ISD 728 Community Education

Current research shows lifestyle and diet have a big effect on HOW the brain ages. Cognitive function, which covers all aspects of perceiving, thinking and reasoning, CAN improve, and the good news is no matter what your age there are things you can begin to do today to improve how quickly and effectively your brain cells communicate with each other. We’ll discuss which ‘superfoods’ reduce the damaging effects of toxins and inflammation on the brain and which nutrients are great for memory, attention, processing information and reducing stress. You’ll learn simple, easy strategies to help your brain stay healthy and alert. Join us for this flexible virtual class—you have two ways to participate. You can participate online from the comfort of home, or you can join the virtual class at the Handke Center. A Community Ed staff member will be on site to set up the equipment and assist you in viewing the virtual instructor along with other in-person participants. When registering, please select either the online from home, or online at the Handke Center to let us know how you'll be attending. If you register with the online from home option, you will receive an email a few days before class with the video conference link and the instructor's handout.

Slow down and connect with nature through the practice of forest bathing. Inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is a slow and mindful practice, connecting with nature through the senses. As a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Mary will offer a series of invitations to explore a deeper connection with nature and with yourself. Research has shown that spending time in nature has many benefits including decreasing stress, lowering blood pressure, and improving mood. Dress comfortably and bring a water bottle. In the event of inclement weather, participants will be notified via text message (opt-in required during account creation). This program is offered in partnership with the City of Rogers Parks & Recreation.

Did you know there is a way to lose weight without diet pills or starvation? Group hypnosis includes suggestions that will help you eat the type and quantity of foods that are beneficial to losing and maintaining your desired weight. Do you have the desire, but not the willpower, to stop smoking? Using guided imagery, people can stop smoking after just one session and often with little, if any, withdrawal symptoms or cravings. Find your way out of the smoky haze! Check in at 5:45pm. At 6:00pm, there will be an introduction for smoking and weight loss classes (all must attend). From 7:00-7:45pm, the weight loss class will meet (stop smoking class will take a break). Smoking hypnosis will be from 7:50-8:45pm. Please bring a blanket and pillow to class. You may sit or lie down for the hypnosis part of the session.

Adults of all ages are welcome to participate in this 2,500-year-old practice that helps us overcome self-dislike and builds proper self-love and self-acceptance. Meditation also helps us act more gently and lovingly toward others and live without fear or hatred. This practice improves good relationships and helps heal problem ones. It also teaches compassion, balance in relationships, and appreciating the good fortune of others. A few days before the class, you will receive an email with the video conference link.

Adults of all ages are welcome to join Mindfulness Meditation - the ancient method of self-understanding and self-management. Meditation is widely used for handling pain and stress, habit control, and dealing with painful emotions and disturbing thoughts. It leads to deep self-knowledge and self-management skills that make life richer. The content of the practice is simply our own experiences of body and mind with no ideology. It is compatible with any religious and self-development practices you do. Please wear loose clothing for comfort. The teaching is cumulative, so attendance at all classes is encouraged. A few days before the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom video conference link.

One of the easiest ways to meditate is by word meditation. It brings the meditation benefits of relaxation and stress reduction, and is used medically for patients who will profit from these benefits. It is easy to learn and easy to do, but there are some important guidelines for proper practice that not everyone knows. This class will teach you how to do it correctly and how your practice develops over time with information acquired from adepts across many centuries. A few days before the class, you will receive an email with the video conference link.