How the wellness expert implements self-care at home and on the road
Meeting and event professionals spend much of their time creating experiences that prioritize attendees’ well-being, but the demands of planning and executing events can make it challenging for planners to extend the same care to themselves. Long days, frequent travel and high-pressure environments may leave personal wellness as an afterthought.
The first installment of Smart Meetings’ new Planner Pulse Q&A series aims to change that by spotlighting industry professionals who make personal wellness a priority despite demanding schedules. Through their experiences, the series offers readers practical habits, routines and mindset shifts that can help them stay healthy, energized and resilient while doing their best work.
To kick off the series, Smart Meetings spoke with self-care maven Ashley Brooke James, a public speaker and co-founder of the wellness facilitation company TRILUNA, about the habits that fill her cup and provide balance in her life.
What does wellness mean to you?
To me, wellness is community. We are only as well as the communities we build, support and surround ourselves with. True wellness isn’t just physical—it’s feeling connected, supported and able to show up fully for yourself and others.
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Do you have any airport wellness hacks?
I try to be proactive before I ever set foot in the airport. During the week leading up to travel, I prioritize movement, stretching and a good workout to build endurance, because navigating airports is a workout in itself! While traveling, I stretch while waiting to board or during layovers, and I make hydration a non-negotiable.
“We are only as well as the communities we build, support and surround ourselves with.”
Ashley Brooke James
How do you make time for yourself on site?
I intentionally step away from the crowd throughout the day. Even a short walk alone while focusing on my breathing helps me reset. Conferences and events can be incredibly stimulating, and allowing myself to pause helps me return more present and energized.
How do you stay healthy while traveling?
Hydration is my No. 1 priority. I also pay close attention to skincare, because travel can be taxing on my body. A facial hydration mist, rose water spray, under-eye patches and daily movement—even if it’s just stretching—help me feel refreshed and grounded.
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What’s always in your event bag?
A reusable water bottle, facial hydration mist, lotion, noise-canceling earphones, an eye mask, my journal and pen, lip balm and healthy snacks.
What’s your burnout warning sign—and how do you combat it?
One of my biggest burnout warning signs is becoming easily irritated and withdrawing from people—which is a clear signal because I genuinely thrive on community and connection. When I notice that shift, I intentionally schedule “me time.” Whether it’s slowing down, practicing yoga, taking a long walk or simply resting without guilt, I know I have to refill my own cup before I can pour into others.
How do you reset after a long event?
Whenever possible, I protect the day after an event or a trip. I sleep in, stretch, spend time outdoors, unplug and allow myself to recover before jumping into the next project. Rest isn’t a reward—it’s part of the work.
What’s one piece of wellness advice you’d like to share with other event professionals?
Give yourself grace. Your wellness routine on the road doesn’t have to look the same as it does at home. Focus on what you can control—drink water, move your body, stretch for five minutes, take the stairs when you can and don’t underestimate the power of a few deep breaths. Small, consistent choices make the biggest difference over time.
This article appears in the September 2026 issue. You can subscribe to the magazine here.
