If life feels like it’s been lacking a little sparkle lately, you’re not alone. According to the new Global Flourishing Study, Australia ranks 20th out of 23 countries when it comes to overall wellbeing. It’s a sobering reminder that despite our coastal lifestyle, many of us aren’t feeling particularly sunny! However, offering a timely opportunity to beat the grey and gloom is Global Wellness Day, on Saturday, 14 June. And, to alleviate concerns about the cost of living, every single event being hosted by this national initiative is free.
Next weekend, Australians are being encouraged to step away from the stress and into their “well place.” Whatever that means to them! Whether it’s soaking in hot springs, grounding yourself in nature, or simply creating space to breathe, the day is about embracing simple, accessible practices that support a more meaningful life. And, none of them will cost a cent!
“Flourishing isn’t just about income or access. It’s also about connection, support, and meaning,” says Katherine Droga, founder of Well Traveller and the Australian Ambassador for Global Wellness Day.
In a powerful move, Layne Beachley AO – seven-time World Surfing Champion and co-founder of the Awake Academy – will headline one of the flagship events in Sydney: Awaken Well: Small Habits, Big Shifts. Held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, this uplifting session sees Layne joined by positive psychology practitioner Tess Brouwer, sharing practical tools to help people reconnect with themselves.
For Layne, wellness is personal. After retiring from professional surfing, she found herself grappling with identity, burnout and purpose. Through Awake Academy and Well Traveller TV, Layne now inspires others to lean into micro-changes that have a macro impact.
This ethos is reflected in the entire Global Wellness Day lineup. In Sydney alone, you can start your morning with gratitude and gentle movement on the harbour. Wander through a herb garden with skin care expert Cherie Hutchinson (Healing Herbs for Wellbeing). Or, wind down with a Sculpt, Sound and Sip sunset session. Every experience is designed to reconnect body, mind and nature.
Beyond Sydney, there are immersive events across the country. In Byron Bay, guests can sip immunity tea and stroll through lush rainforest on The Wellness Trail at Elements of Byron. In the Adelaide Hills, you can listen to acoustic music surrounded by horses, or explore Jurlique’s biodynamic farm. Down in Margaret River, there’s a three-hour Forest Bathing walk through the towering trees of Boranup Forest. And, on the Mornington Peninsula, you can soak in geothermal pools after a yoga flow at the iconic Hot Springs Amphitheatre.
Even Tassie brings the chill – in the best way. At Wild Wellness Pod Eve in Hobart, participants are invited to breathe, journal, share stories by the fire and, for the brave, plunge into an icy Huon Pine bath under the stars.
For those who prefer a spa-style experience, Jurlique Spas across Australia will open their doors on Global Wellness Day for free arm massages, consultations and misting rituals. This also coincided with celebrations of the brand’s 40 years of slow, sustainable beauty.
It’s all part of a wider mission to remind Australians that wellbeing isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. And, even just one day can be a catalyst for long-term change.
To discover your own ‘well place’, browse events happening near you, or book your free ticket head to welltraveller.com.au.
This story was originally published on The Carousel.
