Richard Louv, author of the “Nature Principal,” argues that we’re suffering as a society from what he calls “nature-deficit disorder,” which can hurt us mentally, physically, and even spiritually.
It’s been proven over and over again that exposure to natural environments is good for us. It reduces the level of cortisol (stress hormone), heart rate goes down, and blood pressure is lowered, too.
Mood, of course, tends to go up.
Makes sense, right? Our species didn’t always have the benefit of asphalt shingles over our heads and refrigerators full of food. We had to survive in nature for centuries. We respond to its rhythms.
Greener office (and home) environments are proven to make us more productive. Exposure to natural environments also cultivates the #1 most-desirable trait in employees and colleagues: creativity. Being in and around nature helps us think more expansively and make better decisions.
You don’t have to recreate a rain forest in your office to gain from more green. Here are some easy ways to do it:
- Encourage team “walking meetings” outside.
- Sit outside or in naturally lit areas on breaks or during lunch.
- Create a green wall of potted plants. Also, place them strategically throughout the office.
- Open blinds and light rooms with natural sunlight as much as possible.
- Display nature photography or artwork.
- Play nature videos or nature slides on your television or display screens.
Nature images and sounds make us happier and less stressed. Get outside. Or bring the outside in as much as you can.
Remember the words of the great nature philosopher Henry David Thoreau: “The world is but a canvas to our imagination.”
Have a great week.
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