Abstract

Workplace stress is a common issue that can cause a range of debilitating health outcomes including depression, anxiety, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal problems, or alcohol dependence of workers affecting their satisfaction, work efficiency and productivity. It was hypothetically assumed that exposure to green spaces can reduce stress levels leading to workplace satisfaction due to the restorative effects of Nature. The literature establishes with a strong base of evidence that a regular touch with Nature is required to reduce workplace stress while maintaining a balanced mental health. Exposure to Nature as a strategy to reduce stress levels at the workplace was tested by this preliminary field investigation with reference to three software companies in Sri Lanka. The cases (C1, C2, C3) were selected based on the existing levels of greenery; C1, C2, and C3 with high density, moderate density, and low density of greenery, respectively. An online questionnaire survey was adopted with three volunteer groups of employees (n = 60, 20 per case) to test the level of Nature-contact, perceived stress, and satisfaction of employees.