As we head into the summer months of 2023, it’s important to prioritize our physical and mental health. Fortunately, the Waterloo Region is home to a diverse array of health and wellness events that offer opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with others in the community. Whether you’re looking to try a new fitness class, learn about healthy eating, or explore mindfulness practices, there is something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the top local health and wellness events.
Why is wellness important?
Wellness encompasses every aspect of our lives – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. When we prioritize our well-being, we are able to lead happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. By taking care of ourselves, we are better equipped to deal with the challenges that come our way and to make the most of the opportunities that arise.
There are many benefits to prioritizing our wellness. Physically, we feel better when we eat well, exercise regularly, and take care of our bodies. Mentally, we are more resilient and better able to cope with stress when we prioritize our mental health. Emotionally, we are more connected to ourselves and to others when we take care of our emotional needs. And spiritually, we are able to connect with something greater than ourselves and find meaning and purpose in our lives.
2023 Local Kitchener Waterloo Wellness Events
To help you navigate the summer wellness scene in Waterloo Region, we’ve put together a guide to some of the top events happening in the coming months that you won’t want to miss!
Event: K/W Coffee & Conversation
When: Every Thursday from 11:00am-12:30pm
Where: Café O, 901 Victoria Street (at River Road), Kitchener
Information: Come on out any Thursday weekly to meet Amie, smile, laugh, chat, and enjoy the ambiance of this quaint little coffee shop together.
You are warmly invited into dialogue with others and to discussing different topics each week while exploring some deeper questions along the way.
In this safe, inclusive, casual, and accepting environment, dialogue is encouraged over debate as each person has opportunity to share from their own diverse perspectives and experiences.
Folks in this group enjoy going beyond small talk, reflecting both inward and outward, helping build pathways for more peace and understanding in the world… and your voice matters!
Cost: Free
Event Link: Coffee & Conversation
Event: Victoria Park Kitchener parkrun!
When: Every Saturday at 9:00am
Where: 32 Dill St, Kitchener
Information: A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you!
Cost: Free
Event Link: Victoria Park Kitchener parkrun
Event: Nature Sit Spot in Huron Natural Area
When: June 10 from 9:30am-11:00am
Where: 801 Trillium Dr, Kitchener
Information: This program will begin with a short walk and relaxation techniques to warm up the body and calm the mind before settling into our practice. Join us and discover how being still and observing nature can be a relaxing, rejuvenating and rewarding practice in this experiential program.
Cost: Free
Event Link: Nature Sit Spot in Huron Natural Area
Event: Yoga Hike in Kiwanis Park
When: July 18th and August 22nd from 6:45pm-8:15pm
Where: Kiwanis Park, 1000 Kiwanis Park Dr, Kitchener
Information: Get your vitamin-N (nature) along with your daily exercise on a 90-min yoga hike at Kiwanis Park. During this program we will get to enjoy moments of pause to stretch and enjoy the beauty of the meadows, maples and pines! The walking pace will be moderate with leisurely portions. Yoga postures will be suitable for all skill levels. No yoga mat required, only comfortable footwear.
Cost: Free
Event Link: Yoga Hike in Kiwanis Park
Event: QiGong with Suzy
When: June 6 from 7:00pm-8:00pm
Where: 405B Nyberg Street, Kitchener
Information: Shibashi is a set of 18 moves, simple to learn but extremely effective for improving health. No experience is required. Understand key principles of posture, balance, breathing and movement foundation relevant to the practice of Tai Chi.
Cost: $100 for 6 weeks or $20 drop in
Event Link: QiGong with Suzy
Event: Soul-Full Saturday
When: June 24, July 22, August 26 from 11:30am-7:00pm
Where: 151 Victoria Street North,Kitchener
Information: Lauryn offers her time and energy healing to 5 people who need it as a gift once per month. The hope is that these days raise the vibration of individuals, the community & the planet.
Once the 5 spaces have been filled, you may still take advantage of Soul-full Saturday with a 30 Minute Session for only $25!
Cost: Free for first 5 who sign up, $25 for remaining attendees
Event Link: Soul-Full Saturday
Event: Foundations of Therapeutic Touch
When: Three 9:00am-5:00pm session dates to choose from: June 10-11, July 15-July 16 or August 12-August 13
Where: 2113 25 Side Rd, Moffat, ON
Information: Come and learn Therapeutic Touch!
Do you or someone you know, need relief from chronic pain, stress, anxiety, depression? In The new Foundations of Therapeutic Touch® Workshop, you will learn about this complementary healing modality that works well with standard medical practices. In this course, you will discover the history and scientific research behind this healing method, and through hands-on demonstrations and pre-reading, you will leave with a strong understanding of Therapeutic Touch and how to use it.
This is a 2 day workshop.
Cost: $325
Event Link: Foundations of Therapeutic Touch
Event: Taste of Summertime Salads Cooking Class at Kitchener Market
When: July 21 from 6:00pm-8:00pm
Where: 300 King St E, Kitchener
Information: In this class, we will use local ingredients to make a variety of summertime salads and learn techniques in plating to showcase the colourful ingredients.
You will gain hands on experience before sitting down to enjoy your meal as a group.
Cost: $70 per person
Event Link: Taste of Summertime Salads Cooking Class at Kitchener Market
Wellness Through Therapy
Overall, wellness is important because it allows us to live our lives to the fullest. When we prioritize our well-being, we are better able to enjoy the present moment, build meaningful relationships, and pursue our goals and dreams. By participating in health and wellness events in our community, we can learn new skills, connect with others who share our interests, and find the support we need to be our best selves.
When it comes to wellness, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Some of us may find that taking part in healthy cooking classes or attending community events helps us to feel good, while others may require more specialized care. Seeking therapy is a great way to prioritize your mental health and well-being, and it is an important step towards living a fulfilling life.
At Trillium Counselling, our therapists have helped many people discover how they can live happier, healthier lives. If you’re ready to prioritize your wellbeing with us by your side, please contact us today.