Full Slate of Possibilities in January at Council On Aging
Natick Council on Aging has a busy January scheduled. Here is a sampling of events.
Still Life Drawing, Fridays Jan. 2 to Feb. 27, 10 a.m., $50.
In this beginners class, students will be introduced to life drawing (drawing from observation of real world objects). Emphasis will be placed on realistic perspective, lighting and composition. The class will include instructor demonstrations of all lessons. Lessons will allow for progression towards more complex compositions. List of supplies given during registration.
Acrylic Painting, Fridays, Jan. 2 to Feb. 27, $65.
Learn about composition, light and shadow, and other key visual concepts while also learning how to mix colors, apply paint to different surfaces, and create texture and depth that will help in creating dynamic and engaging works of art. No experience is necessary. List of supplies given during registration.
Winter Sowing, Tuesday, Jan. 6, 10 a.m., $15.
Learn how to grow plants through the winter by creating a winter sowing jug using a recycled milk jug, potting soil, and seeds. In this hands-on workshop, all supplies are provided, and participants select one seed packet to use. Receive guidance on setting up your jug in a sunny but protected spot and caring for it throughout the season.
Community Reiki Experience, Mondays, Jan. 5, 12, 26 & Feb. 2, 9 and 23, 11 a.m. $10.
Relax into Reiki energy. Sit comfortably in a chair to experience increased mindfulness, a strengthened immune system, and a gentle detoxification process. This class offers a calming, supportive environment to rejuvenate body and mind. Registration required for each class.
Sound of Healing, Tuesday, Jan. 6, 10:15 a.m. Discover the power of sound in a soothing 75-minute session of gentle movement and immersive vibrations. Join Leo Ryan and Nicole Ward for a relaxing practice where participants simply settle in and let sound wash over them. Bring a yoga mat.
Tech Workshop with Natick High’s Robotics Club, Monday, Jan. 5, 3 p.m.
Struggling with a computer or device? Join an in-person technology workshop led by students from the Natick High School Robotics Club. This one-hour session offers simple, helpful guidance for older adults using their own technology. Please bring a device. Space is limited, so pre-registration is required.
Opera and Music Appreciation, Fridays, Jan. 9 to Feb. 27, 10:30 a.m. $65.
Join award-winning artist Ron Williams as he guides participants through symphonies, jazz, and world music. A familiar face to opera and concert audiences across New England, he made his Boston Lyric Opera debut in 1992 after touring opera houses throughout Europe.
Spanish is in the Air, Thursdays, Jan. 8 to Feb. 26, 11:30 a.m., $40.
In this beginner Spanish class, no experience is needed and learning is fun and relaxed. By the end, feel confident making small talk in Spanish, all in a friendly, supportive environment. For the final class, practice these new skills at a local restaurant.
Ukulele Lessons, Fridays, Jan. 9 to Feb. 27, 10 a.m., $57.
This is an intermediate class designed for players who have mastered the basics of ukulele playing. In this class, students will enhance their rhythm skills and learn how to play chord progressions. Students need to bring their own instrument. Class is limited to 10 people.
General Precautions and Emergency Preparedness, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 12:30 p.m.
Join Tanya Quigley-Boylan, Fire Inspector for the Natick Fire Department, for a presentation on general safety and emergency preparedness for seniors. This session will cover essential topics such as when and how to call 911, File of Life information packets, the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home, fire extinguisher usage, and general steps to take in various emergency situations. Deputy Chief Chris Hampton and Louie, the therapy dog. This presentation is designed to provide valuable information to help feel more confident and prepared.
Digital Confidence, Wednesday, Jan. 21, 1 p.m.
This program will help you build confidence using a phone, tablet, or other everyday devices. The program covers essential topics such as staying safe online, understanding apps, taking and organizing photos, and using the device to stay connected with others. The presentation is simple, supportive, and designed to help participants feel more in control, more independent, and more comfortable with everyday technology.
Hearing Screening, Thursday, Jan. 29, 9 a.m.
Audiologists from the Learning Center for the Deaf (TLC) will be offering 15-minute hearing screenings. A hearing screening is a quick test to see how well you hear different sounds. Participants will be presented with various tones and will need to respond when they are heard. More testing may be needed if a hearing loss is identified.
A series of evening class is also offered. These include:
Dance Cardio with Shawn, Wednesday, Jan. 7 to Feb. 25, $70.
Dance to better physical and mental health. Structured dance classes can lead to improvements in areas such as emotional well-being, depression levels, motivation, social cognition and memory. In this 50-minute class, he will teach choreography to songs from all over the world. No class on Feb. 18.
The Joy of Art with Lisa, Wednesday, Jan. 7 to Feb. 25, 4:30 p.m., $40.
Come relax and escape with Lisa and discover the artist within you. This class will allow participants to create fun and easy projects that even a beginner will enjoy. Every week we will have a new piece of art. Most supplies will be provided, but purchase an acrylic paint set, mixing palette and an apron if you choose.
Natick Council on Aging and Human Services is located at 117 East Central St. For more information, call 508-647-6540 or visit https://www.natickma.gov/626/Council-on-Aging-Human-Services
