Whatever your physical capabilities, you can improve your health. Beginning Monday, August 7 at 4 p.m. and continuing each Monday, The Meeting Place Senior Center in Columbus will offer a fitness program for optimal health of mind and body designed for all ages and abilities.

The program, Ageless Grace, is a cutting-edge brain fitness program based on neuroplasticity that activates all five functions of the brain – analytical, strategic, kinesthetic learning, memory/recall, creativity and imagination – while simultaneously addressing all 21 physical skills needed for lifelong optimal function. Created by Denise Medved, the program consists of 21 simple exercise tools. These exercises, based on everyday movements that are natural and organic, focus on the healthy longevity of body and mind.

The 21 tools have creative, imaginative names and are simple to do at home. Each tool or exercise emphasizes a different “anti-aging” technique such as joint mobility, right—left brain coordination, or development of new neural pathways. They include right and left-brain activities and numbered sequences of movements that play games with the mind. There are also mind – body directions that allow the brain to consciously choose and direct the movement of the body in either a random or specific sequence.  The movements are designed to be performed seated in a chair, yet they can be done on a bed, standing near or behind a chair, down on the floor or standing. Almost anyone can do them, regardless of most physical conditions.

The easy-to-learn tools promote the “Three Rs” of lifelong comfort and ease – the ability to respond, react, and recover efficiently and safely. The exercises are used to stimulate and release endorphins and engage the nervous system. According to Medved, intentionally nourishing the mind-body connection on a daily basis can help improve health and well-being, reduce stress, keep the brain agile, and the body responsive. Ageless Grace is designed to create a balance of mind, body, spirit, and emotions so that health and well-being follow.

Donna Carson, a certified Ageless Grace educator, will conduct the class. Carson is site supervisor for the Saluda Senior Center. She also coordinates activities for The Meeting Place and coordinates the Medicare Senior Health Insurance Information Program for Polk County.

There is no fee for the course. For more information, call The Meeting Place at 894-0001.

– article submitted by Pam Doty