Mynd Wellness heralds a quiet revolution in fitness

Mynd Wellness™, YMCA Victoria’s boutique suite of mindfulness and meditation programs, has celebrated its first anniversary with record attendances.

Created in early 2018, Mynd Wellness™ is available at 13 facilities across Victoria in eight local government areas, and in the 12 months since its launch, more than 8,000 people have participated.

It provides a holistic approach to health and fitness with programs that complement the more traditional offerings available in YMCA Victoria-managed facilities.

Fiona Kriaris, YMCA Victoria Health & Wellness Project Manager and creator of the Mynd Wellness™ suite of programs, said they have been an attractive value-add to current members, but have also attracted a high proportion of casual users.

“The intention behind Mynd Wellness™ was to help us connect with the community. We are seeing people who have never stepped into the facilities before are coming to try one of our mindfulness programs. They are engaging with the programs to enhance their resilience, sense of belonging and happiness,” she said.

Troy Walker, Health & Wellness Product Manager at YMCA Victoria said nearly 13% growth of the global wellness industry in only two years indicated there was strong consumer demand for something other than the staple offering of diet and exercise.

“Consumer response has been overwhelmingly positive to this innovation in our health and wellness offering. In only 12 months, Mynd Wellness™ has progressed from pilot to a permanent program. There is sufficient demand for us to expand, and our plan is to take Mynd Wellness™ Australia-wide.”

Image top: A Full Moon Meditation - part of the Mynd Wellness™ suite - at the Ashburton Pool and Recreation Centre