specifically to changing structure organizationally?” She says workplace patterns have shifted significantly. Rather than short periods of intense stress, many employees are now operating in a state of chronic fatigue. “People are just burnt out,” she explains, “they can’t show up anymore. In the clinical world, we say their nervous system is decimated.” That often shows up as brain fog, emotional exhaustion, trouble concentrating and a feeling that even sleep is no longer fully restorative, despite doing all the right things, Buchy says. In many cases, those challenges begin affecting more than just mood or morale. Focus declines, decision-making becomes harder and employees struggle to sustain energy throughout the day. “In high-performing individuals, we can see the pattern of shutting down quietly, struggling under pressure,” she says. “They are overwhelmed all the time and feel that they’re not performing well enough.” Over time, that shift from stress to sustained fatigue is what is pushing organizations to rethink how work is structured to support focus, energy and performance. Designing meetings with wellness in mind This rethinking is increasingly visible in how meetings, retreats and off-site experiences are designed. At The Parkside Hotel & Spa in Victoria, wellness has become part of the meeting design itself rather than something added on afterward. “It’s no longer just about hotel rooms,” says Tauna Eden, director of sales and business development. “Today’s clients are seeking experiences that prioritize wellness, connection and overall well-being.” The hotel recently introduced a Retreat and Wellness Guide that brings together curated experiences and wellness-focused programming tailored specifically for groups and corporate gatherings. That can include guided wellness activities, movement breaks, outdoor experiences and restorative options such as immersive floating sound meditation or more relaxed social activities. “It’s about being intentional with the flow of the day,” Eden explains. “Mixing focused meeting time with short wellness breaks, incorporating movement or outdoor time and using our spaces in a way that naturally boosts energy.” The property’s gathering spaces are also designed to support this shift, with open layouts, natural light and a strong connection to the outdoors helping create a setting that feels noticeably different from a traditional boardroom environment. “It’s a more balanced approach that helps people stay engaged, rather than feeling drained by the end of the day,” says Eden. WHAT THE DATA IS SHOWING • 39% of Canadian employees report feeling burnt out, up from 35% in 2023 • Burnout rates drop from 47% to 27% in workplaces that prioritize prevention • More than half of respondents (52%) say their mental health has affected their job performance to some extent • Only 53% feel comfortable raising concerns related to psychological safety in their workplace Source: Mental Health in the Workplace 2025, Mental Health Research Canada PHOTO: TROUT POINT LODGE 82 | Ignitemag.ca | Summer 2026
