SXSW introduces weekend long "Wellness Expo"

South by Southwest opened its first ever Wellness Expo.

The event included workshops, demos, fitness classes and more.

The Wellness Expo made its big debut over the weekend.

Hundreds of festival attendees interested in the health and wellness industry came out to the Palmer Events Center for the two day event.

Some attendees came for the yoga, while others browsed and shopped. "I primary here to do a yoga class today but I've been checking all the new products," said Reem Haddad.

The event was open to nonbadge-holders who registered for a free sxsw guest pass.

The Wellness Expo had everything from spiritual exploration to mental and physical fitness.

"I take CBD products it helped me with my arthritis it gives me more energy it helps me sleep better at night," said Trish Cooper.

Cooper has lived in Austin for 45 years and said she's been struggling with arthritis and the oil help alleviate the discomfort.

The expo attracted companies from around the United States Including a California based company called HempMeds.

"Being here it's great to see all the different combinations you have well established companies and brands and you have people who are up and coming the feeling of brotherhood and sisterhood around," said Stephen Jones, President of HempMeds.

The expo didn't just simply focus on exercise and clean-eating, it also focused on attracting established local vendors along with starter companies. "Its great exposure for them to reach out to this many people not only to the Austin area but people who come from out of the country," said Hurst.