In Bloomington, meeting and event attendees can enjoy quality wellness and health amenities without having to venture too far from the venue.
Wellness and mindfulness are on the rise in a way that has never been seen before—some experts say that it’s one of the fastest growing health trends in the U.S. According to research, mindfulness is linked to improved health, better performance and reduced stress, all of which dramatically and directly affect employees in the workplace. Employee wellness is also starting to be seen as corporate social responsibility—especially when it comes to mental and emotional health. In fact, in one study by human resources company Mercer, 54 percent of employees said that providing systems to help manage work-life balance is one of the best things organizations can do to help them thrive at work.
Vertical Endeavors (photo credit: Colin O'Connor) For meeting and event planners, this means taking mindfulness and wellness into account not only in the physical workplace but also when brainstorming event and conference itineraries. Even if the meeting schedule doesn’t allow for big group activities revolving around health, creating time, space, and opportunities for attendees to pursue it for themselves throughout the day will help you pull off a balanced event.
Promoting holistic wellbeing at your event can be as easy as starting the day with a mindful meditation or scheduling time throughout the day for short fitness breaks to keep the energy going. Limited phone or screen time, opportunities to decompress off site, and providing healthy food or restaurant options are all good places to start.
For a fun team-building exercise, include a visit to Vertical Endeavors. As Bloomington’s premier indoor rock climbing facility, groups of team members can come in and participate in the facility’s New Heights program, where activities are designed to challenge the group’s resources to arrive at innovative solutions. This is also a great option if your goal is to strengthen relationships or help a new team get to know each other better.
Another option for attendees looking to recharge off site is taking a yoga class at Life Time Fitness at either of Bloomington’s two locations. Options for yoga range from beginner to expert; for less intensity, try the Surrender or Be series. Guests can expect long stretches with Surrender or an emphasis on meditation and breathing with Be. For a more moderate workout, attendees can check out Peloton’s new space in Mall of America® and take a test class on the Peloton Bike or Tread. New at Mall of America, visitors can also sign up for workout classes at Lululemon’s new 19,700-square-foot experiential store, complete with a fitness studio, locker rooms, coffee and dining area, community room, and more.
In nicer weather, attendees can venture into the outdoors. Depending on the time of year, your leisurely walk can showcase Minnesota’s fall colors, a winter wonderland, or beautiful flora and fauna. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is near Mall of America, and at 14,000 acres, there’s plenty of space, trails, wildlife, and beautiful views to help attendees reset and stay grounded before continuing their day. Maps at the visitors center can help them plan out their adventure and, if need be, keep the outing within a set timeframe.
When it comes down to it, it’s all about self-care, and this includes setting your attendees up for a successful event—and work—experience.
