"Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right." - Henry Ford.

This statement rings true across various aspects of life. However, the challenge arises when we fail to fully commit to it. Over the past few decades, I've been involved in providing campuses with products aimed at enhancing the overall wellbeing of students and staff. This journey has seen the evolution from fitness areas tucked behind bleachers to modern multi-story fitness centers featuring elevation-changing running tracks.

Similarly, my exploration of wellness initiatives on campuses had humble beginnings. Despite being recognized as a top priority by many campuses, we are still in the early stages of creating wellness spaces specifically tailored to promote relaxation and recovery.

During a recent visit to a major university, the topic of wellness spaces arose, and I was informed they had such a space. Excitedly, I expressed interest in seeing it. However, my enthusiasm quickly waned upon learning that it was rarely used, and many within the building were unaware of its existence.

This scenario mirrors countless others I've encountered, where spaces designated for meditation or recovery lack key attributes, often ending up as quiet study areas or places for students to catch up on sleep.

I don't intend to disparage the importance of sleep, which is crucial for students and everyone alike to function optimally. However, the issue lies in the school's lack of commitment to making these spaces serve a wider audience rather than just a few. Mere checkbox compliance claiming the presence of such amenities falls short of meeting the campus's true needs.

If you're embarking on creating a wellness space, it's imperative to commit to it fully. Here are some considerations:

• Define the purpose of the space - whether it's for recovery, rest, or overall wellness.
• Assess the size to ensure it accommodates relaxation without disturbances.
• Evaluate airflow to ensure comfort.
• Determine electrical availability and positioning.
• Consider factors like windows, lighting, and visibility.
• Decide on staffing - will there be attendants or is it self-service?
• Determine the format of programs - instructor-led, on-demand videos, or self-guided.
• Decide on pricing - will it be free or paid?
• Develop a robust marketing plan to maximize utilization.

While all these considerations are crucial, marketing stands out as paramount. How you promote the space to the campus community can significantly impact its success.

Merely creating a space does not guarantee success. For instance, if you establish a meditation room, ensure students know about available resources like instructor-led sessions or guided videos. Offering nothing results in reaching only a fraction of your potential audience.

Similarly, for amenities like massage rooms, ensure users understand how to utilize the equipment, whether it's a HydroMassage lounger or a Human Touch chair. Accessibility and availability of attendants to address queries play a vital role in enhancing user experience.

There are numerous factors that can either make or break your wellness space. If you're interested in initiating or expanding your wellness initiatives, Nex Play can provide valuable assistance.