It’s well known in the event industry that event wellbeing has taken off in the last decade, more so since our experience of lockdowns and homeworking.
Where the focus used to be wholly on logistics, speakers, and attendee engagement, a greater understanding of holistic health and wellbeing means event planners are under pressure to deliver. So, how do you integrate wellness initiatives into your event agenda?
Whether it’s a corporate conference, a product launch, or a sales meeting, we look at the elements of wellness that can easily be integrated into your event agenda and share examples of what the big brands do well in event wellbeing.
What do brands do well?
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Mindful movement
Introducing yoga or meditation breakout sessions that allow attendees to unwind, destress, and recharge amidst the event’s noise.
Perhaps, a corner of the venue transformed into a peaceful sanctuary where delegates engage in guided meditation or rejuvenating yoga sessions. This approach promotes physical wellbeing, mental clarity and focus.
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Relaxation zones
This is like point one, above, but without the movement! Event organisers create dedicated relaxation zones where attendees can unwind and recharge between sessions. They add comfortable seating, soothing music, aromatherapy, and mindfulness activities.
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Networking opportunities
Why not swap the traditional coffee break with a morning run or evening swim? Encouraging attendees to engage in physical activities encourages networking in a refreshing environment. It’s a chance for participants to bond over shared interests while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Plus, it adds a refreshing twist to the typical conference itinerary. (You’ll need the right venue for this with space in the grounds or nearby – we can help)
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Nutritious food
Healthy eating is integral to overall wellbeing and should extend to event catering. Big big brands offer a diverse array of nutritious food options that cater to different dietary preferences and restrictions. They also incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into the menu to energise and nourish attendees throughout the day.
For more insights on healthy food choices for events, check out our previous blog post.
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Wellness workshops
Event organisers like to host informative sessions on as stress management, mindfulness, nutrition, and fitness topics. They invite knowledgeable speakers or wellness experts to share their insights and practical tips with attendees. These workshops provide valuable takeaways that delegates can integrate into their daily lives, promoting long-term wellbeing beyond the event.
Brands leading by example
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Google
Known for its innovative approach to employee wellbeing, Google often incorporates wellness initiatives into its events and conferences. From yoga and meditation sessions to healthy food options, Google events prioritise the holistic wellbeing of attendees.
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Wellness summits by Mindbody
Mindbody, a technology platform for the wellness industry, hosts wellness summits that feature a blend of educational seminars, fitness classes, and mindfulness activities. These events attract health-conscious individuals looking to explore the latest trends in wellness.
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TED conferences
TED events are renowned for their thought-provoking talks, but they also prioritise attendee wellbeing. TED conferences often feature wellness breaks, meditation sessions, and nutritious catering options to ensure participants feel nourished and rejuvenated throughout the event.
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Wanderlust festivals
Wanderlust festivals are renowned for their unique blend of yoga, music, mindfulness, and outdoor adventure. These multi-day events feature a variety of activities, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, outdoor hikes, live music performances, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Attendees can connect with like-minded individuals while immersing themselves in wellness-focused activities in breathtaking natural settings.
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Lululemon Sweatlife
Lululemon, the athletic clothing brand, hosts Sweatlife Festivals in various cities worldwide. These festivals celebrate all things fitness, wellness, and community. Attendees can participate in multiple activities, including yoga, HIIT workouts, dance classes, mindfulness workshops, and panel discussions featuring influential voices in the wellness industry. The festival also features a marketplace where attendees can discover and shop for wellness products and services.
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South by Southwest
South by Southwest is one of the world’s largest annual conferences and festivals, introduced a Wellness Expo. The expo showcases the latest health, wellness, and technology innovations, featuring exhibitors ranging from fitness brands and wellness start-ups to mindfulness apps and nutrition products. Attendees can explore interactive exhibits, attend educational sessions, and participate in event wellness activities.
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Nike Training Club
Nike’s Training Club events bring together fitness enthusiasts for high-energy workouts led by professional trainers. The events often feature immersive experiences such as outdoor boot camps, stadium workouts, and rooftop yoga sessions. Guests can access new Nike gear and receive personalised coaching to help them achieve their fitness goals. The events build and grow the Nike brand community, while motivating guests to push their limits.
If introducing event wellbeing to your get together will send the right message to your attendees, get in touch with our team.