Basking in the Advantages
Numerous studies have highlighted the positive impacts of working or spending time outdoors. A comprehensive review in 2018 examined 143 studies where participants were exposed to green spaces to assess health outcomes. The findings indicated that exposure to green spaces was linked to a variety of health advantages, including significant reductions in diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, salivary cortisol levels, and the occurrence of type 2 diabetes and stroke. There were also notable associations with decreased overall and cardiovascular mortality rates, alongside an increase in self-reported good health.
A study conducted in Sweden in 2021 revealed that working in an outdoor office fosters well-being, recovery, autonomy, improved cognitive function, and enhanced communication, which the researchers believe could contribute to increased workplace productivity.
Are you considering relocating your office to a more natural setting?
Establishing Your Outdoor Workspace
Creating your workstation outdoors requires careful planning. Factors such as distractions, noise, and risks—like sitting in the sun for too long—can turn a pleasant working environment into a frustrating one. Consider how you’ll protect yourself from the sun, what type of furniture you’ll need, how to maintain ergonomic support, manage noise, and optimize lighting for your workspace.
Here are some suggestions from Nina Doiron, the president and lead designer of iSO Design in Toronto, for crafting your ideal outdoor workspace.
Connect to Power
Ensure your Wi-Fi is reliable, and that electrical outlets are within reach—or opt to disconnect from your computer to fully immerse yourself in the outdoor experience.
Stay Warm
If necessary, consider investing in a propane heater, lamp, or gas-powered outdoor fireplace, which can also add to the ambience. A small space heater at your feet can warm your entire body. Doiron recommends just having a blanket on hand, keeping one in a wicker basket nearby for chilly moments. A pair of wool socks will also help keep you comfortable.
Bring Indoor Comforts Outdoors
Selecting the right seat is crucial, especially for a full workday. You might want to bring your office chair outside for comfort, but if you prefer a regular chair, consider getting a lumbar or back support cushion.
Create a Patio Cover
Investing in or building a patio cover can enhance your outdoor workspace. A canvas curtain can provide shelter, retain heat, or offer privacy, making it ideal for post-work gatherings, according to Doiron. Add style to the area with an indoor/outdoor rug, which will also feel great underfoot.
Add a Fun Touch
Enhance your outdoor workspace with lights and music. Utilize portable speakers or headphones. To stay energized, integrate some quick stretching or exercises throughout the day, or toss a ball around with your pet.
Maintain Organization
Use a bin or basket with multiple compartments to streamline the process of moving your office outdoors. Doiron suggests organizing supplies like notebooks, pens, scissors, and a stapler in the bin for easy access and efficient packing back inside at the end of the day.
Top 10 Ways to Bring the Outdoors In
- Create a wall dedicated to plants.
- For low-maintenance options, bring in several small cacti.
- Add pots with edible plants such as tomatoes, kale, or beets to your office.
- Construct a rock garden or terrarium.
- Light candles with outdoor scents like cedar, rose, jasmine, or sea salt.
- Use a light-therapy box to simulate natural light.
- Install a small water feature.
- If your office lacks windows, hang outdoor-themed artwork within your sight.
- Press leaves in a book and display them in clear frames.
- Choose a color scheme with earthy tones, including greens, browns, and blues reminiscent of the sea and sky.
5 Best Herbs to Keep on Your Desk
| Herb | Workday Benefits |
|---|---|
| Peppermint | Linked to mood enhancement and improved cognitive tasks while reducing mental fatigue. |
| Lavender | Known to reduce stress and depression and contains inflammation-fighting compounds. |
| Lemon Balm | A rich source of antioxidants, potentially inhibiting some viruses and bacteria. |
| Rosemary | Commonly associated with support for memory and relief from indigestion and fatigue. |
| Sage | Recent studies suggest cognitive-enhancing and protective effects of sage plants. |
In Good Company
Employers are beginning to understand the advantages of outdoor work environments. Companies like Amazon, Apple, and Facebook have experimented with outdoor workstations, incorporating elements like botanical gardens, tree houses, and green roofs into their setups.
