6 Fresh Takes on Wellness at Meetings

The days of Fun Runs and Fitbit competitions have given way to a new era of wellness at events. Wellness today is less of a competition and more of a state of mind.

These fresh ideas focus on the mind as well as the body, and represent the next level of wellness at meetings.

1. Combine Experiences

Rather than just relieving stress or getting some exercise, wellness can take the form of a holistic learning experience. Instead of just offering forest bathing (where attendees engage with the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest), include a nature photography outing with the opportunity for attendees to take home their matted favorite photo.

2. Set Intention

Rather than just offering a morning yoga class, include time and space for attendees to think about their goals for the day. Have the leader ask them to set their intentions at the start of the day, what they want to accomplish and contribute, and what a successful day looks like to them. This practice elevates exercise to another level and sets the tone for the day.

3. Change Up the Schedule

Many events start with an early morning exercise class, but filling the room can be a struggle when attendees have stayed up late partying the night before. Instead, move the wellness component to the end of the day. Starting activities at 4:30 p.m. still gives attendees time before the evening activities and offers an additional networking and sponsorship opportunity.

4. Rethink Breaks

Schedule breaks in two parts, offering attendees a chance to grab a snack and return an important call but also to return in 15 minutes for a wellness activity. These could range from chair stretches to a singing bowl meditation to a breathwork session.

5. Focus on Self-Actualization

Include other types of wellness beyond the physical — personal, social, environmental, career, and financial — to the event. For example, personal and career coaching sessions offer attendees a chance for introspection and growth. They can sign up for 10-minute appointments during breaks and pre- and post-meeting and continue on their own if they choose to.

6. Introduce Something They’ve Never Done Before

One example is aura reading, which uses a machine that captures the colorful energy field that exists around every person. Practitioners  provide personalized readings of the colors and their meanings, giving attendees a read on their stress, energy level, and mood balance. Another refreshing take on wellness is goat yoga, where participants are surrounded by free-roaming goats, who nuzzle them or even climb on top of them as they do their poses.