In the hustle and bustle of modern work life in particular for those working inside all day, those clocking in long hours may often find themselves chained to their desks or feeling a little claustrophobic in their homes or work buildings. There is working on terminals all day, the glow of your screen is often a perpetual companion. The need for brief escapes becomes paramount, not just for a change of scenery, but for the benefits such respites can have on our overall well-being. Green spaces serve as the perfect antidote to the confines of virtual and work walls, offering a refuge that is both soothing and revitalizing.
Benefits of Green Spaces:
Green spaces are more than just aesthetic enhancements to urban landscapes; they are havens where employees can recharge. The importance of these areas lies in their ability to:
Improve Mood: Natural settings have been scientifically proven to elevate mood, reduce stress, and mitigate the risk of burnout.
Boost Health: Regular exposure to greenery can enhance physical health by encouraging movement and providing cleaner air.
Provide Relaxation: The serene ambiance of a park or garden offers an ideal environment for unwinding and reducing mental fatigue.
Enhance Well-Being: Being surrounded by nature, even briefly, can improve one’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction.
Given these compelling benefits, it’s clear that making time for green space breaks is essential. Here is a simple checklist to help incorporate these moments into your daily routine, ensuring that you reap the full rewards of nature’s bounty.
Green Space Break Checklist for Long-Hour Workers:
Morning Rejuvenation:
Start your day by stepping outside and taking a deep breath of fresh air.
If possible, arrange morning activities to include a view of greenery, even from a window.
Sunlight Boost:
Acknowledge the invigorating power of the morning sun to bolster your vitamin D levels and energize your day.
Timed Reminders:
Set a timer or schedule alerts to prompt you to take regular breaks away from your screen.
Use smartphone apps or calendar notifications as a modern-day cuckoo, calling you into nature.
Mindful Movement:
During breaks, engage in light stretching or walking to promote blood flow.
Find natural spaces near your workplace for a quick stroll, like a nearby park or walking path.
Lunch Al Fresco:
Whenever possible, eat lunch outside to combine nourishment with the therapeutic effects of nature.
Breathing Exercises:
Practice deep, controlled breathing exercises while in green spaces to maximize relaxation.
Focus on Flora:
Take a moment to observe the plants, trees, and wildlife around you, which can ground you in the present moment.
Bring Nature Indoors:
Keep plants in your work area to maintain a connection with nature even indoors. I’ve created a little greenery just behind me where I work which can be seen on my work screen by my colleagues.
Use natural light and views of the outdoors to keep your workspace bright and mood-elevating.
The Rule of 20-20-20:
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds—ideally, something green.
Reflect and Appreciate:
Use your time in green spaces to reflect on your day, set goals, or simply practice gratitude.
After Work Wind Down:
Conclude your day with time in a green space, dissociating from work stress and transitioning peacefully to personal time.
By integrating these practices into your daily work routine, green spaces can become more than just places—they’ll be your partners in maintaining a balanced, healthy work life. They offer the sanctuary we need for not only surviving but thriving in today’s demanding work environment. Remember, sometimes the best way to move forward is to step outside.
I’d love to hear what your suggestions are for getting out and taking a break from your work space.
Female Leaders At 50 