Getting outside despite your 9-to-5 job can improve your mental health – here’s how to spend time in nature during and around working hours

In today's society, many people find themselves spending most of their time indoors, commuting, attending meetings, and working on screens. This can make it difficult to find time to be outdoors and enjoy nature. However, recent research indicates that even small interactions with green spaces can offer numerous mental health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting overall well-being.

While it's true that nature's benefits are often associated with exotic vacations or weekend adventures, a growing body of research shows that even brief encounters with green spaces can be highly beneficial. In Denmark, a country consistently ranked among the happiest in the world, I observed that people integrate nature into their daily routines seamlessly.

These urban parks, courtyards, and bicycle paths are not just destinations reserved for special occasions, but rather, they are integral parts of people's everyday lives.

The success of Denmark's approach to incorporating nature into daily life can be attributed to two key factors. Firstly, the country has meticulously planned a network of parks that are thoughtfully designed to cater to various needs. Secondly, nature is fundamentally woven into the routines of everyday life, with green spaces being used for activities such as eating lunch, meeting friends, walking home from work, or simply taking quiet moments to oneself.

This integration of nature into daily routines has been shaped by public policy as well. Initiatives like the National Park Service's Healthy Parks Healthy People and ParkRx programs in the U.S. recognize the importance of access to parks for overall well-being. In cities around the world, everyday parks and nature areas in and around urban areas offer opportunities for people to enjoy the benefits of nature without the need for elaborate trips or specialized gear.