for a two-hour dance class that was split into two sessions, each led by a different instructor.
“The APCOM Event Working Group suggested this dance class because we think that shaking off our bodies will really help reduce stress, as everyone will dance, laugh, and dance again to fun music,” said Suriya “Bobo” Phongphunngam, who led the organization of this activity, including selecting an accessible venue and identifying prospective instructors. He further commented, “We knew it’s going to be enjoyable, and also a healthy workout for the mental well-being of our APCOM team.”
The first half was an upbeat aerobic or Zumba-style class, where we danced to a mix of popular international hits and energetic Thai songs. The instructor, upon learning that I am Indonesian, added a special touch by playing Siti Badriah’s “Lagi Syantik.” It’s a huge hit from 2018 in my country and, surprisingly, one of the few Indonesian songs that has made waves in Thailand. As an expat, I always appreciate such small gestures and personalized touches. It’s simply sweet.
I could see the whole team was vibing with this session. It was light, fun, and it’s no surprise that some colleagues and I copied the instructor in extra flamboyant style. We got a little sweaty, and some of the moves had us gasping for breath, but in a good way. There’s something so freeing about dancing without a care in the world. We weren’t worried about looking good – we were just there to let loose and have fun. By the end of that session, it felt like we had danced some, if not all, our stress away.
Among colleagues who participated that day, I noticed Seksom Aunjittham (whom I casually call Phi Sek), really enjoying all the dance routines. He commented, “Dancing to upbeat music brings laughter, joy, and a sense of closeness among employees, creating a vibrant and supจportive atmosphere.” As one of the newest staff members of APCOM, he added, “After a long day at work, these sessions provide a refreshing break, infusing energy, positivity and happiness. This activity improves team collaboration and overall well-being. I like it.”
Then came the second half of the class, which was, let’s just say, a bit more challenging. This part was a step-by-step dance routine set to “Rockstar,” a hit track by Lisa, the Thai rapper-singer from the world-famous Blackpink. Now I have a greater appreciation for Blackpink, or performers like Beyoncé, Shakira, and Bruno Mars – dancing and singing at the same time is no joke! We were just trying to keep up with half a song’s choreography (without singing), and even that was a struggle.
After the class, we all gathered for coffee and some snacks before heading home. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with music, laughter, and a lot of movement. This kind of activity, where we can all come together, let loose, and just enjoy each other’s company outside the office, even if only once a month, is a reminder of the phrase “work hard, play hard.” It probably makes all the difference in creating a good, balanced work environment. Cheers to more twerking, more laughs, and more happy moments to be cherished.
