7 Tips to Get Outside During Your Work Day: Boost Your Productivity and Well-Being
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of emails, meetings, and endless to-do lists. With so much to focus on, the idea of stepping outside during the workday can often feel like an afterthought. However, taking even short breaks to get outdoors can have significant benefits for your productivity, creativity, and overall mental and physical well-being.
Whether you’re working from home, at the office, or a mix of both, here are 7 practical tips to help you step outside and make the most of your workday breaks.
1. Schedule Time for Fresh Air
One of the easiest ways to make sure you’re getting outside during your workday is by scheduling it. Treat your outdoor time like any other important meeting or task. Block off 10-15 minutes on your calendar midday, and stick to it as much as possible. By scheduling these breaks, you’re ensuring that you prioritize your mental health and well-being even when your to-do list is long.
2. Take a Walking Meeting
If you have a virtual or phone meeting, why not turn it into a walking meeting? Stepping outside while discussing projects or brainstorming ideas is a great way to stay active and clear your mind. A change of environment often leads to fresh perspectives, and you’ll likely find that you’re more creative when you step away from your desk.
Even if your meeting is in person, consider taking it outdoors. A quick walk around the block or finding a nearby park can make all the difference in how productive and energized you feel afterward.
3. Go for a Lunchtime Walk
Instead of eating lunch at your desk, take a break and go for a walk. Whether it’s a stroll around your neighborhood or a walk through a nearby park, stepping outside during your lunch hour helps break up the workday and provides a mental reset. Plus, it’s a great way to add some movement to your day if you’re usually sitting for long periods. The change in scenery will refresh your mind and help you return to work with more energy and focus.
4. Use a Standing Desk or Outdoor Workspace
If you work remotely or have the flexibility to adjust your workspace, consider setting up a portable standing desk or bringing your laptop outside. Whether you’re working on a patio, balcony, or just sitting in your yard, a change of scenery can provide a mental boost. The fresh air and sunlight will help increase your serotonin levels, which can improve your mood and motivation.
If you’re in an office setting, try taking your laptop or notebook outside during a break or lunch hour, if possible. Even stepping into a courtyard or the parking lot for a few minutes can make a big difference.
5. Set a Timer for Outdoor Breaks
It’s easy to get absorbed in work and forget to take breaks. To combat this, set a timer on your phone or computer that reminds you to step outside every couple of hours. This can be a simple 5-minute walk, a quick stretch outside, or even just stepping out to get some fresh air. These mini breaks throughout the day help reduce stress, improve concentration, and prevent burnout from prolonged periods of sitting.
6. Incorporate Movement with Outdoor Exercise
Combine your outdoor time with exercise. If you can, try to step outside for a quick workout during the day, whether it’s a jog, a short yoga session, or even stretching in the park. Exercise boosts energy levels, sharpens focus, and increases productivity. Additionally, the combination of fresh air and physical movement helps reduce anxiety and improves mood. Even a brief 15-minute walk or jog can make you feel more energized for the rest of your day.
7. Get Outside to Recharge Your Mind
Sometimes, the best way to recharge isn’t by browsing social media or watching a video—it’s by simply taking a break outside. If you're feeling mentally drained or stuck on a challenging task, step outside for some fresh air. The simple act of disconnecting from your work environment and focusing on nature can reset your brain and help you return to your tasks with renewed clarity and energy.
Try mindfulness techniques while you’re outside, such as focusing on your breath or paying attention to the sounds around you. This can enhance the restorative benefits of your break and help you return to work feeling more balanced and focused.
Final Thoughts: A Simple Change for Big Benefits
We all know how easy it is to get immersed in work and forget to take care of ourselves, but making time for the outdoors during your workday is an easy and effective way to improve your health, focus, and mood. Whether it’s scheduling outdoor breaks, moving meetings outside, or simply taking a walk at lunch, these small changes can have a huge impact on your overall well-being.
Remember, getting outside doesn’t have to take a long time or be complicated—it’s about making the most of the time you have and using nature to recharge. So, take a deep breath, step outside, and enjoy the benefits of a little fresh air!