The Benefits of Getting Outside During the Workday

By Nicole Marino, AMFT

In today’s fast-paced, screen-driven world, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of sitting at a desk, eyes glued to a monitor, and feeling disconnected from the world around you. Whether you work from home, in an office, or at a co-working space, taking time to step outside during your workday can have a powerful effect on both your productivity and well-being.

 Getting outside throughout the day boosts mental clarity and focus. Taking a break outside—even for just 10 minutes—helps clear the mental clutter. Exposure to natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and can improve your focus and alertness. A quick walk around the block or even standing in a sunny spot can reset your mind, making it easier to move onto further work tasks. It also reduces stress and increases productivity. Spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and help you feel calmer overall. It can help energy levels, reduce the risk of burnout, improve creativity and problem-solving, improve physical health, and promote better sleep. As stated, getting outside has so many amazing health benefits even for a few minutes here and there.

How to Get Outside During Your Workday

It might seem challenging to leave your desk throughout a busy workday, but there are many options that can accommodate your schedule ensuring you are still getting what you need to get done.

1. Schedule Outdoor Breaks

Treat your outdoor time like any other meeting or appointment. Put it on your calendar so you don’t forget! Whether it’s a 10-minute walk after lunch or a 5-minute stretch outside before your next call, having it on your schedule makes it more likely to happen.

2. Walk and Talk

If you have a phone call or video conference that doesn’t require a screen, consider walking while you chat. This helps you get your steps in and is a great way to combine productivity and physical activity.

3. Take Your Lunch Break Outside

Instead of eating at your desk, step outside for your lunch. Finding a nice area to sit and take a break from being inside, can help give you balance throughout the day.

4. Create an Outdoor Workspace (When Possible)

If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard or balcony, consider taking your laptop outside for a change of scenery. Of course, this only works if your work environment is conducive to being outside and if you more than likely work from home, but if that meets your work description then this is a great option!

5. Take Small Breaks in Nature

You don’t have to spend hours outdoors to reap the benefits. A few minutes here and there—whether it’s stepping outside for a quick breath of fresh air or taking a short walk during a break—can add up over time.

6. Join or Start a Walking Group

If you work in an office and are looking for a way to encourage outdoor breaks, consider starting or joining a walking group. Set up a regular time to walk with colleagues—whether it’s during lunch, after work, or in the morning—and turn it into a social activity. This can also be a great way to bond with coworkers while getting your daily steps in.

From Stress To Success: Navigating Finances As A Couple

Money can be a sensitive topic for many couples, and it’s no surprise why. Our financial habits, values, and goals are deeply personal, often shaped by unique life experiences. Yet, when two people come together to build a life, their financial worlds must also align. Unfortunately, the conversations required to merge these worlds can be fraught with tension, misunderstandings, and even conflict.

As the holiday season wraps up, many couples may find themselves facing the financial aftermath of gift-giving, travel expenses, and festive celebrations. These additional pressures can highlight existing money-related challenges or create new ones. It’s not uncommon to feel stuck or overwhelmed by financial discussions during this time, especially when budgets are tight, or spending has exceeded expectations. But avoiding these conversations can lead to resentment, mistrust, and even larger problems down the road.

The good news? With empathy, teamwork, and the right tools, financial discussions can become a source of connection rather than division. In this guide, we’ll explore practical and compassionate ways to navigate financial discussions as a couple, helping you build trust, achieve shared goals, and strengthen your relationship. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about understanding each other and creating a future you both feel excited about.

Address the Financial Stress of the Holidays

The holiday season can amplify financial strain, with gift-giving, travel expenses, and social events adding up quickly. To navigate this together, set a clear holiday budget that includes gifts, travel, and entertainment. Consider alternatives like homemade gifts or experiences rather than material items. Openly discuss priorities for the season, and remember that shared moments often mean more than extravagant purchases. Approaching the holidays as a team can help reduce stress and keep your relationship strong.

Create a Judgment-Free Zone

Financial discussions can feel vulnerable, especially if one partner is dealing with debt or has different spending habits. Establish a safe space where both of you can share openly without fear of judgment. Set the tone by focusing on teamwork rather than blame. For example, instead of saying, “You’re always overspending,” try, “How can we work together to stick to our budget?”

Set a Regular Money Date

Rather than addressing financial matters only during crises, schedule regular “money dates” to review your finances. These can be monthly check-ins to discuss your budget, savings, and goals. Make it a routine, and even add some fun elements—like ordering your favorite takeout or celebrating small financial wins—to keep it positive and engaging.

Understand Each Other’s Money Mindset

Each person’s relationship with money is shaped by their upbringing, experiences, and values. Take time to understand your partner’s financial mindset. Are they a saver or a spender? Do they feel anxious about debt? Understanding these perspectives can help you approach discussions with empathy and find common ground.

Be Transparent About Your Financial Situation

Honesty is essential in any relationship, especially when it comes to finances. Share your full financial picture, including income, debts, credit scores, and savings. Transparency builds trust and allows you to create a realistic financial plan together. If this feels overwhelming, start small and gradually share more details over time.

Set Shared Goals

One of the most effective ways to align financially is by setting shared goals. Whether it’s saving for a vacation, buying a home, or planning for retirement, having common objectives can transform financial discussions from stressful to inspiring. Break these goals into manageable steps and track your progress together.

Create a Joint Budget—With Flexibility

A well-thought-out budget is a powerful tool for financial harmony. Start by listing your combined income and expenses, then allocate funds for essentials, savings, and discretionary spending. Remember to leave room for individual flexibility; this ensures that both partners have some autonomy while sticking to the plan.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If financial discussions consistently lead to conflict, consider seeking help from a financial advisor or couples therapist. Couples therapy, in particular, can help uncover underlying emotional triggers tied to money, improve communication, and strengthen your partnership. A therapist can guide you in developing healthier financial habits while addressing any lingering issues that might be impacting your relationship. Financial coaches can also help create a roadmap tailored to your unique situation.

Celebrate Milestones Together

Financial progress can feel slow, so it’s important to celebrate achievements along the way. Whether you’ve paid off a credit card, reached a savings goal, or stuck to your budget for six months, take time to acknowledge your hard work as a team. Celebrations reinforce positive behaviors and keep you motivated.

Overcoming financial discussions as a couple requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to collaborate. By fostering open communication, setting shared goals, and supporting each other through challenges, you can turn financial talks into opportunities to grow closer. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress—and the journey is always better when you’re in it together. Every step you take toward financial harmony strengthens the trust and connection you share as a couple. Whether it’s tackling debt, planning for future dreams, or simply agreeing on a weekly budget, each discussion brings you closer to a partnership built on mutual respect and shared vision. Keep the focus on your shared values and aspirations, and let those guide your financial decisions. Together, you have the power to navigate any challenge and create a life that reflects both your hearts and your goals.