Wellness Classes & Programs | Winter 2026
Information: Sharon O’Brien, 860-231-6333, sobrien@mandelljcc.org
To register, call Member Services at 860-236-4571
Intervention Programs
BrainSavers – Because Gray Matters!
BrainSavers is an evidence-based program and focuses on the brain and body to help create a lifestyle that can stave off Alzheimer’s and dementia. Includes six lifestyle components: physical fitness, cognitive fitness, stress management, healthful nutrition, quality sleep, and social engagement.
Tue. Jan 6-Mar 24, 1:00pm | Mandell JCC
Thu. Jan 8-Mar 26, 11:00am | JCC at Saint Francis
$150 Community Members/Free for JCC Members
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s
Specifically designed to address the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, such as small movements, imbalance, stiffness, flexed posture and respiratory weakness, our scientifically based curriculum can allow you to take control, build confidence, and feel stronger. No experience necessary for this non-contact exercise. All levels welcome and an assessment is provided prior to beginning.
8-Week sessions begin the week of January 5 and March 2
Mon & Wed 11:00-11:45am; Fri, 11:15am-12:00pm
COST FOR 8-WEEK CYCLE:
1 day $160/$120 JCC Members
2 days $320/$240 JCC Members
3 days $450/$330 JCC Members
Scholarships available if needed
Mindfulness For Stress Reduction
Instructor: Jeryl Brown, LCSW
Learn a different successful approach to dealing with stress, chronic pain, illness, and difficult life challenges. This 6-week class combines a variety of meditation techniques with gentle, mindful stretching and movement.
Thur | 6:30-8:30pm | Jan 29-Mar 5
$295/$260 JCC Member
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Individual Classes
SAVE THE DATE!
Fit Fest 2026
Sunday, February 15
Get ready for a high energy event for all ages with fitness challenges, health information, assessments, healthy snacks and more! Watch for details.
Warm Your Heart and Soul – Kindness Project
Studies show that acts of kindness improve both the giver's and receiver's happiness and well-being. Kindness is also linked to improved physical health, such as lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and potentially a longer lifespan.
Watch for details on our own J Kindness project.
Surgical Spotlight
A Saint Francis Hospital Education Series
Wed. 5:30-6:30pm | Hybrid Classes
Jan 14: Preventing Heart Attacks - What You Need to Know – Jennifer Perri, MD
Feb 18: The Truth About Hernias: Presentation and Screening – Kurt Roberts, MD
Free and open to all
Stress and Your Body
Tue. Jan 20, 5:30-6:30pm
Instructor: Sharon O’Brien
Stress can have a significant impact on your body, causing weight gain, weight loss, skin conditions, digestive distress, and more. Learn techniques to help relieve these effects.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Not Just Cardio – The Best Exercise for Healthy Weight
Wed. Jan 21, 12:00-1:00pm
Instructor: Kim Foster
Regular physical activity provides immediate and long-term health benefits. Learn the best ones to manage your weight effectively.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Menopause, Metabolism, & More –
A Food First Plan for Every
Stage in Life
Thu. Jan 22, 6:00-7:00pm
Instructor: Christine Najjar, MD
Join us for an empowering conversation that introduces a new way of understanding how your body works, and how you can use food to work with it, not against it. Grounded in a metabolic, food-first approach, this talk is designed especially for women navigating menopause and midlife changes, but is equally valuable for women in earlier stages of life who want to take charge of their health before symptoms ever begin.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Journaling in January
Wed. Jan 28, 5:30-6:30pm
Instructor: Leslie Mathews
In the depths of winter, there is spring in the soul, and nature journaling is a refreshing way to begin the year, tap into joy, and start a healthy habit. Learn the practice that author Amy Tan said freed her from can’t, don’t, and won’t.
Cost: $5
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Reiki Level 1 (Shoden)
Fri. Jan 30, 9:00am-4:00pm (Virtual)
Instructor: Gina Ferrara, MA, Reiki Master
Reiki Level 1 is an introductory course that lays the foundation for self-healing and energy work. Upon completion, you will be able to practice self-Reiki and share Reiki with family and friends. Also included a one-hour follow-up session for continued practice Q and A, and integration.
Cost: $200
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Not All Pain is Gain: What Your Body’s Trying to Tell You.
Wed. Feb. 11, 5:30-6:30pm
Instructor: Cody Ibarra, PT, DPT
Pain isn’t just a signal of damage — it’s your body’s alarm system trying to protect you. This session explores the science behind pain and practical ways to quiet it, restore confidence, and move forward.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Intro to Fast Metabolism Diet
Thu. Feb 12, 6:00-7:00pm (Virtual)
Instructor: Karen Boutin
Haylie Pomroy’s book The Fast Metabolism Diet was a #1 NY Times bestseller and has helped many people change their metabolism and get fat burning. Come learn about how it can be used to kick start your fat loss.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Massage Techniques for Couples
Sun. Feb 22, 1:00-3:00pm
Instructors: Julie Olson, LMT &
Barry Wixsom, LMT
Bring your partner and spend time together learning some effective massage techniques to connect with your loved one and help them relax.
Cost: $40/couple
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Caregiver R.E.S.T. (Virtual)
Mon-Thurs, Feb 23-26, 12:00-1:00pm
Instructor: Gina Ferrara, MA
A four-day self-care series designed for caregivers and those navigating chronic stress. One-hour sessions blend meditation, journaling, Reiki, and sound healing to release tension, restore balance, and build resilience. Over the four days, you’ll cultivate calm, clarity, and a renewed sense of inner strength and joy.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Colorectal Cancer Awareness
and Prevention
Tue. Mar 10, 6:00-7:00pm
Instructor: Rachel Scott, MD
Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer. Join Dr. Scott, one of our JCC moms from CRSGH, to learn about colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Balance and Memory Screening
Wed. Mar. 11, 1:00-5:00pm
If you’ve noticed feeling off balance or fearful of falling lately, experiencing forgetfulness, or are simply curious to learn more about your physical and cognitive health, join the University of Hartford Physical and Occupational Therapy Students and faculty.
Free and open to all
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Reiki Level 2 (Okuden)
Fri. Mar 27, 9:00am-5:00pm (Virtual)
Instructor: Gina Ferrara, MA, Reiki Master
Level 2 will profoundly deepen your connection to the energy. You’ll be attuned to several symbols, including the Distant Symbol, which allows Reiki energy to be sent across time and space. This is the practitioner level, preparing you to offer Reiki ethically in private practice or as a complement to your current work.
Cost: $250
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Caregiver R.E.S.T Self Care Session
Tue. Apr 7, 6:30-8:00pm
Instructor: Gina Ferrara (MA, Master of Reiki and Sound Healing)
A self-care session designed for caregivers and anyone under high stress. Through guided meditation, journaling, Reiki, and sound healing, you’ll release tension, restore balance, and reconnect with your inner strength. This supportive experience creates space in your heart for calm, clarity, and renewed joy.
Cost: $25
Register: www.mandelljcc.org/tix
Ongoing Classes
Guided Meditation (Virtual)
Join us virtually any Wednesday and experience Deepak Chopra meditations meant to reduce tension, manage stress, and help you feel more at peace.
Wed | 11:30am | Ongoing
Free and open to all
Cut Out Cancer At The J
Join us for relaxing services designed to support and comfort cancer patients who are undergoing treatment. Experience massage, acupuncture, mini facials, a haircut, style or shave, an art project, and enjoy refreshments while socializing with others in a safe and welcoming place.
3rd Mon of the month, 11:00am-2:00pm | On-going | Lounge and Study Room
Contact Sharon O’Brien to register, sobrien@mandelljcc.org
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