With the Easter holidays fast approaching, children and their families in Cornwall are being encouraged to embrace the great outdoors through Wild Wellbeing workshops. Organised by Natural England in collaboration with the NHS Cornwall Mental Health Support Team, Cornwall Wildlife Trust, and the National Trust, these workshops are designed to promote mental wellbeing by fostering a deeper connection with nature.
This initiative aligns with growing research showing that time spent in nature can have profound effects on mental and physical health. But while these workshops are targeted at children and their families, the benefits of nature are just as relevant for business owners.
The Business Benefits of Being in Nature
Running a business can be stressful, with long hours, financial pressures, and the ever-present demands of managing employees and customers. However, incorporating nature into your daily routine and business practices can have a transformative impact on your wellbeing and productivity. Here’s how:
- Boosts Mental Clarity and Creativity: There are studies that indicate that spending time in nature can help improve cognitive function and creativity. A walk in a green space could help clear your mind, allowing you to approach business challenges with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
- Reduces Stress and Enhances Wellbeing: Studies have also found that being in nature seems to help lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Whether it’s a short break outside or a weekend retreat in the countryside, finding a way to give yourself regular exposure to green spaces could help you manage stress more effectively.
- Encourages Mindful Leadership: The NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing initiative—Connect, Take Notice, Be Active, Keep Learning, and Give—aligns well with principles of effective business leadership. Taking notice of your surroundings, practicing gratitude, and fostering meaningful connections with colleagues can lead to a more positive and productive work environment.
How Business Owners Can Incorporate Nature Into Their Routine
If you’re looking to integrate the benefits of nature into your business lifestyle, here are a few practical ideas:
- Outdoor Meetings: Instead of holding every meeting in a boardroom, take a walking meeting in a nearby park. Fresh air and movement can lead to more engaged discussions and creative problem-solving.
- Workplace Green Spaces: If possible, create a green space within your office environment—whether it’s indoor plants, a small garden, or an outdoor seating area.
- Encourage Outdoor Breaks: Encourage employees (and yourself) to step outside for breaks, even if it’s just for a few minutes to reset and recharge.
- Team Retreats in Nature: Consider organising team-building activities in natural settings, such as hiking trips, wellness retreats, or conservation volunteering days.
- Flexible Working for Outdoor Time: If you have the flexibility, schedule work-from-home days where you can work in a garden or take advantage of natural surroundings.
A Natural Path to Business Success
Embracing nature isn’t just about personal wellbeing—it’s also about fostering a positive and sustainable business culture. By making small but intentional changes, you can enhance your own productivity and create a healthier, happier workplace for your team.
So, as Cornwall’s children head outdoors to connect with nature in the holidays, why not take inspiration and explore how the natural world can support your business journey?
