Boosting Productivity and Well-being: How to Incorporate Nature into Your Workspace

In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, we often forget that our species, Homo sapiens, has been around for approximately 2 million years, but we’ve only been living in built environments for the last 8-10 thousand years. This stark contrast explains why we feel more grounded and regulated in nature. It’s in our DNA, it’s where we come from, and it’s what our brains are wired for.

The field of design has started to recognize this innate connection we have with nature. Incorporating scientific principles into design, especially those related to our natural environment, can have profound effects on our well-being. This approachis about creating spaces that not only look good but also promote health and well-being.

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to bring nature into our workspace is by adding plants. Plants, even faux ones, can significantly reduce stress and enhance creativity and aid in emotional regulation. They provide a sense of calm and can improve air quality (real ones only), leading to a healthier and more productive workspace.

In addition to plants, other natural elements like wood and fractal patterns can also have a positive impact. Wood, with its warm and earthy tones, can make a space feel more inviting and comfortable. Fractal patterns, which are complex patterns that repeat at different scales and are common in nature, can stimulate our brains in a positive way and can be incorporated into artwork, furniture, and even the architecture of the space.

In conclusion, by understanding our deep-rooted connection with nature and incorporating elements of it into our workspace, we can create an environment that not only boosts productivity but also promotes physical and mental well-being. Who doesn’t want that?