Discover the transformative power of hwyl in team development with Call of the Wild. This uniquely Welsh concept of joy, energy, and connection is the key to aligning teams to a shared vision while creating unforgettable moments. At Call of the Wild, we specialise in fostering hwyl through immersive experiences in the stunning landscapes of the Bannau Brycheiniog, helping teams build trust, energise collaboration, and achieve their full potential.
From the adrenaline of outdoor challenges to the quiet satisfaction of shared success, hwyl encapsulates the joy and unity that emerge when teams are fully present in the moment and come together with purpose. It’s the laughter during team exercises, the energy sparked by collective achievement, and the deep connection formed through mutual effort.
What Is Hwyl?
Hwyl (pronounced “hoo-eel”) is joy, spirit, and togetherness all rolled into one. It’s the laughter shared during a group challenge, the adrenaline of achieving a goal together, and the satisfaction of meaningful collaboration. It’s a concept that speaks to the heart of teamwork and leadership development—a reminder that when people are fully present and connected, incredible things happen.
According to Welsh psychologist Awel Vaughan-Evans, hwyl can energise teams by releasing dopamine and creating a lasting sense of euphoria, or it can calm and de-stress, allowing individuals to connect on a deeper level. It’s a versatile state of being that brings out the best in people, making it an essential ingredient for high-performing teams.
Why Hwyl Matters in Leadership and Team Development
Creating hwyl isn’t just about having fun—it’s about aligning teams to a shared vision and fostering collaboration. Here’s how hwyl can transform your organisation:
- Building Trust and Connection: When teams experience moments of hwyl together, they form deeper bonds. Shared joy and achievement lay the foundation for trust, which is essential for effective collaboration.
- Energising and Inspiring Teams: Whether through a challenging outdoor activity or an inspiring workshop, moments of hwyl can reignite passion and motivation. When teams feel energised, they’re more likely to embrace new ideas and overcome obstacles.
- Strengthening Alignment to a Shared Vision: Hwyl brings clarity and focus. Experiencing joy and success as a team reinforces collective goals and helps everyone feel invested in a common purpose.
Creating Hwyl Moments with Call of the Wild
Set in the stunning landscapes of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), our experiential leadership and team development programmes are designed to cultivate hwyl. By immersing participants in activities that challenge, inspire, and connect, we help teams achieve breakthrough moments.
Imagine:
- Working together to navigate an outdoor challenge that tests problem-solving and collaboration.
- Sharing stories and laughter around a campfire after a day of achievement.
- Reflecting on team dynamics while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the natural world.
These shared experiences foster a sense of unity, encouraging participants to bring that energy and alignment back to the workplace.
A First-Hand Account: Exigere’s Journey to Hwyl
David Happell, Partner of Exigere, reflected on their transformative experience with Call of the Wild:
“Planning our trip to the Brecon Beacons was a real pleasure. With the company growing rapidly and the bar set high over the years, there was certainly pressure to deliver! This retreat, however, gave us the perfect opportunity to come together and grow as a team. The beautiful Welsh landscape and the activities we engaged in weren’t just enjoyable—they genuinely brought us closer and deepened our understanding of how we can work even better as a group. From interactive workshops to team challenges in the wild, everything we did centred on building stronger connections. We returned to London feeling refreshed, more connected, and ready to tackle whatever comes next. I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved over the three days and excited to see how we’ll apply what we’ve learned in the future.”
Let Hwyl Drive Your Team’s Success
When teams experience hwyl, they unlock their potential to perform at their best. It’s not just about creating great memories; it’s about building a foundation for long-term success through trust, motivation, and a shared vision.
At Call of the Wild, we’re here to help your team harness the power of hwyl. Our programmes combine outdoor adventure with proven leadership and team development strategies, creating transformative experiences that inspire lasting change.
Are you ready to infuse your team with the spirit of hwyl? Contact Call of the Wild today to start your journey toward stronger, more aligned teams.
Email us: info@callofthewild.co.uk
Call us: 01639 700 388