With the second wave of the pandemic, we once again begin to ponder, when will all of this end? Even if it does end, will we be able to ever go back to our regular lives? The uncertainty caused by the pandemic has forced all of us to take a look at our lives and re-examine what we understand as life.

According to a study by Capgemini, work from home is the future of work. The study found that almost three quarters of organisations expect 30 per cent or more of their employees to be working remotely. Additionally, over a quarter of organisations expect 70 per cent of their staff to be working remotely. The study also highlights that six in ten organisations witnessed productivity gains due to remote working. The productivity gains ranged from 13 per cent to 24 per cent. Apart from that, nearly 70 per cent of organisations also consider work-from-home to be a sustainable option post-pandemic.

Until now, most of our choices revolved around our work-life and workplace. Be it our choice of home or choice of vehicle — everything was dictated by our work. But with that out of question, one can now choose to reconsider how we live our lives. Is the constant struggle with traffic and the chaos of the city your choice of life? Hardly ever! We all dream about living a peaceful life surrounded by nature. Gardening to the sound of birds chirping and sipping a hot cuppa tea as we watch the sun set behind the hills. Sounds just about right, doesn't it?

Though it may sound perfect, it is nearly impossible to find such peace in the city. Besides, a life close to nature works wonders for your health. Cities, not so much.

Living in a natural neighbourhood has been undermined for the longest time. Life in the city is so glamorised that we often fail to realise the benefits of being close to nature. However, a peaceful life is an investment into a healthy future that we often overlook.

Here are five benefits of why one must invest in a weekend home off the city limits:

Higher Affordability with Low Home Loan Rates

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), considering the situation in the country and the state of the real-estate sector, significantly cut interest rates over the last year. These interest rates now stand at historic lows of around 6 - 7 per cent in some banks. This decrease in interest rates is an excellent time to apply for a home loan.

Greater Quality of Life:

With the increasing cost of living, and managing between work and personal life we are all missing out on living a quality life. Especially with work-from-home blurring the lines between work and personal life. It is becoming increasingly important to find a mental haven to balance your life. Also, you can have frequent breaks with family get-togethers and friends’ reunions and at the same time, ensure that your work life is not affected.

Digital Detox:

Though our world is now digitally connected and all our work depends on connectivity, it is also imperative to detox digitally. Being close to nature helps us focus more on ourselves, and move away from digital distractions. Finally, leads to a healthy life.

Healthier Air:

With constant exposure to pollutants found in the city, our health deteriorates over time. Harmful pollutants have a direct impact on your lungs, digestive systems, overall body. Irrespective of all the exercises and yoga, it is almost impossible to reverse the effects of these harmful pollutants. However, increased exposure to pollution-free fresh air can help reduce the damage and improve our health over time.

Mental Health:

It is proven that our mind works better when we feel at peace. But that is barely possible at home. In the cramped-up spaces in the city, it is difficult to find a peaceful corner where we can be ourselves. A break from our routine can give us the mental space we need to manage stress better.

If the pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that our health is our final wealth. But our cities are now barely capable of giving us what it needs to be healthy. It is time that we take a step back and invest in a healthy future.

The author is MD and CEO, Nirvana Realty

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed are the author's own, and Outlook Money does not necessarily subscribe to them. Outlook Money shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organisation directly or indirectly.