Nature & Productivity
Knowledge work is typically conducted in a closed room, using a computer, away from nature, sitting for long stretches of time. We also typically measure knowledge work productivity by the amount of time spent sitting in a closed room using a computer.
This seems rather unnatural and out of sync with human nature. There is mind, and there is body, and they both exist inseparable from each other. Knowledge work places particular pressure on the mind, often reinforcing the feeling of duality/separation between mind and body we in the West take for granted.
We conduct our lives totally identified with the mind and every single thought that arises, fully convinced that's the truth and there is nothing else. We are prey to a mini-me located in the head, believing everything it says. The mini-me swims in the mind doing whatever it wants, swinging across neural networks.
I've recently come across research about nature and its impact on attention, which directly impacts productivity. Nature walks have a positive impact on productivity and overall mood, by way of replenishing direct attention (focused attention, the kind of attention drained by any kind of activity that requires narrow focus). Immersion in nature often, undistracted from sources that require direct attention, without any external crutch such as phones, restores a sense of awe and reality into the mind and body.
When returning to work after a break in nature, energy levels are higher and clarity of mind enhanced. The direct attention progress bar is refueled. We can now act from a place of clarity, intrinsic motivation, and joy rather than from a place of overwhelm, fear, tiredness.
This is part of a broader theme that seems increasingly true to me and is being uncovered by evidence: you can't only live in the mind. A human needs embodiment by way of movement and the integration of physical and mental activities. One without the other creates blockages in the natural flow of a human system.
The practical implication of all of this is to regularly take breaks from directed attention screen-staring activities and get into panoramic attention, possibly directly in nature surroundings.
You may feel resistance to the application of this concept because “there is no time for this oh my god how can i ever find time to take a walk in nature with all the things i have to do and all the responsibilities and i have to pay the bills right right and if i don’t keep control who does it for me?” You are missing the point - you may find it later. No words of persuasions are effective like direct experience. Let your friend know.