How a holistic approach can boost engagement and focus
Too many meetings set participants up for less than productive outcomes with rote agendas or meandering discussions event though research shows that people are motivated by purpose, which leads to better outcomes for both employees and organizations. On the other hand, workplace stress and burnout can have the opposite effect–leading to decreased performance, higher absenteeism and increased turnover.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes burnout as an occupational phenomenon, highlighting its prevalence and the need for intervention. Studies show that companies investing in employee wellness programs see a reduction in healthcare costs and absenteeism, as well as improvements in employee morale and productivity.
So, how can meeting organizers help combat stress and burnout? And more importantly, how can we structure meetings so that participants feel a sense of purpose and mindfulness? One proven solution is the integration of work and wellness. Incorporating wellness into meetings and events is not just a trend but a crucial strategy to support employees’ mental and physical health, fostering a more engaged and productive workforce.
Read More: Elevating Meetings Through Wellness
Savvy event planners recognize that the integration of wellness and work requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. Subtle, meaningful integrations can make a significant difference without requiring drastic changes or large time commitments.
Here are six tactical strategies to weave wellness seamlessly into your events:
1. Personalize Wellness
- Flexibility and Inclusion: One size does not fit all! Wellness is a deeply personal journey and no two individuals are the same. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, wellness initiatives at meetings should be flexible and inclusive, offering a variety of options that cater to different preferences and needs.
- Autonomy and Choice: Forcing everyone to participate in a 5 a.m. 5K run or a group meditation session can be counterproductive. Instead, creating a menu of wellness activities allows participants to choose what resonates with them, fostering a sense of autonomy and respect for individual needs.
2. Mindful Arrival and Welcome
- Arrival Kits: Provide attendees with welcome kits containing items like stress balls, essential oils or relaxation teas. These small tokens can set a positive tone for the event.
- Quiet Zones and Zen Pods: Allow attendees to rest and recharge. Let’s face it—while invigorating, conferences can also be exhausting. It’s widely recognized that attendees need time and space to decompress to truly soak in all the content coming their way. Zen pods allow a serene place for attendees to relax while Quiet Zones allow attendees to take a minute and focus on pressing matters that may have popped up in their business while they are away. We all need time to unplug and recharge.
3. Healthy Nutrition and Hydration
- Nutritious Catering: Offer a variety of healthy food options, including fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid heavy, processed foods and sugar overload that can lead to energy slumps. Consider making small changes like adding nuts, whole fruits and small vegetable snacks to breaks.
- Hydration Stations: Ensure that water is readily available and encourage attendees to stay hydrated. Consider adding flavored water stations with natural ingredients like cucumber or mint.
4. Flexible Wellness Breaks
- Zenterstitials: Integrate short, mindful moments between speakers during sessions. These can be guided breathing exercises, light stretching or brief meditations. These breaks help attendees recharge and stay focused.
- Walk-and-Talk Sessions: Encourage informal meetings or discussions while walking. This promotes physical activity and can lead to more dynamic and creative conversations.
5. Physical and Mental Activities
- Movement Options: Offer a range of physical activities, from yoga and running groups to dance or simple stretching sessions. Ensure these are optional and held at convenient times.
Read More: The Convergence of the Events and Wellness Industries: Why Event Planners Should Care
- Mental Wellness Workshops: Include workshops on topics like stress management, resilience building and mindfulness techniques. These sessions provide practical tools attendees can use in their daily lives.
- Meditation and Breathing Rooms: Provide designated spaces where attendees can delve deeper into meditation or learn more about breathing techniques. Have these sessions guided to offer an opportunity for participants to learn these techniques and unwind their minds and dissipate stress.
- Outdoor Breakout Sessions: Break away from the typical meeting room setting by taking sessions outdoors. Nature hikes or outdoor brainstorming sessions can foster collaboration, enhance focus and help attendees make real connections. The benefits of being in nature include reduced stress levels, improved mood and increased creativity.
6. Evening Wind-Down
- Relaxation Activities: End the day with activities that promote relaxation, such as a guided visualization, a gratitude exercise or a gentle yoga session.
- Social Connection: Organize informal, low-pressure social events that encourage networking and connection without overwhelming attendees.
These wellness initiatives can provide numerous benefits to your meetings. According to a study by the Global Wellness Institute, companies that prioritize employee wellness report higher levels of employee engagement, improve job performance and lower rates of burnout. Additionally, attendees who feel supported in their well-being are more likely to have a positive perception of the event and the organization hosting it.
Incorporating wellness into meetings is about creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported and empowered to take care of their mental and physical health. By offering a variety of wellness activities and integrating them thoughtfully throughout the event, you can cater to the diverse needs of your attendees and foster a culture of well-being. This approach not only enhances the attendee experience but also contributes to a more productive, engaged attendees. As workplace demands increase, prioritizing wellness in meetings is not just beneficial but essential.
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Charlotte Frederick is a corporate meeting and incentive industry expert with over 25 years of experience. After overcoming personal battles with stress and burnout through mindfulness techniques, she founded Mindful Moments, a woman-led company dedicated to enhancing well-being in the corporate world. Charlotte believes in empowering organizations and individuals with the right tools and strategies. By embracing mindfulness and self-care, individuals can show up as the best versions of themselves in every facet of their lives.
Charlotte’s commitment to sharing her knowledge and helping others is rooted in her own successes and the transformative power of wellness. She is a certified integrative health and mindset coach, a certified meditation teacher, a certified yoga instructor, and a certified positive psychology coach.
