How to powerfully boost health and happiness with nature.
A few weeks ago I explored some beautiful inner city parklands with my family. They were so extensive and gorgeous we didn’t get time to walk through them all so we have plans for a picnic afternoon there in a few weeks time.
At the end of our little visit we were all relaxed, happy, and feeling good. And it’s no surprise.
Spending time in nature is something almost everyone likes to do, so I know I don't need to twist your arm to get outside a little more. But it does help you get motivated if you also know that it actually is really good for you.
And it’s even better to remember that it is free. You don’t have to pay heaps of money to improve your health and wellness. The answer is right there, just a few steps away.
So much so that global employers like Google give biophilia a high priority in workplace design. As well as plants, Google utilises recycled wood, rocks, natural light, views of nature and water installations to bring the outside into the office, because Google knows that nature makes people happier and perform better at work.
Just in case you need more convincing, here are 3 (research-backed) ways being in nature can improve your health and happiness:
1. Being in natural environments reduces stress, demonstrably lowering cortisol, as well as heart rate, and blood pressure.
2. Taking time outside in nature enhances social connection and community, making people more likely to notice when others need help and giving them a preference to share and be kind.
3. Greenery in the office can boost productivity by up to 15%, potentially through an attunement with our innate drive to be in nature, and also due to the cleaner air provided by plants.
Some of us in Work From Home mode can easily enjoy some time in the garden or backyard. If you can get out for a short walk, all the better. Even five minutes outside can make a difference.
But if you find yourself stuck inside on rainy days, place a few plants on your desk and bookcase. Even just a touch of nature can make a difference.
Here are some other ways to get a dose of nature during your day:
Take some meetings outside and walk with your team members.
Choose meeting places outside, or in spaces that have natural light.
Try to let natural light and sound into the office space as much as possible.
Create a vertical green garden. Encourage team members to bring in a plant for their desk, or have them provided.
If you work away from home, try to do at least some of your commute outside. You could get off the train early and walk, cycle to work, or stop in a park on the way home.
Use nature-based screen savers and have a projector with natural images rotating through.
Offer nature-based visualisation sessions with a qualified mindfulness teacher.