Brandon C White- Build a Business Success Formula

Take a Nature Break to Skyrocket Your Productivity. Here’s what the research says even a short walk in nature will do for you.

Apr 16, 2024 | How to Be More Productive, Productivity

Take a Nature Break to Skyrocket Your Productivity. Here’s what the research says even a short walk in nature will do for you

Feeling glued to your screen, brain fried? Your Productivity plummets, you try to push through the fatigue, but it feels like you’re running on fumes. You reach for your coffee or energy drink. We’ve all been there.

But what if the answer isn’t another cup of coffee or chugging that energy drink? What if the key to getting back on track lies just outside your window?

Today, we’re exploring the science of nature breaks and how a quick escape into the green will revitalize your brain and skyrocket your productivity. We’ll look at a meta analysis research study that looks at hundreds of subjects, summarize the findings, give you the surprisingly short time you need in nature to get the effects and give you some tips on how to leverage the findings to boost your energy, focus and productivity.

Nature’s Magic Touch:

A recent study published in “Frontiers in Psychology” titled Nature Breaks and Cognitive Function: A Meta-Analysis”  tested the impact of nature on cognitive function. The researchers analyzed data from a total of 29 individual studies which looked at hundreds of subjects. These studies encompassed various methodologies, including randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and correlational studies, all investigating the effects of nature exposure on cognitive function. The studies looked at various nature activities, including short walks, hikes, and longer immersions in natural environments.

The main finding was that even brief exposures to nature (around 15 minutes) significantly improved participants’ performance on tasks requiring attention, memory, and problem-solving compared to those who spent time indoors. 

Researchers believe being in nature reduces stress hormones like cortisol, allowing your brain to relax and recharge. Plus, the sights, sounds, and smells of nature engage your senses in a positive way, promoting creative thinking and focus.

Here’s how can you harness the power of nature breaks.

Take a quick walk in the morning to get outside and into nature. It will wake you up and kickstart your day.

Ditch the indoor lunch break and head outside.

Take a mid afternoon walk in a park or simply get out in your backyard. 

Just 15 minutes gazing at the trees and listening to the birds makes a difference.

Remember, taking a break isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a strategic move, a tactical time out. Nature has the power to recharge your brain to come back sharp, creative, and productive.

Your move.

If you liked this post you’ll ❤️ the…PRODUCTIVITY Podcast I host where you get a daily dose of productivity in LESS than 4 minutes a day.