Green Spaces at work: Cultivating Wellness in the Workplace

The presence of green spaces isn’t just visually appealing; it can significantly enhance mood and emotional well-being. A UK study revealed that individuals spending more time in green surroundings reported lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Not every workplace is fortunate enough to be surrounded by nature, but the innovative approach of biophilic design allows us to bring the restorative elements of the outdoors inside.

Let’s explore the benefits of incorporating greenery at work and discuss practical ways to create a calming natural environment indoors.

The Impact of Green Spaces on Wellbeing at work:

• Stress Reduction:
  Green spaces, whether outdoors or indoors, have a significant ability to reduce stress levels. The calming influence of nature provides employees with a sanctuary for relaxation in the demands of a busy workday.
• Improved Mental Health:
  The presence of nature has been linked to improved mental health. Whether through outdoor views or indoor plants, nature contributes to lower levels of anxiety and depression, promoting overall mental well-being.
• Increased Job Satisfaction:
  Access to green spaces, either within or around the workplace, often results in higher levels of job satisfaction. The presence of nature contributes to a positive work environment.
• Physical Health Benefits:
  The inclusion of Indoor plants contributes to improved air quality. Cleaner air supports respiratory health, reducing the risk of illness and promoting the overall physical well-being of employees.
• Boosted Immune System:
  Spending time in or surrounded by green spaces has been associated with a strengthened immune system. Exposure to nature and greenery can positively impact the production of immune-boosting cells, helping employees resist illnesses more effectively.
• Social Connection:
  Green spaces, whether communal outdoor areas or indoor plant installations, create opportunities for social interaction. Employees can connect, grab a bite to eat, collaborate, and build a sense of community in a relaxed setting.
  

Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors

Access to green spaces is a fundamental aspect of employee wellbeing, contributing not only to stress reduction and mental health but also to a boosted immune system. While not every workplace enjoys the luxury of natural surroundings, the principles of biophilic design provide a practical way to bring the benefits of nature indoors. By embracing elements like indoor plants, natural light, and calming textures, organizations can create work environments that prioritize employee health, foster productivity, and enhance the overall quality of the work experience.

• Indoor Plants:
  Incorporate indoor plants into the office environment to improve air quality and boost the immune system.
• Natural Light:
  Arrange workspaces near windows to maximize access to natural light, promoting mood and immune system function.
• Green Walls and Screens:
  Install green walls or screens with plant life to create an attractive and dynamic feature that contributes to overall wellbeing.
• Natural Materials:
  Choose natural materials for office furniture and decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Water Features:
  If feasible, include water features like fountains or indoor ponds. The sound of flowing water can have a calming effect and contribute to overall well being.
• Biophilic Artwork:
  Incorporate artwork inspired by nature. Consider murals, paintings, or sculptures that depict natural scenes. Art can be a powerful way to bring the outdoors inside and stimulate positive emotions

Working in a fast-paced office environment with no natural light or nature views available? no park or gardens nearby and no budget available for a complete biophilic interior fit-out of the space? A Harvard study showed that biophilic elements in an online environment experienced by participants also increased physiological stress recovery by lowering blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety levels in respondents.

Imagine a virtual reality pod for stressed out staff to relax in when they need a break!

Overall, research on the impact of Virtual nature on well-being is still limited, but we are starting to see some companies that offer VR experiences for wellness, stress reduction, and relaxation. Their virtual environments often include nature scenes and are designed to provide a break from the typical office environment.

Let’s recognize the importance of green spaces, whether outside our windows, inside our offices or maybe even through virtual reality in creating a healthier and more resilient work environment for everyone.

Sources:
Effects of biophilic interventions in office on stress reaction and cognitive function: A randomized crossover study in virtual reality – Yin – 2019 – Indoor Air – Wiley Online Library

Author: Emma Carpenter

Manager of Operations and Workplace Wellness Strategist, BSC, Health Promotion