We’re wired to respond to nature and ‘green microbreaks’ prove it
August 25, 2015
By Brian Maynor
Fashion is often inspired by nature, whether its color, prints, patterns or even texture, but those are just a few of the many ways we can always turn to nature for help.
New research from the University of Melbourne studied the effect of looking at nature for a mere 40 seconds and the results were astounding. Two test groups were asked to strike keys when certain numbers flashed on the screen when they were both given 40-second breaks. One group saw a plain concrete roof and the other group saw a roof covered with a flowering green meadow. When the task resumed concentration levels fell 8% in the first group and their performance grew less consistent while concentration levels rose 6% in the second group and performance held steady.
What does that mean for us and our daily grind? A lot. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Looking at nature, even a picture or screensaver can help you regain your concentration. We instinctively feel nature is good for us, so if walking outside or looking at a green space from your window isn’t an option find your favorite outdoor screensaver and use it. The effects are surprisingly similar. And it doesn’t have to be a lush forest scene or mountain setting. Looking at urban green spaces and smaller parks has the same effect.
2. Improved concentration translates well in the workplace. Along with better focus, these ‘green microbreaks’ as researchers have dubbed them help improve attention and performance. That means fewer periods of distraction or wandering minds so you can complete your tasks quicker and with more accuracy.
3. Nature affects us differently. One of the major theories regarding the benefits of nature on us is ‘attention restoration theory’. This is based on the fact that nature is effortless fascinating, meaning it captures our attention without us having to consciously focus on it. Our daily tasks require attention control, or effort to stay focused, and that is a limited resource. So by staring into a natural setting we allow our brains to replenish those stores.
4. 40-seconds are just the average. When we have the opportunity to choose how long we take a microbreak, on average it’s 40 seconds. This is great news for people who feel chained to their desks. So when you can’t get away and walk downstairs or around the block because you don’t have that much time, you have options that are just as powerful and less time consuming.
When we think about nature as a source of restoration, inspiration and solace it’s easy to think of walking though the woods or along the beach, spending time in sprawling meadows or hiking through the mountains, but when you don’t have access or time for those options, it’s astonishing to know the effects are still available from a small urban park or even a screensaver. The real thing will always be preferred, but for 40 seconds beggars can’t be choosers.
Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
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