SAACI NEWS
Mindfulness and open spaces in an uncertain world
Mindfulness simply means to live in the ‘present’ in your thoughts, actions and behaviours. Scientific research shows that it’s hugely effective for boosting focus, productivity and connection whilst reducing stress and overwhelming anxiety. By Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI.
W
e are sure that mental well-being and a positive outlook has been challenging for many within the business events industry. While this has been a personal challenge, it is an opportunity for event planners who are able to design and demonstrate how effective the practice of mindfulness may be when applied to work and home situations, as part of their programme offering. It may be a good value-add to get attendees engaged through activities or insights in between the online programme offering. Hybrid events may also benefit from this additional activity on the programme. We are not
proposing the old-school ‘standup and move your arms’ but actual mindful activities by a professional in this area. The best part is that it could all be achieved with bite-sized actions and we could be helping individuals that have been: • Feeling the strain of isolation or working from home. • Finding it challenging to remain focused or productive at work. • Feeling overwhelmed by our current environment. • Wanting to learn how to better communicate and connect to your team or colleagues. • Who’d love to learn the secrets of
‘switching off’ at night and being able to relax, even during busy times. As with mindfulness, open spaces and remote out-of-city boundary venues may also be a key consideration as the industry recovers. The opportunity to conduct business events within proximity of a major city; that is within a 100km radius, will also provide an offering for planners to consider with clients. The additional consideration would be ease of access and connectivity should the client require some attendees to dial into the meeting. These two elements may become common aspects of business events and will enhance the experience for the clients and attendees.
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Business Business Events Events Africa Africa October April 2020 2021 31 Learning | Growth | collaboration
