Life can often present us with challenging situations and people that can test our ability to remain positive, peaceful and healthy. Our Positive Living classes teach helpful tools for strengthening our minds and spirits, teaching us how to thrive amid the challenges of everyday life. In the process we learn to feel better not only about ourselves, but to also feel better about the very situations and people that once seemed insurmountable.

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• NEW! The Secret to Happiness (Good News – There’s More than One!) – Do people and situations constantly affect your happiness? Does lasting happiness seem just too good to be true? Achieving happiness IS possible, with the right tools and mindset. Learn about the science of happiness, as well as techniques to help you create a happy future for yourself. (1 hour class)
• NEW! The ABCs of ZZZs: How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep – Our bodies and minds need adequate sleep for good physical, mental and emotional health. But falling asleep and staying asleep is hard for many people. Learn the facts about good sleep, techniques for relaxing your mind and body, and how to create an environment that helps you sleep. (1 hour class)
• Aromatherapy for Balanced Health – Essential oils can give us extra energy, calm our minds, help us sleep better, improve our memory, and provide relief from other imbalances. Learn how aromatherapy can help you, sample some essential oils, and make a customized body lotion and/or body scrub to keep. (1 hour class plus $2.50 per lotion or scrub for materials) *Not suitable for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
• Managing Relationship Stress – Our relationships with family, friends, co-workers and acquaintances can be the source of particularly difficult challenges. Learn healthy ways of communicating and managing expectations, to help you get through these situations and improve your relationships. (1 hour class)
• Humor As a Life Plan – Smiling and laughing has scientifically-proven health benefits, including reducing stress and improving stress-related illness. Learn the many ways that you can bring more humor into your life. You’ll also get to try some fun games and groan through a few corny jokes! (1 hour class)
• “Dear Abby” – A group discussion program led by a grief and loss survivor. We will talk about the things that we wish were different in our lives, and offer advice for changing what we can and thriving anyway in spite of what we can’t. All group members will be invited to offer positive advice to each other from their own life experiences. (1 hour class)
• The Power of Intention: Creating a Self-Determined Life – Sometimes we feel like we have fewer options in life, and more limited ability to choose and follow those options. We are also sometimes dependent on others to let us know what our options are, and help us to achieve them. This can lead feeling like we have no control over the content and quality of our own lives. Learn how to determine your options and decide which options you want to follow. We will talk about setting goals, planning steps to achieve the goals, noting obstacles you might face, and planning steps to get past the obstacles. You will leave with a plan you can follow to create a self-determined life that is authentically your own. (1 hour class)
• Making Lemonade From Lemons – This class helps participants learn how to maintain peace and happiness despite the challenges they are facing in their lives such as grief over the death of a loved one, decline in cognition or mobility, increasing health issues, loss of independence, and moving from their home.  They will learn different methods for coping with these issues through positive thinking, empowering speech, and a gratitude-focused approach to life. (1 hour class)
• Introduction to Holistic Health Care – Students will learn about the physical benefits and stress-relieving benefits of yoga, Tai Chi, massage therapy, Reiki energy therapy, and meditation.  We will discuss how these different techniques help to improve breathing, balance, flexibility, and strength; as well as promote relaxation and peacefulness.  We will have a short meditation demonstration at the end of the class. (1 hour class)
• The Amazing Benefits of Gratitude Journaling – Keeping a daily journal of things that you are thankful for is a life-changing experience.  By noticing and focusing on the good things in your life, bad things don;t seem so overwhelming, and you end up with a much happier outlook on life.  Gratitude journaling can help to elevate mood, increase optimism, alleviate depression, and cope with sadness.  Your group will learn how to start a journal, what to include, and all of the ways that gratitude journaling can benefit them.  We will also have a short discussion about Mindfulness Meditation (1 hour class)
• Every Day Stress Relief – This class teaches methods for staying peaceful amid the typical challenges of life.  We will discuss relaxing breathing techniques, an introduction to meditation, methods for being accepting of ourselves and others,  and ways to approach challenging situations in a healthy way.  We will have a short meditation demonstration at the end of class. (1 hour class)
• Meditation Made Easy – Meditation helps to quiet the mind and release us from worry.  For many people, though, the goal of clearing our minds of thoughts seems impossible to attain.  This class teaches easy methods to meditate, and incorporate it into everyday life.  We teach exercises that help the body and mind to become relaxed and centered.  The relaxation and peace of mind students learn in this class will help them gain a more positive outlook on their daily lives.  We will practice different types of meditation throughout the class. (1 hour class)
• Good Health Through Balanced Energy – Students will learn how energy imbalances can affect our physical health, our thinking and our personality.  We will discuss the difference between yin (passive) and yang (active) energy, the concept of chakras (the seven energy centers located within our bodies), methods to balance our own energy, and methods for interacting in a healthy way with other people who have a different type of energy than we do. (1 hour class)
• Create Your Own Good Fortune – We’ll snack on fortune cookies and tea while discussing goals and dreams that we have for our lives. We’ll talk about ways that we can make our fortunes come true, and how we can overcome obstacles that we might face. We’ll write down our fortunes as a way to remember and help manifest our dreams. (1 hour class plus $1 per person for tea and cookies)
• Nature Meditation – Nature meditations help to calm our mind, balance our energy, and lift our mood. From spring through fall we will go outdoors to be in the beauty of nature and learn outdoor meditation practices. Suitable for those of all levels of cognition and mobility. (1 hour class) Please provide staff assistance as required for safety. We also suggest folding chairs for those unable to stand for the one hour class. In case of rain, we can meditate under a porch or portico.

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The benefits of connecting with animals are many. Animals provide steadfast and dependable companionship. They provide us with opportunities to stay in the present moment – feeling a dog lick our hand makes it easy to forget our troubles. The fact that they depend on us for their health and happiness helps us feel loved and needed. And the health benefits of animal relationships are many: decreased blood pressure, better resistance to stress, less asthma and allergies, increased exercise and outdoor activities, more opportunities for socialization, and less likelihood of depression and loneliness. But most of all they provide a beautiful example of unconditional love and acceptance.

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• Blanket Making – We’ll start with pre-cut material and work together to make comfy blankets to donate to a local animal shelter or rescue group, for their animals waiting to be adopted. (1 hour class plus cost of material). We can also schedule a field trip to the shelter so the participants can donate the blankets directly and meet the animals who will be using them (contact us for pricing for this option)
• Pet Treats – We’ll make yummy dog and/or cat treats, and package them with a personal note to donate to a local animal shelter or rescue group, for their animals waiting to be adopted. (1 hour class for dog or cat treats, 90 minute class for both, plus cost of ingredients and packaging) Please provide an oven and clean-up sink.
  
• All About Therapy Dogs – A certified therapy animal and his/her guardian will visit you for an hour of furry love and education. Learn what is involved in therapy animal training, what kind of dog can be a therapy animal, and what rules the animals need to follow while they are working. Everyone is encouraged to pet the animal, but we also respect the wishes of those who prefer not to. (1 hour class)
• Exotic Animal Education – We partner with local wildlife rehab sanctuaries to bring exotic animals, reptiles, and birds to your community. This can include hedgehogs, rabbits, turtles, frogs, snakes, owls, hawks and vultures. We provide information and education about the animals and their habitats, and the group is able to see interesting and unusual animals up close. Touching is not permitted, and we respect the wishes of those who are afraid to see the animals up close. (1 hour class – please contact us for pricing)
• Pony Visits – We bring a pony or a miniature horse to share some cute fun and education. This activity is always a big hit! Everyone is encouraged to pet the animals, but we respect the wishes of those who prefer not to. The animals hooves are wrapped so they don’t damage the floor, and they are trained not to “go” while inside the building. (1 hour class – please contact us for pricing)
• Holiday Activity – Christmas or Hanukkah Pony – A cute pony or horse, decorated for the holidays, will visit for an hour of furry fun and holiday merriment. For Christmas, a singing Santa or elf can accompany the pony, to sing all of your holiday favorites. For Hanukkah, we’ll play the dreidel game for added fun. This is a great multi-generational family or open house event! The pony’s hooves are wrapped so they don’t damage the floor, and they are trained not to “go” while inside the building. (1 hour program – please contact us for pricing)

To view our other holiday programs click here

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Like all forms of art, music moves each of us in distinctly individual ways. Music is an integral accompaniment to all eras of our lives, past and present. Hearing a song from our past carries us back to that place in time, and reminds us of the sentiments and memories that we associate with it. And listening to a new piece of music stimulates our emotions and inspires our opinions in ways that define who we are and what we believe in. Music is therefore not only a critical component of our history, but also has the power to affect and define our present, no matter what our current living situation might be.

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• Music Sing-Alongs – A fun activity for all ages. Our musician plays guitar and sings, while inviting everyone to participate. We also bring small percussion instruments for everyone, to add to the fun! A short discussion of the history behind the songs adds an interesting educational look at songwriting. Create your own theme, choose one of ours, or mix and match! (1 hour program): American Classics, Patriotic, 50s & 60s Rock n Roll, Motown, American Spirituals, Inter-Generational, December Holidays, Valentine’s Day Love Songs
• Music Group Discussion – A musician performs songs, accompanied by guitar, that are specifically chosen to evoke memory, opinion, or emotion. Discussions are held after each song for the group to share the life experiences that the songs remind you of, and to talk about each person’s opinion of the piece.  This gives participants an opportunity not only to share important past experiences, but to also express current viewpoints on several relevant subjects.  (1 hour class)
• Good Vibrations – The Science of Sound – How is sound made? How does it travel through the air? What makes some sounds pleasant and other sounds unpleasant? This interactive class teaches the mechanics of sound vibrations through demonstrations of musical instruments, wind chimes, and our own voices. We will combine science with practical examples, and also have fun singing songs together with a guitar. (1 hour class)
• Musical Autobiographies – This activity starts with a wonderful discussion group where people bring lists of the songs that are meaningful to them, and share the stories and memories that make the songs so special to them.  We then compile the songs and stories into a musical chronology of their life experiences on CD.  The stories and memories are printed on the CD insert to explain the significance of each song.  The CDs make wonderful heirloom gifts for family and friends, and are also excellent topics of discussion where participants learn new things about each other.  (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options)
• Music and Movement – Music and moving either at chair or standing
• Holiday Activity – Holiday Sing-Alongs  – An hour full of memorable songs that are sure to get your group into a festive spirit!  Small percussion instruments are handed out so that everyone can participate.
  • Valentine’s Day Sing-Along  – An hour of well-known songs about love and devotion. Performed with a singer and guitar. Small percussion instruments are handed out so that everyone can participate. (1 hour program)
  • Patriotic Sing-Along – Great for Memorial Day, 4th of July, Flag Day and any other patriotic holiday. All those great American songs that we know and love!
  • December Sing-Along – You may choose either a Christmas performance by a singing elf or a non-denominational holiday performance. This one is sure to get those bells jingling and those toes tapping! (1 hour class)

To view our other holiday programs click here

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We all have stories to tell, just by virtue of just being alive. Every day we have experiences, both large and small, that make us who we are. They test our resolve, they make us see differently, they renew our hope, they make us believe in ourselves and others. These experiences, when accumulated over a lifetime, combine to make each of us into unique individuals with a wealth of valuable lessons and experiences to relay to others. Our professionals can help you record your unique life story, on paper and on video. Computer typing experience is not necessary.

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DISCUSSION GROUP

• “Pieces of My Life” – Participants bring to the group various personal possessions that are important to them (such as heirlooms, artifacts or anything of importance), and explain the stories and significance of each item to the group. This opens the door to conversation, and offers opportunities for the participants to learn new things from each other and get to know each other better. Participants can bring as many things to the discussion group as they would like. (1 hour class)

WRITTEN LEGACIES

• Getting Started With Legacy Writing – Learn how to get started compiling a memoir, ethical will or family tree. Students will learn how to gather information, conduct research, organize information and get it down on paper. They will also learn various publishing and presentation options. Documenting family photos and possessions will also be discussed.  (1 hour class)

Watch our Video about Legacy Writing

• Researching Your Family Tree – Learn how to research and document the various branches of your family tree. Students will learn about the different agencies and websites available for research, and how to organize the information they uncover. We also discuss how to incorporate stories, photos, and documents to help tell the story. And we teach options for publishing a family trees once the research is finished. (1 hour class) Please provide internet access
• Autobiography/Family History/Memoir Class – Many people think about writing a legacy but need help getting going. This class helps you begin writing about the life experiences that you wish to pass on to future generations. It can take the form of your entire life story (an Autobiography), life stories of your family members (a Family History), or selected important personal events you may wish to write about (a Memoir).  We help you with writing and organizing, and teach you guidelines for editing and publishing.  (4 or 8 week class, 2 hours per week.  The 4-week class helps you organize your thoughts and start writing.  The 8-week class helps you get about halfway through your writing.) Please contact us for pricing
• Decidedly Me – Who are you, and why? This workshop will help you explore, define and write down the ethics, values and beliefs that have shaped the person you are, and that act as a compass for your daily thoughts and actions. Through analyzing the lessons you have learned, the things you have accomplished, and the plans you have for your future, we will define and record what “makes you tick”. This is an insightful tool for defining and strengthening the things that are important to you. Your Personal Ethics journal can be kept private, or it can be used as a topic of meaningful discussion with the important people in your life. This class will help you define your thoughts, organize your writing, and will provide guidelines for editing and publishing. (Three options (1) One hour class for general overview (2) 4-week class to help you organize your thoughts and start writing (3) 8-week class to help you get about halfway through your writing.) Please contact us for pricing
• Photo/Possession Documentation – We work with people individually to help them organize their photographs into albums and document the names, dates, and places for each one so that families know who everyone is and where the pictures were taken. We can do the same with important personal possessions, documenting the stories about where they came from, and why they are an important. This information is a very valuable gift to hand down to future generations. Time and cost varies, please contact us for options

For more writing classes please click here to go to our Writing page

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The way we decorate our living spaces expresses who we are and what we like. Our living spaces also act as showcases for the things that are important to us, the people we love, the places we have traveled, and the treasures we have collected. Just as no two people are the same, no two personal spaces are the same. “Personal space” can take on many different forms throughout a lifetime – our childhood bedroom, our first apartment, the house where we raised our children, our retirement home or apartment. Our spaces should continue to be a reflection of who we are, and give us a comfortable place to be ourselves. Any space can feel like home, no matter where that home might be.

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• Interior Decorating Class – An interactive slideshow. Learn decorator’s “tricks of the trade” that you can apply to your own home, no matter how big or small it may be. We will discuss decorating guidelines and tips, how to use color and pattern, low-cost decorating,  re-arranging what you already have, do-it-yourself projects, organization and clutter management, and decorator’s secrets and discounts.  (2 weeks, 90 minutes per week – 3 hours total. Please contact us for pricing) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Quick Tips For Interior Decorating – A shorter, condensed version of the above class, without organization and clutter management tips. (1 hour class) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Interior Decorating Collage Project – A 15-minute slideshow about the principles of interior decorating, plus a “Design Your Dream Home” collage project. (1 hour class plus $2 per person for materials) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Balance and Harmony Through Feng Shui – Feng shui is the ancient Chinese art that helps us to live harmoniously with our environment. Proper placement of furniture and accessories enhances the positive energy in a room, making it “feel” better. Learn how to create balance and harmony in your living space, no matter how large or small it may be, using this ancient decorating technique. Learn how color, shape, and material has an effect on positive energy. We will also discuss the difference between “yin” and “yang” features, and how to balance them to create a pleasing harmony.  (2 weeks, 90 minutes per week – 3 hours total. Please contact us for pricing.) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Introduction to Feng Shui Class – A shorter, condensed version of the above class, consisting of an overview of Feng Shui principles. (1 hour class) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Interior Spruce-Up – Whether you just need to rearrange one room, or you need a whole makeover, we work with you to design whatever improvements are needed.  It can be as simple as a new pair of curtains, or it can be as comprehensive as a makeover. We can help with paint colors, draperies, bedspreads, pillows, rugs, furniture, lighting, mirrors, artwork, photos, and accessories. We can also help reorganize the things you already have to create pleasing arrangements. And we can help with de-cluttering and organizing too! Your involvement in the design process is empowering, and for those living in group communities this can help ease the sadness of living away from home. (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options)
• Relocation Help – Whether you are relocating from your home to an apartment or a group community, we work with you to plan the layout of your new space. We draw the blueprints of your new space and help you decide what to take with you and how to arrange it. We can also help you to rearrange and decorate your current house to give it a better chance of selling. And we can meet the truck on moving day to direct the unloading effort and make sure everything goes where it’s supposed to. Once you are moved in, we can help you with all of the things listed above under “Interior Spruce-Up”. (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options)
• Holiday Activity – Holiday Decorating Help – We can help decorate one room or several using your decorations, or we can purchase decorations for you. We unpack them and put them up, creating beautiful artistic arrangements and displays for you and your guests to enjoy. When the holidays are over, we will help organize and pack them away for next year. (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options)

To view our other holiday programs click here

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Click on the categories below for a full program list