Companies are starting to fully realize the benefits of greenery in the workplace. It boosts mood, increases attention span, and lowers every day stress. Overall, it is great for productivity and business.
A study shows that one in five adult Australians are at risk of developing mental illness, and corporate level stress has caused over three million adults to deal with stress, anxiety, and/or depression.
Offices have begun implementing wellness programs, such as offering discounted gym memberships and massages, to boost mental health. It is clear that there are numerous benefits to adding a touch of horticulture to an office space.
It restores attention for those who work long hours staring at a computer screen. Spending an hour walking in nature can boost attention by 15% and memory by 20%, so it is vital to take time to go walk outside or to simply move to a space where there is visible greenery.
Going green naturally reduces stress and cortisol levels. Just twenty minutes spent in nature can also lower blood pressure, heart rate, negative self-talk, as well as release serotonin and endorphins.
When surrounded by greenery, we typically become more mindful and appreciative of our environment. It creates a flood of positive emotions and keeps us inspired, thus boosting confidence.
Nature also makes us safe by offering the feeling of refuge. It allows us to contemplate deeply and calm the mind in order to solve problems more efficiently.
Greenery allows us to switch off. We live in a digital age where we must be available practically 24/7, so taking the time to step into nature helps us reconnect with values and increase positive mental health.
A COGfx study showed that US ‘green-certified’ offices have a 26% increase in cognition, as well as a 33% decrease in absenteeism.
Overall, going green is healthy for both employees and companies.
