Nature and Happiness: Two ingredients for a high performing business

In 2025, the results of a survey conducted across 30 countries suggested that in the long term, people are becoming less happy. Traditionally, this has often been linked to unemployment, political unrest, and economic turmoil. 

With so much focus on our professional achievements or financial security, it’s no wonder why business owners, leadership teams, and HR directors are looking for something different - something to give them the edge in a world that is driven by AI, performance targets and stress.

After all, targets and employee incentive schemes can only motivate and inspire so much. With this in mind, we want to bring the focus of enrichment back to nature (as we so often do) and why the simple reconnection with nature can improve our feelings of happiness.

A corporate away day in nature, deep in The Bioasis.

How does nature impact our feelings of happiness?

It’s simple really - exposure to natural sunlight boosts serotonin production in the brain, helping us to regulate our moods and feel more positive. The addition of fresh air, a slower pace, and the immersion in plant and animal life can all contribute to feeling more positive. Just think about how rich this experience is for the senses - the smell of fresh rainfall, the sounds of the birds in the trees, the grass beneath your feet, and the sight of new growth. In fact, regular time spent outside can reduce or prevent feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.

It’s not hard to see why - being outside is time away from screens, distractions, pressure, targets, and tension. If we’re outside - and we’re truly present - we’re able to be more creative and productive. It gives the brain a chance to recharge and reset - creating space for clarity and innovation.

Woodland Meditation on a Bioasis retreat

Why aren’t we getting outside like we used to?

According to data collected by the ONS (Office of National Statistics) in 2022, an “estimated 1.1million fewer people across the UK gained health benefits from spending time in nature”. This is compared with the results from two years prior. Of course, this is being measured against data collected during the COVID-19 lockdowns, where immersion of nature became a single daily freedom. Since then, we’re busier and more locked in than ever - we’re in the office, working from home, working from anywhere instead of being outside.

What changes can we make right now?

You might be surprised to learn that there is in fact a recommendation for the amount of time that should be spent in nature. The answer? 2-3 hours. That’s it. Just 30 minutes each working day.

That could be a walk, run, swim (if you’re brave) or time spent pottering the garden.

Whatever activity you or your team choose, those who stick to this routine were more likely to report high levels of satisfaction with their lives. 

Adventure, exercise and nature. The perfect company off-site.

Just imagine the possibilities…

When people are happier, they’re often healthier. If we’re reducing stress and anxiety, we’re improving health. If we’re improving productivity, we’re increasing profits. If we’re creating opportunities for growth, we’re opening up the potential for change.

If we’re able to achieve this because we’re spending 2-3 hours outside a week, how much could be achieved in 2-3 days?

Well, join us on the Happiness Retreat - 24th to 26th June and find out for yourself.