Wellness festivals have gained popularity in recent years which is, pleasingly, a sign of the times and our steps towards a more conscious, healthy lifestyle. But if you’re yet to discover them, there’s plenty on offer and the latest addition is VERVE, a festival for adults and children in search of healthy hedonism. The Founder of the festival – which is being held in Wiltshire – is Anna Hayward who’s spoken exclusively to Female First on her top reasons to visit a wellness festival this year…
Credit: Jacob Postuma
To Reconnect with Nature
“According to the Global Wellness Forum, prescribing nature is of one of the biggest wellness trends of 2019. At VERVE you can enjoy woodland workouts, farm runs, forest bathing, meditative walks, stargazing and even try your hand at bush craft.”
To Educate and Inspire
“We are all on a journey of self-improvement and whilst self-development books/podcasts are great, nothing rivals listening to an expert speak across a stunning landscape. At VERVE guests can listen to Shahroo Izad (The Kindness Method), Tonia Buxton (Anti-Aging Hacks), Aoife Drury (Sex & Relationships), Alli Godbold (Gut Health), Actress Serena Evans (Confidence Building) and Sky Sport's Tony Wrighton (7 Life Hacks for more Energy).
To Rest and Relax
“In this crazy modern world, we rarely get the chance to relax and enjoy time out. The Zest Spa at VERVE will offer hot stone treatments, facials, sports massage, body brushing and Thai foot massages. Post treatment relaxation will also be available with hammocks to enjoy in a deserted field that offers sweeping views of the hills and downs.”
To Try Something New
“It’s always a good idea to take yourself out of your comfort zone and try something new. I did this by packing up my city job and moving to the country… That’s how VERVE was born! To encourage others to try something new, the festival will offer different workout options which push the boundaries of ‘standard’ exercise. Think Broga, Pilates, Woodland TRX training, farm runs, Yin Yang Yoga and Sound Bathing.”
To Drink like a Local
“The UK is buzzing with some incredible artisan drink producers and VERVE has taken notice of the local leaders. All of the drink suppliers are from Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire and include; Cottonworth Wines Fizz Bar, Craft Cider from Donhead Apple, Chalke Valley Watercress Smoothies (also see ‘Try Something New!’), Sixpenny Beer and Viper Gin.”
To Stargaze
“VERVE is in the AONB (area of outstanding natural beauty), Cranborne Chase which has the darkest skies in the South of England. We regularly see the Milky Way, Orion, The Plough and so many other stars and constellations. Camp or event Glamp when visiting and get a stargazing map so you too can appreciate our amazing skies.”
To Nourish Yourself
“Enjoy a weekend in the countryside where you can reconnect with yourself. Learn, sweat, stretch, dance and have fun. Then get back to work on Monday feeling refreshed, revived, and ready to face the world again.”
