Go Slow and Free Flow at the World of Wellbeing
Presented by Sound Space Connect® in collaboration with Diverse Minds Events. A calm and inclusive sanctuary within Belfast Mela, designed to help you slow down, reconnect, and simply be. Now in its thirteenth year, this much-loved space has grown into a vibrant yet peaceful hub for rest, reflection, and restoration.Curated since its beginning by sound artist and facilitator Tessa Ann, the World of Wellbeing continues to evolve — and this year’s theme, Go Slow and Free Flow, invites you to soften your pace, honour your rhythm, and reconnect with what feels nourishing. Rooted in sensory awareness, inclusion, and care, this is a space to move gently, listen deeply, and just be — whether you take part in an activity or simply rest within it.
What to Expect
The Sound Escape
Suitable for all ages | Drop in
Step into a gentle, sensory space designed to support calm, connection, and restoration. Rooted in the Sound Space Connect® framework, Sound Escape is a free-flow sonic retreat where therapeutic soundscapes and soothing sensory experiences invite you to relax, reset, and reconnect — at your own pace. Escape the noise of the festival and immerse yourself in a serene environment curated by sound artist and practitioner Tessa Ann. Let the harmonious vibrations of singing bowls, chimes, and gentle instruments guide you towards a place of deep relaxation and inner peace. Whether you're seeking stillness, relief from stress, or simply a quiet moment to breathe, Sound Escape offers a tranquil sanctuary within the heart of the festival. Mats, cushions and chairs are provided.
Magical Sounds
Suitable for families | 2.30pm
Come along and listen to a narrated audio story enriched with soft soundscapes, accompanied by illustrated character visuals, based on Tessa Ann’s Magical Sounds book. A mindful, interactive experience designed for children up to age 7. Stay for some mindful colouring activities to meet the characters! Book available to purchase at a special festival price for family listening at home.
Hula Hooping
Suitable for all ages | 3.00pm - 4.00pm
Hula hooping been proven to reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure and have a positive impact on your mood and overall energy. In this fun workshop you will learn the basics of spinning an adult hoop around your waist and on your hands. We will also explore movement with the hoop and learn a choreographed hoop dance together. Hula Hoops are provided.
Qi Gong
Suitable for adults | 2.00pm - 3.00pm
Qigong ("chee gong") is an ancient system of exercises for the body and mind. Easy and simple to do, it offers benefits for athletes, weekend warriors, couch potatoes and anyone in between. It can improve strength, mobility, brain and mental health, energy and sleep. We will do a simple routine to practice at home or anywhere. No experience necessary. Suitable for adults only.
The Wellbeing Dome
Suitable for teens and adults | Drop in
Free-Flow Rest & Recharge Space. Created in partnership with Diverse Minds Events, this calm, sensory-inclusive dome offers teens and adults a place to pause, rest, and regulate. With soft visuals, seating, and sensory tools, it welcomes all to drop in and simply be.
The Sensory Rainbow Bell Tent
Suitable for families | Drop in
A gentle, colourful space designed for young children and their families. With soft seating, low-stimulation visuals, and sensory-friendly resources, it's the perfect quiet spot for a moment of calm together.
Wellbeing Offerings
Suitable for all ages | Drop in
Explore a variety of holistic wellbeing offerings: massage, meditation, herbal products, and local information. Quiet, calm, and open for browsing at your own pace.
The Ravine: Soothing Sounds Sanctuary.
Suitable for all ages | Drop in
A serene retreat separate from the Rose Garden, tucked into a quiet, natural corner of the festival site. Created by Tessa Ann, this immersive sound installation features ambient audio, flowing water, and plant life — offering a peaceful space to pause and reflect.
About Sound Space Connect®
Founded by sound practitioner and artist Tessa Ann, Sound Space Connect® is a sound-based sensory platform and framework that connects people, places, and spaces through the experience of sound. By creating immersive environments and fostering inclusive practice, it offers a unique way to explore how sound can deepen our relationship with ourselves, with others, and with the spaces we inhabit. Grounded in neuroaffirming and trauma-aware approaches, Sound Space Connect® invites participants to: slow down and tune into their senses; listen deeply — with body, mind, and heart; feel a sense of connection — to place, self, and others
About the Creators - Tessa Ann
Tessa has curated the World of Wellbeing since its beginnings, originally through The Sound Healing Spa. With Sound Space Connect®, she brings a renewed vision grounded in sound, sensory care, and inclusion.
About the Creators - Diverse Minds Events
Specialists in sensory-inclusive events, Diverse Minds supports public spaces to be emotionally safe and accessible — especially for neurodivergent communities and those with sensory sensitivities.
About the Sponsors - Allstate NI
We are thrilled to partner with the Belfast Mela as the World of Wellbeing sponsor for 2025. At Allstate, we believe in the power of inclusivity and the importance of celebrating cultural diversity. The Mela Festival's mission to bring people together through music, dance, art, and wellbeing aligns perfectly with our values. We look forward to contributing to this vibrant event and supporting activities that promote health, mindfulness, and community spirit.
