NEW YORK (AP) – Spending time in nature is often invigorating, offering feelings of peace and calmness. However, many professions limit access to the outdoors during work hours, causing a disconnect from the natural world. Anna Rose Smith, a psychotherapist in Utah, struggled with this issue in her first job when she was confined to a windowless office. To cope, she utilized her lunch breaks to walk outside, visiting nearby fountains and gardens, while bringing elements of nature, such as flower petals and leaves, back to her workspace. The soothing sounds of bird songs also became part of her therapy sessions, helping her maintain a connection to the outdoors. Smith remarked, "I can remember... there’s still going to be birds singing," indicating the importance of this connection for mental well-being.
Accessing natural environments, especially in urban areas or during cold weather, can be challenging. Nonetheless, it is still possible to integrate nature into daily routines, even if one works in a cubicle without windows. Innovative approaches include scheduling outdoor meetings. Smith frequently suggests “walk and talk” meetings at local greenways, emphasizing the benefits of engaging with nature while discussing work matters. Mobile technology allows for virtual meetings to take place outside as well. She mentioned, “I do definitely feel more calm,” noting the positive impact of being outdoors on her focus and overall attitude.
Companies are also recognizing the benefits of outdoor settings for employees. Atlantic Packaging, a sustainable packaging manufacturer headquartered in Wilmington, North Carolina, encourages staff to hold meetings in courtyards or to walk while discussing work. The company has included native plants and fig trees in its facilities and introduced a nature challenge where employees track their outdoor time during various activities, such as dog walking or enjoying sunsets. Becca Schusler, the wellness director, noted that employees shared their nature experiences through photos, which fostered a sense of community and belonging. Reports indicated that participating in nature-related activities contributed to better stress management among employees.
Additionally, Atlantic Packaging has instigated “Walk it out Wednesdays,” where employees gather for group walks, providing a much-needed break to rejuvenate throughout the workday. Similar initiatives have been observed at Ford Motor Company, which encouraged outdoor movement during the redesign of its Dearborn, Michigan headquarters in 2025. The design included walking paths, outdoor meeting spaces, and native plants, aiming to create a healthier work environment. Jennifer Kolstad, Ford's global and brand design director, emphasized the company's commitment to designing spaces that promote physical and mental well-being.
During winter months, when outdoor access may be limited, simple solutions like utilizing windows for natural light can also help bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor environments. At Ford’s headquarters, offices were strategically placed to maximize access to natural light through tall windows. Employees are encouraged to incorporate greenery into their spaces, as Smith did when she kept a pothos plant in her windowless office to maintain a connection to nature.
Active commuting, such as biking or walking to work, can further enhance the connection with the outdoors. Many urban areas have bicycle-sharing programs, and dressing appropriately for colder weather can help individuals make the most out of their commutes. Erin Mantz, a Washington, D.C. resident and marketing vice president at Zeno Group, incorporates walking her dog and attending early-morning Pilates classes into her routine, benefiting from the fresh air and outdoor activity. Reflecting on her childhood in Chicago, she emphasized the importance of maintaining a connection with nature for relaxation and rejuvenation.
This growing recognition of outdoor experiences illustrates a broader understanding of workplace wellness. As professionals increasingly seek to incorporate nature into their daily routines, companies are looking for innovative ways to encourage outdoor engagement that can lead to improved mental health, focus, and overall employee satisfaction.
