Activities
Arts and Crafts
The name of our centre indicates our belief that being creative frees us from the pressing demands of daily life and allows us to explore colour form shape and our imagination. It also allows us to express how we are feeling in many ways. We have a talented art teacher who encourages and teaches many of our members to produce the most wonderful water colours, line drawings and acrylic art works.
We also have visiting craft tutors who use our art room to create different craft products and explore different media and techniques. The room is available for individuals and groups of members to use to continue their work and to take time out to expand their own skill and allow their creativity and imagination full rein.
Auricular Acupuncture
Acupuncture points on the outer ear are treated by the insertion of fine needles to help relieve some chronic complaints of the body. The outer ear acts as switchboard to other parts of the body, enabling the area with the complaint to be treated. This can help with addiction and relaxation.
Computer Class
We have a well equipped room with internet access where members can use the internet, research information, link with other groups and use the PC’s for presentations, letters etc. It is staffed by an IT tutor at various points in the week, where support and more structured learning is available. It is a valuable asset for those in the Creative Writing groups which meet at times, and for those wanting to create posters and notices
Gardening
The centre is surrounded by a garden which has been designed to provide a range of settings. We have two water features; one set in the midst of a stone circle providing a sunny calm place to relax on warm days. There is also a sensory garden where we have planted sweet smelling herbs, many with healing proprieties. Around the side enthusiastic members have created a small organic vegetable garden which supplements the dinners we provide. We also have fruit trees at the front of the building which had a surprising number of fruit for such young trees this year. There are plants in pots around the centre and the inside has many opportunities for those with green fingers to tend our many indoor plants.
We always need people to help with the vegetable patch, mow the lawn, or plant some seeds. We have tools and a wheel barrow.Relaxation Class
Take a calming, journey into relaxation. We have a group which meets weekly and is taken though a quiet set of visualisations and exercises to calm the mind, recharge our batteries and just take time out to be peaceful. We also have a quiet room which is usually available for people to sit quietly and we have SAD lamps which can be used alongside this to improve the effects of the dark days of winter.
Tai Chi
This is the practice of gentle peaceful movements that aid relaxation and assist the free flow of Qi (Chi) energy through the body also helping to focus the mind. The first, and most familiar, aspect of Tai Chi Chuan is the Hand Form. This is a series of slow movements. It is believed that there are meridians or pathways which travel through the body carrying Qi energy. If there is a problem, or imbalance in the flow of Qi energy, acupoints need to be work to release the flow.
Tai Chi promotes the smooth flow of this energy. By performing the postures of the Form, in co-ordination with relaxed, natural breathing and the application of Yi, which is the intent or focus of the mind, we help to keep the Qi moving smoothly through the channels.
Aside from promoting the flow of Qi energy Tai Chi Chuan can also help to increase flexibility, suppleness and exercise the muscles. The smooth, gentle movements also aid relaxation and help to keep the mind calm and focused. These benefits are extremely useful in today's stressful life. The centre has an instructor who comes to teach this gentle art and there is a small group which practices each week and welcomes newcomers.
Walking Group
Walking is a good way to enjoy fresh air, loosen up stiff joints and get the circulation moving. It is also a good opportunity to get to know fellow members and make new friends.
Volunteers who know the area well organise a weekly walk using local paths, woodland areas and the little streams we have only a short distance from the centre. We can easily access the Irwell Valley and discover historic, natural features and interesting corners of Prestwich and Whitefield.