Wellness Classes & Programs | Spring 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 for seniors that can stave off Alzheimer’s and dementia. This instructor led program encompasses six lifestyle components to prevent Alzheimer’s: physical fitness, cognitive fitness, stress management, healthful nutrition, quality sleep, and social engagement.
Tue | 1:00pm | April 7-June 23 | Main JCC or
Thu | 11:00am | April 9-June 25 | Fitness Center at St. Francis
$150 community members/free for JCC members
Mindfulness for Stress Reduction
Learn a 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.
Instructor – Jeryl Brown, LCSW
Thu | 6:30-8:30pm | April 30-June 11 (No class May 21)
$295/$260 JCC member
Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s
This exercise class is specifically designed to address Parkinson’s symptoms such as slow or small movements, imbalance, stiffness, flexed posture and respiratory weakness. Our scientifically based curriculum can be adapted to any level of Parkinson’s and can allow you to take control, build confidence, and feel stronger.
Mon & Wed 11:00-11:45am; Fri, 11:15am-12:00pm
Scholarships available if needed. Contact Lindsey Brush or Sharon O’Brien at rocksteadyjcc@gmail.com or call 860-231-6333
Individuals Programs
Surgical Spotlight
A Saint Francis Hospital education series empowering patients through knowledge and care.
Wed. 5:30-6:30pm | Hybrid classes
May 20: Preventing the Unexpected: Carotid Disease and Stroke - Kristofer Bagdasarian, MD
May 27: Basics of Surgical Treatment for Breast Cancer - Sasha Douglas, MD
June 10: Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer - Ryan Dorin, MD
August 5: Pelvis Floor Dysfunction - Nani Moss, MD
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
Postural Tune-up
Tue. Apr 14, 5:00pm
Proper posture helps minimize pressure through your joints and reduces the risk of injury during daily activities. University of Hartford students will help you correct bad habits and suggest postures and exercises.
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
Brain Health Symposium: Stronger Minds, Better Lives
Sun. April 26, 12:00-5:00pm
Join leading edge researchers, physicians, and wellness experts for an engaging afternoon exploring the science of brain health and practical ways to support a healthy brain throughout life.
Cost: $36
Brain Health and Sports
Mon. April 27, 6:30-8pm
Sports are one of the most powerful forces in a young person’s life – building focus, teamwork, and brain health. But responsible engagement means understanding the full picture. New research on cumulative head impacts give us the tools to play smarter and stay in the game longer.
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
Somatic Breathwork
Wed. May 20, 6:00–7:30pm
Instructor: Debra Borrero
Step into a space of renewal. This is your invitation to feel grounded, empowered and truly at ease. Experience a transformative journey that uses guided circular breathing and pauses to release stored tension, quiet the mind, and restore your body’s natural state of vitality and peace.
Cost: $48/$45 per class for members
An Introduction to Mindfulness for Parkinson’s Patients
Friday, June 5, 12:00-2:00pm
Instructor: Debra Borrero
Research shows that some Parkinson’s symptoms can improve with mind-body techniques. This class will introduce some mindfulness concepts to you and help you learn some practices that can reduce anxiety and stress, and may also help improve focus and clarity. Both PD patients and family members welcome. A light lunch will be served.
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
Living Parkinson’s Book Event
Sun. June 7, 1:00-2:30pm
Author: Steven Yellen
Living well with Parkinson’s isn’t only possible – it’s within your reach. Living Parkinson’s is a practical guide grounded in solid research and real-life experience, offering clear strategies for living your best life with the disease. It provides a roadmap anyone can use to take control, find purpose and face Parkinson’s head-on. Author Steven Yellen, who is living the Parkinson’s journey himself, joins us to discuss seven core strategies – attitude, knowledge, support, exercise, wellness, advocacy and research – so that you can jumpstart change!
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
Hope in Recovery
Programs made possible through the town of West Hartford Prevention Partnership
Trauma-Informed Yoga
Thu. May 14, 6:00-7:00pm
Instructor Brittany Seltzer, CYT
Join us as we promote healing and resilience through yoga. We will focus on body awareness and mindfulness as we use gentle, accessible poses incorporating breathwork to help regulate emotions and stress. Survivors will engage in the present moment, noticing sensations, and shifting the focus and power from external to internal. All levels welcome to our safe space.
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
Sound Healing for Those in Recovery and their Supporters
Tue. June 2, 5:45-7:00pm
Instructor: Kelvin Young
Join Kelvin Young for a restorative sound healing experience using soothing vibrations to calm the nervous system, release tension, and support reflection and renewal. Open to all, this peaceful session offers a supportive space for grounding, balance, and hope, with a special intention for those in recovery and their supporters.
Free and open to all. Registration Required.
On-going programs
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, April 20 4:00-7:00pm, May 18 and June 15 11:00am-2:00pm | On-going
Contact Sharon O’Brien to register, sobrien@mandelljcc.org or 860-231-6333
Guided Meditation (Virtual)
Join us virtually any Wednesday and experience calming meditations meant to reduce tension, manage stress, and help you feel more at peace.
Wed | 11:30am | Ongoing
Free and open to all
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