Health, Remote Working|

Let There Be Light: How Natural Lighting Can Improve Productivity

hands type on a laptop to start a newsletter while the sun peeks in through the window in the background

As the days grow longer and the sunlight stretches well into the evening, there’s a renewed sense of energy and potential that fills the air. But did you know that access to natural light in an office environment has its benefits, too?  It’s not just about creating a bright and welcoming space; there’s a science behind it that significantly boosts productivity. Whether you’re finishing a project or starting a new venture, the extra daylight can help improve your mood, energy levels, and focus. Let’s explore how leveraging this natural light can transform your workday from routine to remarkable.

1. Improved Mood and Well-Being

Boosts Mood: Natural light is a powerful mood enhancer. Exposure to sunlight increases the production of serotonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in mood regulation. With the majority of our workspaces in direct proximity to natural light sources, it’s easy to soak up those rays while working. And, it’s a bonus if you grab a seat along a river-front window!

Reduces Stress: Beyond improving mood, natural light helps in reducing cortisol levels, which in turn decreases stress and anxiety. With treeline views and a lack of overhead fluorescent lighting, your workday can feel calmer and less stressful.

wide angle view of the haven flexible workspace in bend oregon

2. Better Quality Sleep

Regulates Circadian Rhythms: A productive day begins with a good night’s sleep. Natural light exposure during the day helps regulate your circadian rhythms, which manage your sleep-wake cycles. This regulation supports better sleep quality and, consequently, higher productivity and alertness the following day.

You can tap into the early morning light when you start your day with a cup of coffee on the Haven Deck or in The Refuge quiet working area!

3. Enhanced Concentration and Focus

Reduces Eye Strain: Staring at a computer screen all day is less taxing when accompanied by natural light. The Haven was designed with this in mind, placing workstations in areas that receive ample daylight. Thereby reducing eye strain and fatigue.

Increases Alertness: Natural lighting throughout our coworking space helps ward off the mid-afternoon slump. Continuous exposure to sunlight keeps you alert and minimizes feelings of drowsiness, keeping your energy levels consistently high throughout the day.

The Perch conference room at The Haven.

4. Higher Energy Levels

Vitamin D Production: Of course, sunlight is a great source of Vitamin D, essential for maintaining energy levels and staying healthy as a remote worker. Whether soaking in the skylight in The Café or focusing in The Library, the amount of natural light offers not only a beautiful workspace but the benefits from essential nutrients that keep you energized and productive.

5. Improved Work Environment

Aesthetic Appeal: There’s no denying that a workspace bathed in sunlight is more inviting and pleasant. Natural light enhances the aesthetic appeal of our flexible work and office spaces can boost morale. Wouldn’t that make you look forward to coming to work every day?

Connection to Nature: Our large windows provide views of the beautiful Deschutes River, River Trail, and Southwest Bend treeline. This offers a visual break and a connection to nature, which can be incredibly refreshing and inspiring during a busy workday. Not to mention, the blue mind effect from nearby flowing waters.

Southern views of Bend, Oregon with pink sky as the sun rises over the Deschutes River

6. Cognitive Benefits

Enhanced Creativity: Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can stimulate creativity and innovation. Our environment aims to foster not just routine tasks but also the innovative thinking necessary for problem-solving and advancement.

Improved Learning and Retention: For those involved in continuous professional development, natural light can enhance learning outcomes and aid in better memory retention.

Practical Tips for Leveraging Natural Light for Office Workers

  • Position Desks Near Windows: We encourage you to choose a workspace near our large windows to take full advantage of the natural light.
  • Opt for Open Layouts: The Haven’s layout is intentionally open, allowing light to flow freely and reach all corners of the coworking space, even those not along the windows.
  • Take Breaks Outside: Bask in the sunlight on the deck, where you can enjoy covered lounge space or sit in the sunshine facing the Deschutes River. Or, enjoy an outdoor springtime activity before getting back to work.
group of people sit along table-lined windows while remote working, overlooking pine trees and Deschutes river in Bend Oregon

Start Boosting Productivity

By integrating these elements, The Haven Coworking creates an optimal environment that promotes well-being and productivity. Whether you’re a freelancer, a remote worker, or part of a dynamic startup, experiencing the benefits of natural light at The Haven can transform your work and elevate your professional achievements.

Let the light in and see how coworking can boost your feelings of wellness and productivity! Get a day pass or sign up for a trial membership to see if coworking is right for you.

Meet the author

Headshot of Nancy Patterson

Nancy Patterson

Haven Member, Social Media Manager

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