Search for calm and connection inspires Birmingham wellbeing festival

More people are turning to spirituality and traditional wellbeing practices as they look for ways to manage stress, find time to relax and connect with others, new research suggests.

The findings come ahead of the Mind Body Spirit Festival, which returns to Birmingham’s NEC from November 13 to 15.

The survey of 611 people found growing interest in practices such as tarot, manifestation, Reiki and astrology, with many respondents saying they wanted more opportunities to explore wellbeing alongside other people.

It also highlighted the pressures of busy lives, with many reporting exhaustion, irritability and a struggle to find uninterrupted time to themselves.

Josh Roberts, managing director of Mind Body Spirit Festival, said: “Spirituality is no longer on the fringes. From podcasts to prime-time television, people are talking openly about the power of the mind, finding deeper meaning and how they want to choose to live.”

The event will feature talks, workshops and activities covering a range of approaches to wellbeing.

Among the guests are Call the Midwife actress Helen George and her friend Yvette Robinson, who host the podcast Mystic Mates. They will appear on the Main Stage on Sunday, November 15.

The programme will also include a Midlife Wisdom Stage, focusing on women's health, menopause and life after 50, with contributions from menopause expert Dr Helen Wall and Chinese medicine specialist Kate Brindle.

Families will be able to visit a new Enchanted Area, curated by author Karen Kay, featuring activities designed to help children explore breathing techniques, storytelling and ways to manage big feelings.

Other speakers include TV therapists Nick and Eva Speakman, Paul McKenna and former X Factor finalist Matreya.

The festival runs from November 13 to 15 at the NEC, with more than 111 free sessions planned, including sound baths and breathwork.

Tickets are available from the Mind Body Spirit Festival website.