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New research from the Well Living Lab, a Delos and Mayo Clinic collaboration, shows that windows at work can help improve workers' productivity. Dr. Brent Bauer, medical director for the Well Living Lab, says that people are wired to want windows to experience nature.
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"A lot of it centers on what's called biophilia. Bio, life. Philia, meaning love. So we have a love for nature," says Dr. Bauer.
He says the research shows office areas with windows, which provide natural light and views of the outdoors, improve workers' cognitive performance and satisfaction with their office environment.
"How it actually works or what it actually does is a little harder to determine with 100% clarity yet," says Dr. Bauer.
People are happier and healthier when exposed to nature. It may help boost immune function and decrease stress.
Dr. Bauer has two tips on how to work nature into your workspace. If you can move by a window, do it. If not, bring nature into your cubicle.
He says bring in a plant, a small water feature, or items made of wood or stone.
"It seems to be almost as powerful if you have a picture of nature," says Dr. Bauer.
Bring the outside in for better productivity and health.
