Employee wellbeing is an integral factor in the productivity, creativity and ultimately the success of an organisation. Nature Based Interventions (NBIs) (Richardson et al., 2020) are programs that use nature either alone or as the main intervention to promote wellbeing. NBIs can be structured into a retreat-style experience that companies can encourage or mandate their employees to participate in. The experiences of employees during these retreats have been shown to “promote improved physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing” (Shanahan et al., 2019). Companies that invest in employee wellbeing via retreats can significantly enhance performance and reduce business costs as a result of healthier, happier, and more creative employees (Hartig et al., 2014). Experiencing nature yields greater benefits with increased exposure, emphasising the importance of immersive interactions for maximising its positive effects on individuals (Cohen-Cline et al., 2015).

Taking a break in nature improves cognitive function and enhances creativity

One of the most integral factors to success in the modern corporate environment is the facilitation of creativity. A simple catalyst for the creative process is spending time outdoors, with some evidence suggesting that time in nature increases creativity by as much as 50% (Pyrah, 2023). Additionally, evidence shows that routine monotony, high levels of stress, and an inability to disconnect from technology, combined with a static and uninspiring working environment, leave little room for creative thinking (Atchley et al., 2012). Creativity allows employees to work smarter instead of harder, which in turn increases productivity and fights stagnation in the workplace (Boyles, 2022). Even if a structured retreat is not possible in the short term, team leaders should take advantage of local parks and natural spaces for brainstorming, strategy meetings and ideation sessions (Atchley et al., 2012). When individuals employ creative thinking to tackle challenges from diverse viewpoints, innovation thrives and inventive solutions are uncovered.

Improved health and wellbeing of employees

Part of a company’s Corporate Social Responsibility is ensuring that employees are healthy and happy. Whether preventative or actively healing, the impact of retreats on the health of employees is well-documented and overwhelmingly positive. Practices such as forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) (Miyazaki, 2018) are gaining huge popularity and are representative of a larger desire for humanity to re-engage with the natural world. Forest bathing is a way to immerse yourself in nature, bathing the mind and body in greenery. Originating in Japan in the 1980s, this form of therapy is recognised as a pivotal part of the country’s preventative healthcare system. Extensive studies by Yoshifumi Miyazaki (Deputy Director of Chiba University’s Centre for Environment, Health and Field Science) document the positive effects on blood pressure, cortisol levels, and pulse rate related to forest bathing (Miyazaki, 2018). Additionally, immune system strength can be improved via an increasing number of cells that fight off infections and cancer (Miyazaki et al., 2014). It is evident that incorporating access to green spaces should be a fundamental aspect of workplace stress management interventions. This approach not only aims to decrease sick leave and prevent burnout among employees, but also seeks to enhance happiness and overall wellbeing.

Evidence found in First Nations communities

On a related note, research has shown that First Nations people’s wellbeing can be improved by a close connection to Country. Although Indigenous Australians’ relationship with their respective Country can be complex and not all Aboriginal people have the same experience, Ganesharajah (2009) outlines the significant effect on improved life outcomes (especially in self-reported physical and mental wellbeing) that has been documented when individuals are more directly connected and involved with Country.

Concluding remarks

Embracing nature-based interventions in the workplace leads to decreased staff turnover, fewer employee sick days, and increased overall productivity. Given the central role that land and water play in Aboriginal spiritual identity, it is unsurprising that connection to Country has been proven to have a significant effect on the wellbeing of Indigenous staff in particular. Whether through structured retreats or local outdoor breaks, the positive impacts on employees are numerous and profound.

References:

Atchley, R. A., Strayer, D. L., & Atchley, P. (2012). Creativity in the Wild: Improving Creative Reasoning through Immersion in Natural Settings. PLoS ONE, 7(12), e51474.

Boyles, M. (2022, January 25). The Importance of Creativity in Business. Harvard Business School Online. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/importance-of-creativity-in-business

Cohen-Cline H, Turkheimer E, Duncan GE. Access to green space, physical activity and mental health: A twin study. J Epidemiol Community Health. 2015;69:523–529.

Hartig T, Mitchell R, de Vries S, Frumkin H. Nature and Health. Annu Rev Public Health. 2014;35:207–228.

Isen A, et al. Positive affect facilitates creative problem solving. J Pers Soc Psychol. 1987;52:1122–31.

Miyazaki, Y. (2018, April 20). Miyazaki Yoshifumi Explores the Healing Power of the Forest. Nippon.com

Miyazaki, Y., Ikei, H., & Song, C. (2014). Forest medicine research in Japan. Nihon Eiseigaku Zasshi, 69(2), 122-135.

Pyrah, S. (2023). The nature cure: how time outdoors transforms our memory, imagination and logic. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/nov/27/the-nature-cure-how-time-outdoors-transforms-our-memory-imagination-and-logic

Richardson M, Richardson E, Hallam J, Ferguson FJ. Opening doors to nature: bringing calm and raising aspirations of vulnerable young people through nature-based intervention. Humanist Psychol. 2020;48:284–297. doi: 10.1037/hum0000148.

Shanahan DF, Astell-Burt T, Barber EA, Brymer E, Cox DTC, Dean J, Depledge M, Fuller RA, Hartig T, Irvine KN, et al. Nature-Based Interventions for Improving Health and Wellbeing: The Purpose, the People and the Outcomes. Sports. 2019; 7(6):141. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports7060141.

The Learn Biomimicry Team. 50 of the World’s Best Biomimicry Examples (so far). Nov 25, 2022. Learn Biomimicry. https://www.learnbiomimicry.com/blog/best-biomimicry-examples.

Ganesharajah, C. (2009) Indigenous Health and Wellbeing: The Importance of Country. rep. Canberrra, 2601: Native Title Research Unit, Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.