In today’s fast-paced world where every activity and movement requires immense pressure, leadership is no different either. It requires great mental and emotional stability and physical tolerance in order to play a key role in decision-making, managing diversities and navigating complexities. It often takes a toll on the most seasoned leaders. This intense pressure of balancing effective leadership with intellectual strength can only be maintained through spiritual development. And this is where “Green Therapy” comes in handy.
A simple walk in nature can be a lot more therapeutic than remaining confined within the walls of our home. It is the simplest remedy that works as a guide for the most effective leadership.
Let us explore green therapy and its physical, mental, and emotional assistance in different aspects of building leadership.
Green therapy, also known as ecotherapy, is a nature-based healing method that involves spending time in a natural environment to enhance physical and mental well-being. It is an age-old way of development and healing which is considered highly beneficial for people of every age. Green therapy offers profound physical and spiritual benefits that are almost impossible to gain from the confines of our home.
PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENT WITH ENERGY RESTORATION
Maintaining physical health is fundamental for any great leader. In fact it is imperative to bring out the best possible result in the field of leading. In this aspect, green therapy is the best way to restore energy and increase productivity. As staying outside works as a motivation to do more exercise or physical activity, it really strengthens muscles and bones, resulting in improved physical stature.
Exposure to nature equals more sunlight, which boosts vitamin D and helps to balance cholesterol. Studies show that spending time outdoors can help enhance sleep quality. All these health benefits are considered crucial for leaders. After all, leaders who prioritise their health are better equipped to handle the demand of their roles.
MENTAL GROWTH WITH GREEN THERAPY
With leadership comes the need for a sense of strategy, concentration and decision-making ability. All these virtues can be achieved through green therapy. Studies have proven that connecting with nature has a positive impact on a person’s cognitive health. It helps to clear the mind, break habitual thought patterns, and inspire more creative thoughts, all of which encourage leaders to conduct their work more passionately.
Nature works as an inspiration for constructive thinking as well, it works as a pillar to problem-solving skills and creative thinking. Whether reimagining strategies or reaching a milestone, leaders always need to stay alert and confident regarding their approach. Mental clarity fostered by nature can always make a massive difference in this regard. The therapeutic effects of greenery are essential in developing long-term focus, work-life balance and leadership capabilities.
STRESS REDUCTION FOR RESILIENT LEADERSHIP
Leadership requires much resilience, and this resilience can only be achieved through stress management. Everyday responsibilities can be quite hectic and high stress levels negatively impact emotional intelligence, which ultimately results in burn-outs and impaired decision-making. Spending time in nature is considered to be a useful stress relief strategy. Research has shown that a simple walk in nature for 20 minutes can decrease cortisol levels responsible for stress. The habit of absorbing natural energy effectively reduces blood pressure and heart rate as well as blood sugar. For leaders, these benefits transform into improved focus, better emotional regulation and overall well-being.
STRENGTHENING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Leadership comes with responsibilities and decision-making. The sense of leading the way for other people to follow can be quite hard, which is why leaders should always be aware of the effects of their decisions. In order to avoid any haste in decision-making and develop problem-solving skills, green therapy can work best. The naturally slow and steady healing process of it can provide emotional cohesion. It teaches mindfulness, which helps leaders to become more attuned to the emotions of everyone and apply constructive approaches to any problem.
Moreover, nature provides an ideal setting for reflection and to understand the perspectives of others. A quiet walk in the woods can offer the solitude needed to process thoughts and get a clearer perspective on challenges.
INCORPORATE GREEN THERAPY INTO THE LIFESTYLE
We have already established the importance of “Green Therapy”; now comes the question of how to incorporate it into our busy schedules. Some practical steps can be:
Taking a walk in the green. A simple walk in nature for a few minutes can do wonders. We can try to spare some time for nature when making an everyday routine.
If a busy schedule demands more indoor activity, bringing greenery to the workspace can be an easy solution. Studies have shown that having indoor plants or natural elements of any sort can bring up the energy to an extent, it ultimately helps to work with more enthusiasm.
Indulging in outdoor activities two or three times a week can also be equally fruitful. Activities like- hiking or gardening are a great way to enjoy green therapy.
