As we age, it may seem more challenging to do things that support our creativity. My Mom found this program for those 55 and better, and she has really been enjoying it. Mather offers classes on Zoom and in person to craft a community and build connections.

On the days I drive her to class, they invite me to participate. We recently went to two amazing workshops at Chicago’s National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen. One was the creation of fabric art and the other was a poetry writing class. The teachers are really amazing and gently keep us all on task. The tour guides are wonderful, and the guests and artists we learn about have been incredibly inspiring. What’s also inspiring is the other attendees. When we share at the end of class it shows how many truly brilliant people there are out there.

If you are visiting with friends and family for the holidays, ask if they know about the Mather Programs. The classes are free and materials are included for all in-person programs and all online participants who reside in Illinois. It’s a way to help us keep that spark of vitality and age well.

Art is healing… and I believe creativity is key to deterring things like dementia and degenerative illness.

Here is a little from Mather’s website about the classes:

Looking for ways to connect, have fun, and try new things from the comfort of your home? Check out a wide range of complimentary discussions, hands-on art projects, guided wellness classes, and more. One thing these offerings have in common: they provide endless opportunities to explore.

We are proud to offer an environment at Mather for adults 55 and better to find opportunities and resources to age well wherever they live. Our thoughtfully designed initiatives help spark creativity and curiosity, prompt meaningful connections and conversations, and, most importantly, foster a powerful sense of community with ever-changing options that can be accessed in communities across the country. Every Mather program is complimentary, easy to join, and provides helpful instructions and resources; the only decision left is when to start.

Download our latest calendar of free programs.

MAKE CONNECTIONS IN PERSON

Great creative and Age Well together in your neighborhood! Join us for a variety of in-person programs across Chicagoland, and make lasting connections. All those 55 and better are welcome, and all programs are free of charge.

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JOIN OUR AT-HOME ARTISTS GROUP

Sign up for a complimentary Do-It-Together (D.I.T.) Art Kit and receive materials and step-by-step instructions to create six unique fiber arts projects, delivered to your door. Plus, join weekly online meetups!

Available to Illinois residents 50 and better.

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A VARIETY OF ONLINE PROGRAMS

Mindfulness meditation. Art discussions. Brain health. Log into one of our signature virtual programs and discover personal growth and mastery, meaningful impact, and connections among participants.

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Mindfulness and Brain Health

Learn how to boost your brain health, try yoga, or become more mindful in your daily life. Follow the link below for details and a selection of upcoming dates.

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Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can have medicinal, relaxing, and rejuvenating effects. Choose from a variety of programs discussing essential oils, flowers, and herbs and their medicinal and health benefits. Necessary materials will be sent ahead of time at no charge.

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Discussion Groups

Join us to learn about and discuss topics from forgotten women of history to the surprising stories of famous artists and artworks!

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Movement and Dance

Let’s focus on the physical—our breath, bodies, and balance. Guided sessions offer a chance to stretch, exercise, and even dance!

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I’ve worked with Christine in many facets over the years and I’m excited to welcome her to the Wabi Sabi Wellness Resource page. She has helped me to heal and grow into the person I am today, and she spearheaded our Moon Meditation group during the pandemic, when a conscious time for calm was needed. Read a little bit of her story below.

I have worked as a therapist for over 20 years and my approach has been influenced by my experience with and study of trauma and it’s after effects. I believe that most symptoms people experience can be traced back to a traumatic event.

Anxiety, depression, addictions including eating disorders, phobias, insomnia, anger issues, and social problems are often the result of trauma.

My focus is not to identify experiences as traumas but to provide treatment that helps the specific ways that these significant life events affect the mind and body.

I focus on developing a caring and collaborative relationship with my clients and on creating a safe space for them for their work in therapy.

I utilize a variety of traditional therapeutic techniques as well as newer evidence based approaches such as EMDR, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, cognitive, behavioral, and solution oriented solutions and a number of strategies derived from my training as a yoga instructor.

I also offer a form of energy healing, Divine Love Healing. It was developed by Ahlmeirah Ariel Hallaire, a former physician who now resides in France and teaches this and other forms of energy healing. Divine Love Healing removes energetic blocks to healing and facilitates personal growth and transformation over time. I was trained over the course of three years in all levels of Divine Love Healing and additional advanced processes as well.

Email Christine Saindon now for a free 15 minute consultation