World Wellness Weekend (W3), a major global wellness event, has reported exponential growth in the past year, with an estimated 70 countries expected to take part in this year's event, compared to only two last year.

Founded by Tip Touch International CEO Jean-Guy de Gabriac, W3 was created to help people to adopt healthier lifestyles, as well as foster positive relationships with their bodies and minds,

Taking place between 22 and 23 September, the weekend of the Autumn Equinox, the second edition of W3 will be celebrated by more than 400 properties, including: Brisas spas, Corinthia, GOCO Hospitality, Kamalaya Koh Samui, Langham Hotels - Chuan Spas, Marriott, Sandals, Shangri-La-Chi Spas.

As part of the celebrations organisers, including spa operators and salon owners, will stage thousands of free events, designed to inspire people to engage in physical activity and try new things. Organisers have been encouraged to be creative and come up with unique activities showcasing their expertise.

The extensive programming on offer includes anti-gravity yoga in Mexico, Taekwondo in Islamabad, Ballroom Waltz in Cairo, painting in the South of France, Reflexology and Wine in Acapulco, Chill at the Icehotel in Sweden, Flow with a Ballet Dancer on the Champs Elysées, Aufguss World Championship in Germany, Sunrise yoga in Malta, Qi Qong at Kamalaya, Goat yoga at Serenbe, Club Mud at Glen Ivy Hot Springs, Gong bath in the UK, and Sunrise Ritual with Pre-Hispanic dancers in Cancun.

"Instead of talking about scary statistics, we focus on bringing more joy to the world," said de Gabriac. "When people smile and have fun, their body chemistry changes and blooms with serotonin and oxytocin. When they experience how good it feels to be well they are likely to become repeaters and adopt fun and healthy choices in their lifestyle."

"Epigenetics clearly show that the way we sleep, eat, move, cope with stress and socially interact over time lengthens our telomeres, giving us the chance to live longer, healthier, and especially, happier lives," he added.