In our previous blog, we explored the importance of comfort in events and the need to equip guests with the tools they need to embrace wellness. But what about for those individuals who already have this foundation and are looking for more of a challenge? Lucy Eden, Founder of wellness event specialists Be In Your Element, and Rafael Azzopardi, Head of Events at Regent’s, discuss the importance of pushing attendees out of their comfort zone.
Comfort is in an important part of any event – but it’s not the entire picture when we are talking about wellness in events.
While a recent survey from Regent’s Events found that 58% of attendees priortised comfort at events, it also found 42% seek experiences that push them beyond their comfort zones.
A nearly equal split, highlighting that attendees have very different needs when it comes to wellness in events, as Rafael Azzopardi, Head of Events at Regent’s Events, explains:
“This recent survey, alongside our own research, highlights a growing demand for experience-led activities at events. Wellness is not a one-size-fits-all approach – it’s about how we can blend different needs together to design great events that bring out the best in people.”
The importance of embracing challenge
So why are 42% of attendees looking for a challenge, and what are they getting out of it?
“Whether it is trying something new like a sound bath or even one of the more extreme options we offer, such as Lego Walking, these novel experiences allow individuals to push their boundaries within a safe and supportive environment,” Lucy says.
“The opportunity to test limits in a controlled setting helps participants build confidence and often leads to surprising personal breakthroughs, reinforcing positive self-beliefs and further helping them grow.”
As with comfort, a challenge can be a way to help attendees step away from the busyness of work for a short time, helping to tackle burnout in the process. A recent report from the MHFA found that 63% of UK employees are showing symptoms such as exhaustion and disengagement – up from 51% two years ago. In light of these numbers, it’s imperative that individuals take proactive steps to address burnout wherever possible.
Managing discomfort
Even in a safe and supportive environment, wellness challenges still involve managing a certain level of discomfort.
Lucy says: “The first thing I always like to remind everyone is that with these sorts of experiences, discomfort is natural. If there wasn’t some level of discomfort, the growth we achieve from it wouldn’t be as rewarding and impactful!”
“From there, it’s also about giving them what they need to help manage it. Some may enjoy leaning into the community aspect of challenges, thriving off the enthusiasm and positivity of friends and peers as they overcome the task at hand. Others, however, may take joy in being able to overcome the challenge by themselves.”
Ultimately, individuals experience discomfort differently, which is why overcoming it can take many forms. By creating space for both shared and personal experiences, we ensure that every attendee can engage meaningfully and foster a growth mindset.
Physical reminders
Many interactive wellness activities offer something tangible to take home, such as hand-thrown pottery or a flower arrangement created during a session.
“This can be very powerful,” says Lucy. “It can provide continued reassurance and a positive reminder of what has been achieved. Placed on a work desk or in a kitchen window, these tokens can provide regular recall of happy memories while also reinforcing positive affirmations.”
“Overall, it’s important to remember that people are at different stages on their wellness journey,” explains Rafael. “For those further along, providing opportunities to challenge themselves will help them grow and develop even more as they continue their wellness journey.”
Rafael concludes:
“We have such a variety of people attending our events, many at different stages in their wellness journeys. It’s therefore important to get the right balance of both comfort and challenge, so everyone feels welcome and that their needs are met.”
For more information on wellness in events, view the Regent’s Events wellness packages, offering our unique Wellness DDR that seamlessly combines our award-winning event offerings alongside specially curated wellness experiences.