In today’s fast-paced, hybrid world of work, where screens replace sunlight, work desks often become lunch tables, and emails take the place of hallway conversations – it’s all too easy to spend endless hours hunched over a digital device. Endless screentime isn’t just tiring; it zaps energy, dampens motivation, and slows productivity.
That’s why, every Thursday, as a ‘pick-me-up’ before the week’s final stretch, we lace up our running shoes, grab our headphones, and hit the pavement, turning a routine meeting into an energising walking session.
Traditional Scrum vs. OD’s Walking Scrum
Traditionally, in project management and agile methodologies, “walking scrum” refers to a meeting where team members move around a physical project board, discussing progress. But our version is no traditional Scrum.
Instead of standing in front of a wall of sticky notes, we step into nature; where the outside world becomes our boardroom, and the natural landscape our silent collaborator. Lush greenery, the vibrant palette of blooming flowers, and four-legged, tail-wagging companions replace the virtual meeting room, turning work discussions into something far more invigorating.
How We Move: The Walking Scum
Our Walking Scrum is more than just a conversation. We’re not just discussing our ‘Offline’ meeting points; we’re physically walking around our gardens, outside our gates and around our neighbourhoods. Our WhatsApp group becomes a digital gallery, showcasing snapshots of our walking journey: the high-rise mountains, rich textures of different trees, shrubs, plants, delicious homegrown fruits, the radiant hues of the sun, and the occasional loved pet. These fleeting moments capture more than just scenery . . . they capture the essence of movement, connection, and mindfulness.
Science in Stride: The Benefits of Walking
It’s not just about ‘good vibes’ — there’s real science behind it. Walking invigorates the body and sharpens the mind, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which can help improve focus and concentration. In addition, walking helps to reduce stress levels and improve mood, setting the stage for heightened productivity and engagement — a living testament to the synergy between physical movement and mental clarity.
Research shows that employees who move more are often more engaged and have higher job satisfaction. Starting the morning with a surge of natural dopamine, a boost of Vitamin D, and increased oxygen flow, not only clears our minds but leads us to being more productive, and energetic – setting us up for a productive, upbeat finish to the week.
The Omnites Advantage: Fuelling Success
Walking Scrum Thursdays is not just a meeting — it’s a movement. By blending business with a bit of nature and a dash of exercise, we unlock our creativity and productivity. Each step fuels our momentum, helping us tackle the week’s challenges with renewed focus and enthusiasm.
“Break away from the desk— movement is the canvas on which creativity paints its masterpiece” – Unknown.
Author: Tyra-shae Pino
