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The year 2020 has been a difficult one. Not only has businesses and commercial trades suffered losses, but employees have also had some health issues.
According to a report, WFH triggered several alarming symptoms in employees. More so, anxiety and depression being at the top of the list. Experts opine that lack of interaction with others and the environment around has to do a great deal with these effects.
Perhaps, adding some natural touch to the workspace might help.
Natural Lighting Helps With Energy
Feeling lethargic is pretty common when working indoors all day long. Particularly, when there are no natural light sources to bring in the sunlight.
Research suggests that people who work under artificial lights are more likely to feel fatigued by the end of the day. On the other hand, people who work in natural lights are likely to be more energetic, even late till night.
Window designs and awnings should be apt to allow as much natural light as possible. Besides, placing light and pastel shade curtains can help keep eyes relaxed.
Visual Effects Help Improve Mental Peace
According to a study conducted by Harvard Medical School, “mood disorders can be lifted by spending time in the outdoors.”
Under stress, the prefrontal cortex in our brains is more active. And notably, the part is known to be associated with depressing moods and sadness. And it needs no mention that cranky and depressed moods can easily hamper productivity at work.
Well, walking out in nature might not be possible at all times, especially, with the pandemic still going on. Perhaps, bringing in some natural fine art prints can help. If not, nature itself, the visual effects can still prove helpful in maintaining mental health. And thus, improving productivity at work.
Acoustic Effects Improve Cognition
Apart from natural lighting and visuals, acoustics also play an important role in work environments. Reports suggest that playing natural sounds like flowing water in the office can help improve cognitive abilities.
The usual office sounds such as printer noise, keyboard tapping, etc. can be distracting at times. Especially, when the task at hand needs high-order thinking and brainstorming. However, masking these usual office sounds with natural acoustics can help improve concentration.
Down the line, improved concentration also helps boost cognitive abilities. Perhaps, playing some natural sounds such as that of flowing water and chirping birds can help with employees’ overall performance.
The Ways To Introduce Nature To Your Workspace
Most of the companies worldwide are still preferring remote working. While some may take their work on the go, with remote working in practice, others may not be able to do so at all times. And, of course, there can be endless reasons for it, from family constraints to physical inabilities.
Nonetheless, there are still ways to be close to nature.
Planting shrubs indoors
One of the best ways to bring a natural touch to the home office is by including indoor shrubs. Trailing vines, jade plants, asparagus fern, are some of the easiest to maintain indoors. And they also add natural scents and fragrances to the work environment.
Installing indoor fountains
Another cool way to introduce nature into a workspace is by installing indoor fountains. They need not be too large but should be enough to mask the office noises. Or installing an aquarium might also do the trick. Not only will an aquarium generate natural sounds but also offer a natural sight too within the office space.
Aquariums
Nothing challenges the beauty of a red sea aquarium in your office. It looks breathtaking and allows your staff to witness fish, coral reefs, and aquatic plants indoors. In fact, studies claim that observing fish swimming through the water tank lowers down blood pressure, workplace anxiety and lifts the mood up. There is plenty of variety out there for you to shop a saltwater aquarium for your office. Install it near the entrance and create an inviting vibe for your employees and visitors alike.
Using natural scents and aromas
Last but not least is to use natural fragrances. Apart from the ones that indoor plants can create, there are several other options available in the market too. For example, lavender, sandalwood, vanilla, chocolate, musk, etc. are some of the common natural fragrances. And notably, they are also effective with stress reduction.
The Takeaway
Being close to nature is not only helpful in professional life but is also important for overall well-being. It helps develop a sense of belongingness, apart from cheering up the mood. And it needs no mention that when employees are happier, they are more likely to perform their best.
Moreover, instilling natural elements into the workspace also helps avoid several physical health conditions, including breathing ailments. For example, plants help purify indoor air, and water helps maintain humidity.
On this note, if you’re thinking of including natural tinges in your office/workspace, then we cannot be happier any more than you. Perhaps, you’re not only ensuring your personal wellbeing but also contributing to the environment by including plants and water elements in your office.
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