Executive Wellness Retreats: Leading by Example

A showcase for the benefits and importance of having wellness in the workplace and demonstrating how this can translate into work/life balance for all employees.

Executive wellness retreats are a practical, sustainable solution to address health risks, multidimensional wellness and stress levels, as identified during comprehensive health, wellness and stress screenings. The executive group retreats to a venue away from work, for a 2-3 day intensive group and individual coaching session. During this period, follow up sessions in the workplace will be discussed. The content of the retreat is adapted to company specific needs.

The following is an outline to form an idea of the process involved:

·         Comprehensive health screenings and HRA’s can be done at the start of the retreat (or even before), so that each participant has a clear awareness of their current physical and stress status. During this period and throughout the retreat, neck and shoulder massages, reflexology and aromatherapy teaching exercises can be done while participants are waiting their turn at various testing stations.

·         Ice breaking exercises such as goal setting for the group as well as each participating individual: e.g. what you are hoping to accomplish from this retreat? Who is each of the execs, and what is their own unique culture as a team?

·         An energy wellness assessment (based on the link between colour, emotions & energy) that includes personality style, psychological profile, spiritual levels and mental-emotional aspects, is done by each participant to understand the wellness aspects and levels each has to work on, even after the retreat. Another option is the complete Wellness Inventory, an assessment done via Internet log-on (at the retreat venue) that assesses and provides a personal feedback, on 12 aspects of wellness.

·         Each participant will do the HeartMath brain profile assessment to show integration of brain function before and after deep relaxation exercises. An informative 20 minute video clip vividly demonstrates the difference between left and right brain functions based on the personal experiences of a brain scientist. A motivational and deeply inspirational DVD will also be used during the period.

·         Depending on these outcomes, the following activities can be included:

Each executive team member creates a personal wellness mission statement

Ø       From this a group statement and intent will be compiled

Ø       The program consists of a balance between educational and growth activities planned to address all the dimensions of wellness, integrating the body, mind, emotions and spiritual aspects (most executives still see wellness as 'fluff' or just diet and exercise).

Ø       Many practical stress management and stress reduction tools and techniques (e.g. various meditation techniques such as mindfulness, visualisations, guided imagery, one pointed focus, breathing techniques, etc.) are discussed and experienced by each participant as well as the whole group

Ø       Emotional process work forms part of the activities

Ø       Healthy, and delicious food and snacks are served throughout the retreat

Ø       Fun exercises and activities such as Nia technique dance, drumming, yoga, Tai ‘chi can all be incorporated into the experience

Ø       After everyone has a clear understanding of wellness, each participant comes up with good reasons how wellness contributes to bottom line profitability and return on investment for the company

Ø       Spouses can be included (this is recommended)

Ø       A branded workbook/journal, with the book ‘Stress Solutions’ and/or ‘Health & Happiness’, as well as the relaxation CD, form part of the retreat, and will be given to each participant as ongoing learning and motivational material. These will also act as reminders to practice the wellness principles every day, and to take care of themselves to fulfill responsibilities to the company and their families.

Ø       Each participant will also receive a beautiful, informative gift box with an aromatherapy candle, soap, bath oil and hand cream, as well as relaxing herbal tea bags and lavender infused honey, inside.

   Sustained motivation and ongoing support after the retreat:

Ø       Individual and group health coaching sessions form part of the ongoing wellness intervention to assist in long term and sustained, behaviour change and a deepening of self awareness, inner growth, personal branding and optimal vitality.

Ø       Deep relaxation training will form part of the individual coaching sessions

Ø       Questions, stumbling blocks and medical, as well as natural remedies, integrative and life skill training form part of the health coaching process.