Incorporating a health and wellbeing element into your next event can leave delegates not only feeling fabulous but also grateful that you, the host, went that extra mile to make them feel good. In today’s fast-paced work environment, employees are working harder and longer than ever before, leading to increased stress levels. Recent statistics indicate that stress-related issues cost Australian businesses over $11 billion each year. Using a conference or event as a platform to promote self-care is not only beneficial for delegates but also for the overall success of the event.

Conferences and events often involve long days filled with focus and networking. By integrating health and wellbeing strategies, you can support your delegates’ attention, creativity, and productivity. Here are some effective strategies to consider for your next event:

Healthy Nutrition 

Food is one of the most important contributors to personal wellbeing. Offering catering that is rich in nutrients, mindful of varying dietary requirements, and delicious can delight your delegates. Opt for menus full of vegetables and protein instead of sweet or carb-heavy options.

Provide a refreshment hub with fresh fruit, herbal teas, fresh water, and decaf coffee to give attendees a chance to rehydrate without over-caffeinating. Offering virgin cocktails or juices alongside alcohol and soft drinks at social events helps create a healthy and inclusive environment. This trend towards healthier options aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable and health-conscious catering at events.

Healthy Food

Image Credit: GAMES Event 2018

Encourage Movement

Generate renewed focus and fresh ideas by encouraging attendees to move often. Walking between sessions or during breaks can enhance your delegates’ creativity. Encourage delegates to explore the venue grounds during lunch breaks for a change of scenery.

You could offer a short guided stretching routine before sessions commence or direct attendees outside for a game of soccer or a wander around the venue facilities. If budget allows, consider integrating a team-building activity into the conference program. Incorporating physical activities is becoming more popular as it promotes both physical and mental health.

If moving your delegates isn’t suitable within the conference program, why not offer breaks outside? Fresh air, movement, and sunshine can go a long way. Outdoor activities are increasingly being recognised for their benefits in reducing stress and increasing engagement.

Movement

Image Credit: GAMES Event 2018

Massages and Mindfulness 

Arrange for a masseuse to roam the rooms during breaks and provide delegates with hand massages and short shoulder releases.

Mindfulness practices in the workplace are becoming mainstream, with growing evidence that mindfulness reduces stress and improves how employees work together. Offering a 5-minute breathing exercise before a session or facilitated meditation programs can significantly enhance the event experience.

Opening sessions with a short guided meditation or focus session can help delegates set intentions and feel more connected and engaged. It is also an opportunity to introduce external providers to organisations and encourage them to roll out ongoing programs in the workplace. The rise of mindfulness and wellness programs reflects a broader trend towards integrating mental health practices in corporate settings.

Mindfulness

Image Credit: GAMES Event 2018

Bring it all Together

For more ideas on how to coordinate a health and wellness program into your next event, ask your event organiser if they have any local recommendations. Corporate health and wellness packages can include content on everything from travel recovery to food and beverage, mindfulness, and more.

For more information on Nectar Creative Communications and how we can help create your next brilliant event, with a catering menu to match, please contact us on 1300 878 815.