Bath’s 2,000-year history of wellbeing, from Roman times to the present day, is symbolised by its timeless thermal spa and hot springs. Bath’s archaeology reveals how the Romans understood wellbeing: the hot waters soothed their aches and pains, and the baths also became a place for connecting and socialisation.

At Bath Medical Museum, volunteers leading our weekly wellbeing sessions draw from global practices to foster resilience and happiness. Recognising the significance of social connection, our conference activity offers a glimpse into these sessions.

Utilising accessible materials, we blend traditions: Buddhist gratitude practices, Roman notions of letting go, and Japanese origami symbolism for hope. Through mindfulness and stress reduction, we aim to cultivate inner peace and positivity.

Introduction to Wellbeing

Wellbeing is a complex term that refers to the interdependence and combination of these core elements: physical, spiritual, emotional, mental, social, financial and environmental.

Our focus at Bath Medical Museum is on subjective wellbeing or in broad terms, happiness. We provide a warm, welcoming environment where participants can connect to each other through social interaction, share their ideas, knowledge and skills, as well as learn from each other. We look at perspectives of wellbeing from different cultures in creating self-awareness, mindfulness, and resilience.

All our activities are peer-led. Our participants come from diverse cultural backgrounds. We arrange occasional visits to places that enhance aspects of wellbeing and we encourage our visitors to share their reflections.

We do not offer advice or therapy on wellness.