Hosting a business event by the lake holds promise in many ways. Research shows that water is not just a stunning backdrop – it has a real impact on us. According to scientists, being near a lake lowers cortisol levels and boosts the release of serotonin and oxytocin, which creates a sense of happiness and social connection. All good ingredients for a successful conference.
No matter how carefully an event is planned, certain things remain unpredictable: What mood will the guests or participants be in? How willing are they to connect with others? How open are they to new ideas and content? These aspects are vital for creating a dynamic and engaging event. Organisers and we as hosts have long noticed how the lakeside setting enhances a variety of event formats.
The Effect of Water
But what exactly does water do to us, and how? Studies show that being near water reduces stress and stimulates the release of the very hormones that make us feel happy and connected. Just looking at a body of water can lower blood pressure and heart rate, helping us relax. Water landscapes also help reduce mental fatigue and improve concentration. Marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols describes in his book Blue Mind how water can have a meditative effect on people. This "blue" state of mind encourages creativity, openness and emotional balance.
Field Research on Water
Research into this topic is still ongoing. Colleagues from Convention Partner Vorarlberg joined 13 researchers to explore how the element of water influences events – visually, emotionally, and through scent. The focus is on light, movement and the emotional pull of water as a place of longing. On board were event psychologist Steffen Ronft and spatial psychologist Uwe Linke, who states: “Events are always gatherings of people. The strongest motivation for people is to avoid fear.” Linke’s work explores what kind of environment events need to provide so that people feel comfortable and let go of their anxieties. Water, it seems, plays a key role in this. Our experience tells us: when people, space, technology and the atmosphere of Lake Constance come together in harmony, something truly special can happen – as we regularly witness at Festspielhaus Bregenz.
(Simon Bleil / uk, 13.8.2025)
