Why is being in nature the quickest way out of corporate burnout? Experts tell us

Oh, the joy of chasing waves on a beach, hiking up a hill for a breathtaking view, sipping cocktails by the pool, or swapping your phone’s notification tone for the sweet chirps of birds (with an occasional crow disrupting the rhythm)! We bet, if you actually end up going for those short trips and weekend getaways that you daydream about at your desk, corporate burnout would be a non-existent concept (of course, we are assuming everyone has experienced it at least once in their working years). But in our real (and busy) world, these small breaks and time-offs seem more farfetched than those unrealistic deadlines you need to meet. But it doesn't have to be that way. Take this article as a cue to take a break from work and step out into nature to appreciate the little things just a bit more.

Remind yourself that it’s alright to be offline, and an occasional digital detox will relax and rejuvenate you. This, in turn, significantly benefits both your personal and professional life, helping you return to work refreshed and ready to be productive. As psychologist and TEDx speaker Ekta Khurana puts it, “As a therapist who frequently leads retreats, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative effects of disconnecting from technology and immersing in nature. Technology, while incredibly useful, often pulls us away from being present in the moment. This constant connectivity creates a disconnect between our physical presence and mental attention, leading to increased anxiety and stress.”

We all know that spending time in nature can have a profound impact on us. Imagine heading off to a beach destination, staring at the sunset as azure waves swallow the sun, or stepping into the cool waters, awakening your senses. If a beach getaway is your idea of a perfect break, SaffronStays offers a swanky Mediterranean beachside escape named Aquamarina. Located by Nagaon Beach in Alibaug, this getaway is perfect for Mumbai residents.

“Corporate life can be incredibly demanding. Thus, many are turning to secluded retreats in the midst of nature. At SaffronStays, these retreats are not just about escaping stress but also about creating lasting memories,” Devendra Parulekar, founder of SaffronStays said. Truly so. At Aquamarina, you can take in stunning sea views, laze in your private swimming pool, or just be in the lush lawns or charming gazebo; the tranquil environment here is perfect for unwinding. You can also enjoy bonfires, live music, and outdoor picnic setups. However, according to Parulekar, one of the most unique features of the property is its proximity to Nagaon Beach. "It allows guests to enjoy the experience of arriving by speedboat,” he says.

Although escaping into nature seems to be the top choice for giving ourselves a break, we’ve all got our preferences. While some may enjoy splashing around on the beach, some may prefer the quiet of a forest. There is something about the rustling leaves or waking up to the sound of birds that makes one feel calm and relaxed, and all this, minus your office email notifications. The only side effect this may have is that you’ll never want to leave! If this sounds like your idea of a getaway, Jehan Numa Wilderness will sweep you off your feet with the opportunity to board at lodges close to the Satpura National Park and Tiger Reserve and spend time on safaris and nature hikes.

“Jehan Numa Wilderness primarily offers wildlife and nature-based experiences. In today’s fast-paced life, being in nature itself is a novelty, and these experiences add to the well-being of our guests," shares Aly Rashid, founder and director of Jehan Numa Wilderness. Over the years, the property has adopted various measures to keep the surrounding safe and unadulterated. Guests are encouraged to walk, canoe, camp, or cycle to explore the forest rather than using vehicles. This way, they are closer to nature and the area is safeguarded. You can treat yourself to a relaxing spa after an activity-filled day or opt for the ‘camping under the stars’ programme for a transformative experience. And for those who take their time with nature seriously, there is a mobile camp deep in the wilderness, set up exclusively for guests who would like to leave zero footprint or impact. And if you are lucky, you may just hear animal calls, including those of tigers!  

As working individuals, it is necessary to understand our body’s cues to cater to our physical and mental well-being. Knowing when to step away and relax can be paramount to preventing corporate burnout. “Burnout happens when an individual experiences prolonged emotional, physical, and mental fatigue. Common physical symptoms that you may notice are frequent illness, body aches, sleep disorders, lack of energy, and frequent headaches. It also leads to a lower bar for tolerance. You might get frustrated easily, find it difficult to concentrate, distance yourself emotionally from work and relationships, and have mood issues. Being away from the daily stressors and in a calming, novel environment can inspire people to approach the issues with creative solutions, and may also allow them to reflect and reconnect with themselves and their colleagues,” explained Dhruvika Jhala, a psychologist, clinical hypnotherapist, and co-founder of SafeNest Mental Health Consultancy.

Jhala further stressed the benefits of nature to help with burnout, “Research cites the importance of exposure to nature in countering burnout effects. The breathing and mindfulness training provided on natural retreats, if practised regularly, can improve self-regulation and reduce emotional exhaustion. While a single retreat is not a permanent solution for the issue, it may help the individual begin a journey toward change.”

For the daredevils who believe the best way to unwind is by heading up a hill or off to the mountains to escape the stress of deadlines and the heat of the city, there is no place better than the hill stations. Waking up to the sight of misty mountains and feeling the chill in the early morning air is like therapy. If you were to add a spin of luxury to this entire ordeal, the endless pampering and breathtaking views would make for the perfect getaway.

At Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa guests can sign up for a comprehensive well-being spa experience with a range of rejuvenating treatments, go for a serene Malsi walk followed by a yoga session amid nature, or take the the adventurous Shikhar Fall Trek that provides stunning views of the landscape. Guests can also partake in poolside yoga sessions, combining the tranquillity of water with mindfulness practice. Those seeking a fun and energetic workout can sign up for Bollywood fitness dance sessions. Additionally, thrill-seekers can experience go for white water rafting with experts or go for Mussoorie night camping to immerse in the beauty of the night sky and the serenity of the hills. "Diverse activities are crafted to promote physical and mental well-being, making the Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa a perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure,” shares Sumit Kumar, general manager at Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa.

After reading this, we hope you are motivated to pack your bags and take your time to recharge. In the rush to meet deadlines and respond to urgent emails, we often forget to prioritise ourselves. If you haven’t taken a break in a while, consider this your sign to do so. Step away from your desk and chase the waves or take a walk through nature. It's essential to take time to fill your own cup because you can't pour from an empty one.

Image credit: Jehan Numa Retreat

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