Finding a balance between work and life can seem impossible in this always-on world. With emails, meetings, and deadlines, it’s no surprise why people struggle to find time for themselves. So what’s to be done about that? The answer is to break away from the continuum of modern work life, tethered to electronics and fluorescent lighting, and get outside. 

Whether it’s a brisk walk or taking your lunch break outside, some outdoor fresh air can do wonders for your mental health. With a few simple priority changes, you can integrate nature into your work life and for your colleagues, and you’ll all benefit.

What is a Nature-Based Work Environment?

A nature-based work environment aims to connect indoor activities with outdoor themes and elements. It could mean adapting an indoor space to include more natural elements, like hanging plants, indoor fountains, unfinished wood layouts, and more things associated with biophilic design. It can also involve moving indoor activities outside to bring people closer together with nature. 

To that end, more employers are finding ways to bring nature into the workplace. Outdoor spaces like gardens, parks, rooftop terraces, and green communal areas are becoming more common in giving workers a natural environment. These spaces allow employees to recharge during the day, which is key for work-life balance.

For workers with young children, one interesting route to consider is shared co-work spaces with childcare. Think of these as full-service daycare facilities with quiet coworking spaces for parents who want to stay close to their children during working hours. Many of these spaces will have commercial playground equipment conveniently placed on the premises so kids can access the outdoors with supervision.

It’s a win-win for parents and children. Parents can focus on their work while knowing their little ones are nearby, enjoying a safe, playful environment. These coworking childcare models work twofold: to support productivity and provide peace of mind for parents, allowing them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Getting Creative in Nature

Nature doesn’t just reduce stress. It also boosts creativity and collaboration. Outdoor meetings, brainstorming in a park, or even a short walk can help you think more clearly. Nature refreshes the mind and enables you to think outside the box. If your region’s climate is steady enough, you might consider implementing outdoor conference spaces to give yourself and your colleagues more opportunities to venture outside. Spaces like these can serve as meeting grounds and outdoor working spaces when the weather permits it. 

More businesses realize that nature-friendly environments can create happier, healthier employees. Balancing in-office time with time outside can motivate creativity and focus by giving people a break from the continuum of the same work environment. 

Casual conversations in relaxed, green spaces often lead to meaningful discussions and new ideas. Whether a planned outdoor meeting or a spontaneous chat during a break, these moments build teamwork and drive innovation.

Bringing Nature to Urban Workspaces

Companies can still bring nature into the workplace in busy cities without big parks. Rooftop gardens, small courtyards, and green walls add a natural element to any urban workspace. These spaces give employees a quiet spot to relax and recharge, even in the city.

Companies can also partner with local parks or recreational spaces to offer employees more options for outdoor breaks or after-work activities. Organizing team outings or encouraging staff to take a simple walk outside during the day reinforces the importance of work-life balance. Even a small dose of nature can significantly positively affect mental clarity and job satisfaction.

Why Nature-Based Spaces are Good for Business

Employees who feel supported in their well-being are more likely to stay, perform well, and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Nature-based spaces help employees take meaningful breaks, get physical activity, and connect with each other. All these factors are key to a healthy work-life balance.

As more companies look for ways to create fun and productive workspaces, outdoor spaces are becoming a must-have. These areas let employees relax and recharge, but they also help refocus energy for work.

Guard Your Personal Time

If accessing nature during work is challenging, your last option is to prioritize and preserve personal time for it. This can and should even include personal time at work. 

For one, you should make a point of getting your daily dose of outside time before or after work. Setting boundaries with your work schedule is paramount if you want to make a point of getting outside every day.

Try incorporating nature into short breaks throughout the day. Even a brief walk outside during lunch or stepping into a nearby green space can refresh your mind and boost productivity. 

How Will You Include Nature In Your Day-to-Day Work Life?

In a world where work-life balance feels elusive, reconnecting with nature might be the answer. Whether through outdoor workspaces, green areas, or even playgrounds, businesses that embrace nature-based environments help employees live happier lives. Next time you need a break, get outside and see how nature enables you to reset and find balance.

Published by: Khy Talara