Boost Your Mood and Creativity by Holding Meetings in Nature
Feeling uninspired and burnt out at work? You're not alone. Traditional office tasks, like phone calls, Zooms, and meetings can feel like a drag, leaving you drained and unproductive. But what if I told you there was a simple solution to boost your mood, unlock your creativity, and improve your overall wellbeing – it’s nature. In this post, we'll explore the science behind the positive impact of connecting with the natural world on both your work and personal life. We'll discuss how nature can inspire, how it affects your mood and creativity, and of course, show you practical ways to incorporate it into your work life.
Nature as a Source of Inspiration
Research has shown that nature has a profound impact on our mood and creativity. In fact, spending time in nature can increase our feelings of happiness, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost our creativity. One study found that just a 20-minute walk in nature can noticeably increase positive emotions and decrease feelings of stress. This is because the sights, sounds, and smells of nature activate our parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous system, which helps us to relax and feel more at ease.
Furthermore, studies have shown that being exposed to natural stimuli can improve our ability to think creatively and generate new ideas. This is because nature engages our senses and stimulates our imagination in a way that the sterile environment of most offices cannot. The colors, patterns, and textures found in nature can inspire new ways of thinking and problem-solving.
So, if you're feeling stuck or uninspired at work, taking your calls or holding meetings outside could be just the thing you need to get your creative juices flowing. By incorporating natural elements into your work environment, you can create a more stimulating and inspiring space that encourages innovation and productivity.
The Science Behind Nature's Impact on Mood and Creativity
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on both our mood and our ability to think creatively. In fact, a 2012 study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that even just a quick walk in nature can boost cognitive function and improve our ability to focus.
But why does nature have this effect on us? One theory is that exposure to natural stimuli, such as trees and birds, can help reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. Another theory suggests that nature can stimulate our imaginations and inspire us to think more creatively.
Whatever the reason, there's no denying that nature has a powerful impact on our minds and bodies. By incorporating natural elements into your meetings, you can tap into this power and create a more productive and inspiring work environment.
Let’s explore some practical ways to bring nature into your work and start reaping the benefits.
How to Incorporate Nature into Your Work Life
One simple way to incorporate nature into your work is to hold meetings or take calls outside. Instead of sitting in a stuffy conference room, move your meeting to a nearby park or outdoor area. Not only will you get the benefits of fresh air and sunshine, but the change of scenery can also spark creativity and fresh ideas.
If holding your meeting outside isn't an option, try bringing nature indoors. This can be as simple as adding some potted plants or bouquet of fresh flowers to the room, or opening the windows to let in natural light and fresh air. Even small touches of nature can have a big impact on our mood and productivity.
Another way to incorporate nature into your work life is to use natural materials in your decor (I use this strategy in my office). Consider using wooden tables and desks, stone accents, or natural fiber rugs to create a more earthy and calming environment. If there’s a view of greenery or blue sky, open the shades. You can even add a water fountain or sound machine to bring the calming sound of flowing water into the work space.
Benefits of Holding Meetings in Nature
By holding meetings in nature, you can reap numerous benefits that go beyond simply enjoying a change of scenery. Research has shown that being in nature can have a positive impact on both our physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the benefits of holding meetings in nature:
1. Boosts Creativity: Being in nature can have a positive impact on our creative thinking. Studies have shown that just an hour of exposure to nature can increase our creativity by 50%. In addition, being surrounded by natural beauty can help to reduce mental fatigue and promote clearer thinking - both of which are essential for creative problem-solving.
2. Reduces Stress: Nature has a calming effect on our minds and bodies, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Being in a natural environment can lower our cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and increase our feelings of well-being and relaxation.
3. Improves Mood: Spending time in nature has been shown to boost mood and increase feelings of happiness. Being in a natural setting can stimulate the release of endorphins - the "feel-good" chemicals in our brain - which can improve our mood and overall sense of well-being.
4. Increases Productivity: Holding meetings in nature can also have a positive impact on our productivity. Research has shown that being in a natural environment can increase our attention span and improve our ability to focus. This can lead to more productive meetings and better outcomes.
Incorporating nature into your meetings is a simple but effective way to create a more relaxed and inspiring work environment. By taking advantage of the many benefits of nature, you can boost your mood, creativity, and productivity - and let’s be honest - make your meetings more enjoyable in the process.
In a world where we are constantly overwhelmed by technology and the fast-paced environment of the workplace, it's easy to lose touch with our creativity and sense of inspiration. But by taking our calls and meetings outside and immersing ourselves in nature, we can tap into a whole new level of productivity and wellbeing. Whether it's a team-building retreat in the woods or a brainstorm session in a local park, connecting with nature can be a game-changer for your business and your team.
Let's all step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and let the magic of nature do its thing!