Whatever field or position it may be, people are always guaranteed to find work stressful. That’s an absolute given. While it’s mostly impossible to control workload and deadlines, what your company can do is optimize your office to be one less headache in everyone’s day. A dull and messy office can add unneeded stress and distraction, meanwhile, a balanced and clean workspace can boost productivity and energy. The following are some simple ways to bring zen into the office and transform it from a stressful mess to a serene sanctuary.
Add more green to the office
Plants add a burst of color and texture into an otherwise drab office. Small potted air plants like succulents and cacti look great on individual work desks, while a green wall can dramatically improve an entire workspace. You can work with vertical green wall system suppliers to transform a bare wall in your office into a dedicated urban green space. Having a dedicated area with tons of greenery in your office can bring in moisture and clean indoor air. It’s also been scientifically proven to reduce physiological stress.
Declutter and organize
Everything in the office should have its own place. A cluttered office equals a
cluttered mind. Filing drawers, shelves, storage containers, and desk
organizers are useful for putting paperwork, books, writing materials, and
miscellaneous items in order. Don’t let your co-workers allow paperwork and
files to accumulate on their desks by adequately supplying them with the
appropriate organizational tools.
Decorate with calming colors
Colors have a subtle yet noticeable effect on emotions and productivity. If you want a zen office, the walls of your workspace, as well as your furniture, should all follow a delicate and soothing palette. You can go with earthy colors like blues and greens or muted colors like beige and taupe. Depending on the kind of look your office is going for, darker shades of blue, green, maroon, and brown can also be a great choice.
Improve lighting
Constant exposure to harsh lighting can be detrimental to one’s health and eyesight. It can dull the senses and drain people of creativity and inspiration. If you can, try to maximize the amount of natural light that you let into your space. This can create a fresh and welcoming atmosphere. For artificial light, opt for softer warm hues that are easier on the eyes. A dimming system can also be great for saving energy and for controlling brightness levels.
Keep your space smelling fresh
Aromatherapy treatment uses extracts from plants called essential oils to improve anything from anxiety to poor sleep when you breathe them in or put them on your skin. Freshen the air in your office by using diffusers with scented oils made from either lavender, rosemary, or peppermint. Lavender is associated with contentment and calm and has been known to improve cognitive performance and mood. Rosemary also has positive effects on performance and mood. If the office is particularly stressed and overworked, peppermint is a great pick-me-up that increases memory and alertness.
A zen office has the capacity to promote productivity, quality performance, and efficiency among its workers. Happy, contened, and relaxed employees can get the job done better and faster than employees who are stressed out and overworked.
