The benefits of outdoor team building activities on mental health

Getting outside and away from screens is a crucial way to recharge as a team. We thought we would discuss the benefits of outdoor adventure with you and show you how to really avoid employee burnout through...

Getting outside and away from screens is a crucial way to recharge as a team. We thought we would discuss the benefits of outdoor adventure with you and show you how to really avoid employee burnout through outdoor collaborative team bonding in The New Forest. In today’s fast-paced world, where work pressures and personal challenges can take a toll on our mental well-being, the importance of maintaining a healthy mind has never been more crucial and getting outside can provide that welcome break you are in need of. 

Team building can be done in a conference room or through some simple team building exercises, but why should you step outside to refuel your team and grow relationships? 

We are here to tell you some key benefits your team will receive by just having a few hours in the outdoors trying something new!

1. Reducing stress levels 

Getting outside and taking part in some light hearted team activities can significantly reduce stress levels and give a serotonin boost! Simply by breathing in clean countryside air and engaging in physical activity, whether that be paddling along the Beaulieu River or seeing the greenery from a height on our Ropes Course, you will feel much more peace when connected with nature and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

2. Creating focus and enhancing connection with your team

These are two powerful things that can be done simply by stepping outside and spending some time together bonding and supporting each other through a variety of team tasks. Creating the opportunity for your team to bond and communicate, think outside the box all as one is a powerful tool and can be strengthened through outdoor activity. This can be through navigating a walking map to take you through the trails of The New Forest or going one step further and building communication skills and teamwork by taking on our BattleZone.

3. Promoting physical activity

Sitting in an office all day and staring at screens can make you feel lethargic which in turn makes you feel like you are getting run down. If you don't take that time to go for a stroll on your lunch break, you should! Outdoor team building activities are guaranteed to keep you moving and keep the blood pumping! Whether you have a variety of ages in your team who want to keep away from the running and heights and go for something more low level like building a shelter on a Bushcraft session, physical activity of any kind is a natural energy booster.

4. Breaking away from the daily routine

The change in scenery and pace of outdoor team-building activities provides a much-needed mental reset. This mental break helps combat burnout and enhances creativity. A fresh perspective, along with the joy of engaging in something different and enjoyable, can lead to increased motivation and enthusiasm when going back to the daily routine. 

5. Creating lasting positive memories

However your team choose to bond, the outside is a great way to do so. Whether it’s the shared laughter during a cooperative game, the sense of achievement after completing a challenge, or the bond created through overcoming an obstacle together, these positive experiences can create a sense of fulfilment and happiness that lasts well beyond the event itself. This is something that we pride ourselves on and feel grateful we have sites in The New Forest that provide enlightening experiences for teams. 

By taking the time to connect with nature and work collaboratively in a team, individuals can build resilience, enhance their emotional awareness, and return to their daily lives with renewed mental energy and clarity. Whether it’s a corporate retreat or a more casual work social outing, embracing the outdoors can be a powerful tool for improving mental health and creating a more balanced, positive mindset. If you would like us to help your team reconnect and refocus in The New Forest using outdoor activities, get in touch with us HERE!