Written by Sophie Fisher
In recent years, the importance of including wellbeing activities into event agendas has become increasingly clear. Not only do these kind of activities help attendees to relax and recharge, but they can also have a positive impact on productivity and engagement. In this blog, we’ll explore the trends, benefits, and importance of incorporating wellbeing activities into your next event.
One of the biggest trends in the events industry in recent years has been the focus on attendee wellbeing. This trend has been driven by a growing awareness of the importance of self-care, and the impact that stress can have on mental and physical health. In response, event organisers have started to incorporate wellbeing activities into their event schedules, such as yoga classes, mindfulness sessions, and meditation breaks.
The benefits of including these activities are numerous. For starters, they help attendees manage stress and anxiety, which can be particularly beneficial at high-pressure events like conferences or trade shows. Additionally, these activities can help attendees recharge and refocus, which can lead to improved productivity and engagement both with the event content, and generally.
In fact, research has shown that incorporating wellbeing activities into event agendas can have a measurable impact on attendee satisfaction and engagement. One study found that attendees who participated in mindfulness sessions at an event reported higher levels of engagement, satisfaction, and productivity than those who did not participate. These studies conducted by the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR), found that attendees who participated in wellness activities at events reported higher levels of satisfaction and engagement.
Another study, conducted by the Global Wellness Institute, found that the wellness tourism industry is growing rapidly, and that travellers are increasingly seeking out experiences that promote physical and mental wellbeing. This trend has led to a growing demand for wellness-focused events, including at conferences and trade shows.
Overall, there is a growing body of research that supports the importance of incorporating wellness activities into event schedules. By promoting self-care and relaxation, these activities can help attendees feel more engaged, productive, and satisfied with their event experience. Another benefit of incorporating wellbeing activities into event agendas, is that it can help create a more inclusive and welcoming environment. By offering activities that promote relaxation and self-care, organisers can help attendees feel valued and supported, regardless of their backgrounds or levels of experience.
So, how can event organisers incorporate wellbeing activities into their agendas?
There are a few key strategies to keep in mind. First, it’s important to think about the specific needs and preferences of your attendees. Some may prefer more active activities, like yoga or dance classes, while others may prefer more contemplative activities, like meditation or journaling.
Another important consideration is the timing and duration of these activities. Ideally, wellbeing activities should be integrated into the event schedule in a way that feels natural and seamless. For example, you might offer a meditation break in the middle of a long day of conference sessions, or a yoga class in the morning before the start of the day’s events.
Finally, it’s important to communicate the benefits of these activities to your attendees. By emphasising the impact that self-care can have on productivity and engagement, you can help attendees understand the value of taking time for themselves during a busy event.
Overall, incorporating wellbeing activities into event agendas is a trend that’s here to stay. By promoting relaxation, self-care, and inclusivity, these activities can help attendees feel more engaged and productive, while also improving overall satisfaction with the event. Whether you’re planning a conference, trade show, or other type of event, consider incorporating some wellbeing activities into your agenda – your attendees will thank you for it. After all, a healthy mind and body are the ultimate souvenirs we can take away from any event!