Following the success of a wellness day in 2017, the City of Burnside in South Australia has expanded the program to become the week-long Well-fest.
In 2017 more than 80 people participated in the program, by attending a seminar, massage or other activity. The program proved its value when one of the sessions prompted a staff member to seek medical attention, which resulted in finding a serious health issue that may have otherwise gone undetected.
In its second year, attendance increased to 90, with most staff attending more than one activity. The overall feedback was positive and people look forward to the event annually.
This year the event was expanded to ‘Well-fest’, held over the course of a week. A wider range of activities included onsite massage, stress management seminars, kick boxing, flu shots, yoga, meditation, mental health awareness, nutrition seminars, table tennis, wellness themed goody bags, movement seminars and walking groups.
The most popular activity was the new puppy and kitten cuddle station, which supported local shelter Paws & Claws to promote animal adoption.
It gave staff an opportunity for animal interaction, which is scientifically proven to reduce stress and aid in positive wellbeing and mental health.
