Wellness Breaks: Incorporating Hiking Routes into Remote Work Routine
In recent years, various industries worldwide have adopted a hybrid or remote work pattern. This popular shift is mainly driven by advancements in technology. COVID-19 contributed to this tendency.
In the USA alone, the number of remote workers skyrocketed from 17 to 44%. As a result, more and more companies are seeking home-based employees.
This change reshapes the idea of a traditional workplace – employees work from home environments, co-working spaces, or even while traveling.
You may have heard a multitude of benefits about this tendency, but do not ignore its shortcomings. The rise of remote work has also brought new challenges, especially concerning maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Let’s see how to prevent the negative outcome via different outdoor activities, particularly hiking.
How does remote work impact well-being?
Working from home is convenient and flexible. At first glance, it only helps employees to harmonize their work-life balance.
However, when you turn your home into your workplace, you may end up mentally and physically in a real mess. Why does it happen?
- Loneliness and social isolation. Remote work can make people feel isolated and lonely. It can lead to depression and other mental health problems. When there is no job satisfaction, it is immediately reflected by poor productivity and mistakes.
- Lack of communication. Everyday interaction in the office brings people together. When you and your colleagues work from different locations, you lose touch with each other. Remote workers may miss even irritating moments of office life. Reflecting on the challenges of remote work, such as detrimental mental health effects, can signify a need to explore ways on how to manage depressive episodes.
- Blurred working schedule. When you work from home, you lose track of time. As a result, you overwork and ruin a healthy balance between your work and personal life.
- Physical state. Remote work can also affect our bodies. Home-based people exercise less, lead inactive lifestyles and experience musculoskeletal issues. These problems can contribute to health issues like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis over time.
Luckily, there are many ways to create a wellness program for remote teams and cultivate a healthier work-from-home routine.
Time for a wellness break!
A wellness break for a remote team is a special activity for individuals to break from their screens and engage in activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
These breaks can vary in duration and format. The variants range from short mindfulness exercises to longer outdoor activities like hiking or yoga sessions.
The goal of a wellness break is to encourage employees to recharge and rejuvenate. A well-thought-out wellness program enhances productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.
The ability to prioritize self-care and devote time to relaxation and physical activity allows remote teams to develop a healthier work-life balance and create a supportive and positive work environment.
Let’s focus on hiking, an activity that keeps gaining popularity!
How can hiking help remote workers recharge?
Many of you may think that hiking is too complicated and is not the optimal choice for remote workers. However, it comes with many benefits, especially for those who work from home:
- Mental healing. Hiking allows individuals to disconnect from their screens and merge with nature. It can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
- Hiking provides an opportunity for physical exercise. It promotes cardiovascular health, improves stamina, and boosts fitness levels.
- Physical reshape. The outdoor environment and natural scenery enhance mood and creativity. It leads to increased productivity and focus when returning to work.
- Inspirational effect. Hiking encourages mindfulness and relaxation, as individuals can enjoy the serenity of their surroundings and engage in deep breathing exercises or meditation while exploring the trails.
Overall, hiking offers a holistic wellness experience that addresses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It is ideal for remote workers looking to recharge and rejuvenate during their breaks.
How to choose a hiking route?
To make your hiking break enjoyable for everyone in your team, you must approach the preparation wisely. Here are some tips that might help you.
- Assess the capabilities of participants. Consider team members' physical abilities and hiking experience to choose a route that suits everyone. It can be a simple daily local hike or a serious challenge like the 170-km Tour du Mont Blanc.
- Check trail accessibility. Choose a trail that is easily accessible to all team members. Consider factors such as affordability, transportation options, and other nuances. Do not the preferences and interests of team members when choosing a hiking destination
- Research trail details. Research the trail conditions: terrain, elevation gain, trail length, and weather forecasts. Select a hiking route with minimal risks and hazards. Opt for routes suitable for the season and weather conditions.
- Plan logistics. It includes transportation, parking, permits and accommodation. Besides, prepare the necessary hiking gear – you can buy or rent it.
Summing up
Hiking is not the only outdoor activity that is great for wellness and recharge. You can opt for cycling, yoga, or just leisure time in nature. This type of break provides opportunities to recharge, distress, and refocus.
Physical activities in the open nature stimulate creativity, reduce burnout, and help remote workers achieve a healthier work-life balance and optimize their overall performance.