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The Center for Health & Wellbeing proudly hosts educational programs that inspire your healthiest self. Advance registration for all programs is required.
To register, please visit the CHWB calendar at YourHealthandWellbeing.org/events, call 407.644.2492 or stop by the CHWB Welcome Desk.
Wednesday, October 2, 1 – 3 PM
Inspire your creative side! In our monthly Exercise Your Creativity art workshops, you’ll enjoy the opportunity to experiment with a variety of mediums and art styles and see how getting creative can improve your overall wellbeing. This month, we want you to play with clay! Your clay guide for the program is Liz Kitchens, who ran The Jeremiah Project for 18 years, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching children the art of sculpting. She’ll be joined by Ann Goodpasture, and together, these two creative program facilitators will help you discover something that just may be your new favorite hobby!
Wednesday, October 2, 6 – 8 PM
Florida is home to many wild and wonderful places, but that land is quickly disappearing. What can be done to protect it for generations to come? At this month’s IDEAS for Us Hive meeting, Sarah Gledhill, the Executive Director of the Florida Wildlife Federation, will discuss the process of land acquisition, protecting conserved land, and the future of Florida’s natural environment. Join the discussion and strategize ways to strengthen the community in environmental care.
Thursday, October 3, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Celebrate the bounty of the season by learning to make fresh and flavorful salads that feature the nourishing power of fall’s freshest ingredients. Led by Allison Harrell, Registered Dietitian and Culinary Medicine Specialist, this class will guide you through creating wholesome, seasonal dishes, such as Acorn Squash and Kale Salad with Turmeric Dressing, that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Program fee: $35.
Thursdays, October 3, 10, 17, & 24, 1 – 2:30 PM
Are you puzzled by your dreams? With Judy Minear, a projective dream work expert, you’ll unpack the symbolic language of the “theater of the night” over the course of four small group sessions.
Mondays, October 7, 14, 21, & 28, 7 – 8 PM
Join Certified Meditation Instructor Camille Sacco for community + connection, and to learn the basics of meditation and to experience a crystal bowl sound bath. Please note: the first class of each month is free, providing an opportunity for all to experience mindfulness and meditation, but subsequent classes include a $5 program fee.
Tuesdays, October 8, 15, & 22, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Come flourish with us! In this in-depth, three-part series, you will unlock the secrets of creating calligraphy. Under the careful tutelage of calligrapher Jana Ricci, you will learn the basics of pointed pen calligraphy and develop the skills needed to master lower case and capital letters. In no time, you be creating your own cards, gifts and other special projects. Your program fee includes all materials, a practice book, your own pen and ink, and ideas for projects. Program fee for series: $60.
Tuesday, October 8, 2 – 3 PM
Join experienced sound healing practitioner Nicole Elliott, a Yoga Alliance certified meditation guide and Crosby Wellness Center yoga instructor, for a relaxing guided meditation and sound healing experience. Research shows that sound healing therapy can minimize and relieve pain, stimulate the immune system, reduce stress and improve mental and emotional clarity.
In the Kitchen with Katie: Halloween Snacks Kids Can Make
Wednesday, October 9, 4 – 5 PM
Spooky Season is upon us! In this class, appropriate for children 8 and older, cookbook author and elementary school teacher Katie Farmand (and mom of two!) will lead a handson cooking demonstration designed to inspire confidence in young cooks. They will learn to prepare (and sample) recipes like Mummy Pizza and Protein “Spider” Bites. Program fee: $10.
Let’s Talk: A World Mental Health Day Panel
Thursday, October 10, 11 AM - 12:30 PM
The World Health Organization has designated each October 10 as World Mental Health Day, an annual effort to raise mental health awareness and change. This year, the Winter Park Health Foundation invites you to a special panel conversation that will give you the opportunity to hear from mental health leaders from our community. The event, which will be moderated by Shainna Ali, Ph.D., a mental health counselor, educator, and advocate, will provide tips on how to cultivate mental wellness, how to know when to seek help, and information on mental health resources available right here in our community.
Florida’s Fabulous Trees
Thursday, October 10, 11 AM – Noon
Florida has some of the most beautiful trees in the world. From majestic and sprawling live oaks to our various palms to the flowering tabebuia trees that herald in spring each year, there are so many trees to love in the Sunshine State. In this class, led by the gardening experts at Fleet Farming, you’ll dive into all things Florida trees, including planting, maintenance and care of Florida’s native and edible trees.
Tuesday, October 15, 1 – 2 PM
Inflammation is the enemy of both health and longevity. And we must know the enemy to defeat it! In this class, led by certified lifestyle medicine physician Laura Varich, MD, you
will learn where inflammation comes from and how it causes chronic disease, aging, and premature death. Then we will discuss easy to apply lifestyle methods to decrease inflammation in our everyday lives, starting today.
Tuesday, October 15, 6 – 7 PM
Healthy development begins at the start of a child’s life, and the role of parents is enormous to help shape and support healthy and happy children. Led by mental health professionals from the CHILL program in partnership with Orange County Public Schools, this educational seminar will provide the opportunity for parents to learn about the different stages of how children grow and develop throughout the span of childhood. You’ll learn about the importance of downtime and play as a way to enhance creativity, presence, connection, and emotional regulation through these phases.
Wednesday, October 16, 2 – 3 PM
Moringa is one of the hottest new superfoods, but what is it and how can it benefit your health? Melissa Golterman of Momma G Farms will explain the health benefits of moringa and teach you everything you need to know to nurture and harvest your own moringa leaves. In addition to all the tips and tricks you’ll learn, your program fee also includes a moringa seedling to take home with you. Program fee: $5.
Wednesday, October 16, 4 – 5:30 PM
Join creative health practitioner Kaileigh Anne Tayek for a step-by-step art workshop inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s famous series, “Sunflowers.” Whether you’re a novice or a master, this workshop will provide you with the tools needed to create a masterpiece of your own creation in an encouraging atmosphere. No prior art experience necessary! Your $10 program fee includes all supplies needed to create your own take-home work of art.
Thursday, October 17, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Come and discover the world of raw desserts as you learn to make tasty, nutritious sweets. Raw food desserts are healthy, tasty, and free from all the sugar, flour, butter and cream of traditional recipes. You won’t believe raw desserts can be this tasty! Hosted by plant-based, certified ACE health coach Julie Ward, you will learn techniques and tips for introducing raw desserts into your diet. Program fee: $25.
“Empty Plates:” How the Hunger Relief Crisis Impacts Our Community
Thursday, October 17, 6 – 7:30 PM
The history of the global and U.S. national hunger relief movement has never been documented ... until now. In his new book, “Empty Plates: The Evolution of Hunger Relief Until All Are Fed,” former Second Harvest CEO Dave Krepcho draws upon the lessons learned over the course of more than three decades fighting hunger. You’re invited to a special author event, moderated by award-winning broadcaster Amy Sweezey, to celebrate this new book and learn how we can all be a part of the solution.
Monday, October 21, 11 AM – Noon
The popular “Museum of Happiness” Series is back at CHWB, with another fun and engaging workshop to explore ways you can access more joy and satisfaction every day. In this activity-filled workshop, you will learn about all the benefits associated with people who have a clear sense of their purpose for their lives. Get inspired by real-life examples and then learn how to identify and articulate your unique purpose in life.
Arts in Health: Live Performance from Central Florida Vocal Arts
Tuesday, October 22, 6 – 7:30 PM
The Winter Park Health Foundation, AdventHealth and Central Florida Vocal Arts invite you to a unique and special event at the Center for Health & Wellbeing that celebrates the powerful intersection of the Arts in Health. In advance of their upcoming shows at The Plaza Live, you are invited to a special preview of “The Light in the Piazza,” featuring musical performances by CFVA artists. Throughout the performances at CHWB, we will host a panel discussion with experts from the AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute and the artists from CFVA. You will learn about the scientifically proven power of music on the brain and how the arts can nurture and support healing from a variety of injuries and health issues.
Wednesday, October 23, 10 – 11 AM
Time in nature can uplift your mood, boost the immune system, and relieve stress. Join health coach Julie Ward for a special guided Outdoor Meditation and Labyrinth walk in Ward Park, directly adjacent to the CHWB, and soak in all our surrounding nature has to offer.
Thursday, October 24, 6 – 7 PM
There is strong research to show that people who are more self-compassionate have greater health, better relationships and are more resilient to life’s stressors. In this workshop, licensed mental health counselor Jill Hamilton Buss will explore how to focus on increasing self-compassion and decreasing negative self-talk.
Tuesday, October 29, 10 – 11 AM
In this seminar, certified lifestyle medicine physician Laura Varich, MD, will share the latest scientific-backed research into the causes of diabetes and will share actionable tips for living with the disease -- and preventing it in the first place. Learn about specific foods to add to your diet to increase insulin sensitivity and learn to make lifestyle changes that you can start applying to your daily habits today!
Program fee: $10
Tuesday, October 29, 2 – 3 PM
We’re excited to announce the CHWB Book Club is back! For our October Book Club selection, we will be reading and discussing “Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End” by Atul Gawande. Published in 2014 and available in paperback, this bestselling, groundbreaking book changed the way we discuss death and dying. The CHWB Book Club discussions are led by Dr. Annette Kelly, an avid reader and founder and recently retired Board President of Neighbors Network.
Tuesday, October 29, 5 – 7 PM
The Winter Park Health Foundation and the CHILL program, which provides counseling services at Orange County Public Schools, are excited to present Family Fun Night: Fall Fun! We invite you and your family to stop by the Center for Health & Wellbeing in Winter Park for an evening of creative, nurturing, and most of all, fun activities. Light refreshments to be served.
Wednesday, October 30, 1 – 2:30 PM
Essential oils can be a key asset to preventing or lessening the effects of respiratory illnesses during cold and flu season. Under the guidance of Judy Minear, a retired RN who is certified in aromatherapy, you’ll review the best methods to avoid airborne infections and boost your knowledge of safe aromatherapy practices.
Thursday, October 31, 1 – 2:30 PM
Join writing coach Chris Hicks for a spine-chilling afternoon of creativity and story-making! This special writing workshop promises to ignite your imagination and tap into the eerie spirit of the season. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just looking to dip your quill into the world of spooky tales, this workshop offers a thrilling opportunity to craft ghostly stories, mysterious narratives, and chilling character sketches. All levels of writers are welcome!
Tai Chi
Monday, October 14, 3 – 4 PM
Tai Chi has been practiced for centuries to promote overall health, balance and cultivation of the life force called Chi. By learning simple breathing techniques, postures and movements, you can begin your journey towards greater health and vitality. Join Crosby Wellness Center fitness instructor Alan Zemel for this fun and relaxing Tai Chi for Beginners Class, open to Tai Chi participants of all experience levels.
Tuesday, October 22, Noon – 1 PM
In this workshop, led by the Crosby Wellness Center’s KK Swanson, you’ll learn techniques and tools to build stronger bones and muscles to keep yourself healthy and safe. With the support of Swanson, who specializes in strength training and nutrition education, plan to be empowered to strengthen your bones through diet and exercise.
Wednesday, October 30, 6 – 8 PM
In this workshop, we will explore unhelpful cultural messages that serve as barriers to prioritizing your wellbeing. Yoga instructors Katie DeAscanis and Miranda Harris will incorporate meditation, conversation, a lowintensity yoga practice, and self-inquiry to help deconstruct unhelpful messages and create more authentic ways of being. Program fee: $10. Light refreshments provided by Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen.
Thursday, October 31, 3 – 4 PM
This class is all treats and no tricks! Laugh away the spookiest day of the year in Laughter Yoga, a unique and gentle form of exercise that combines breathing techniques from yoga with laughter exercises. Join certified Laughter Yoga teacher Dana Kaplan in this program focused on helping your body create feel-good hormones. And since it’s Halloween, costumes are encouraged but not required. Just make sure you wear something that allows for movement and laughing!
Tuesdays, October 1 & 15, 2 – 3 PM
This class incorporates dance and creative movement to address balance, flexibility, and spatial awareness for people living with Parkinson’s disease. The AdventHealth class is offered twice a month in person. Please join us! Email to register: ORL.Parkinson@adventhealth.com
Thursday, October 3, 2 – 3:30 PM
When it comes to caregiving, knowledge is power. Don’t miss your opportunity to gain insight on topics every caregiver should know. This month’s topic is Changing Moods and Difficult Behaviors: When to Consider Medication. Walk-ins welcome. RSVP by calling (407) 236-9997.
Mondays, 10:30 AM – Noon
Baby Bunch provides a space for moms to connect with other moms postpartum so they can discuss highs and lows of their breastfeeding journey and share any challenges that they are experiencing. This group is for moms with babies aged from newborn to 12 months old.
Wednesday, October 9, 10:30 AM – Noon
Acupuncture is a safe, painless, and effective way to address a wide variety of medical problems, including pain, arthritis, stress, anxiety, digestive issues, and more. Carefully selected acupuncture points promote natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity, physical, and emotional health. Stop by the Healthy Living Experience and learn more about acupuncture from the team at AdventHealth Sports Med & Rehab. No advance registration required.
Tuesday, October 15, 8 AM – 4 PM
Make a difference and donate blood! The AdventHealth Bloodmobile will be parked outside CHWB. All donations help local AdventHealth patients. No appointment necessary.
Thursday, October 17, 3:30 – 4:30 PM
The stroke support group meets once a month to provide support, socialization and education to all stroke survivors, family, and caregivers with guidance from the AdventHealth Winter Park Inpatient Rehab team. RSVP by emailing inpatientrehabcflsupportgroups@adventhealth.com.
Thursday, October 17, 5:30 – 6:15 PM
Bring your friends or come solo and enjoy a 45-minute walk with a doc through beautiful Winter Park. AdventHealth Physicians and health care professionals are on hand to offer support and answer questions you have about your health. It’s a great way to exercise, get connected to reliable health information and meet new friends. Program is hosted rain or shine, no RSVP needed. Walk-ups welcome! Call 407-619-0410 for more information. This program is presented by AdventHealth.
Tuesday, October 22, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Explore how food can act as medicine in helping you live with PCOS and other gynecologic issues that affect women. Your guides through this conversation will be Omar Zwain, MD, a fellowship-trained, board-certified, minimally invasive gynecologic and robotic surgeon who sees patients at CHWB, and Allison Harrell, a Registered Dietitian and Culinary Medicine Expert. Program fee of $35 to attend inperson; webinar free.
Thursday, October 24, 6 – 8 PM
You’ve covered all the basics about caring for baby. Now, learn how to save your baby’s life should she suddenly stop breathing, experience cardiac arrest, or begin choking. This class, led by a certified instructor, will teach you how to handle these emergencies. Register at AdventHealthforWomen.com. Program Fee: $45.
You can now enjoy some of your favorite CHWB programs throughout Central Florida! To underscore its ongoing commitment to the communities of Eatonville, Maitland, and Winter Park, the Winter Park Health Foundation has launched its Wellbeing in the Community initiative. These satellite opportunities are presented with WPHF community partners and are open to the public.
Register for these programs directly with the location organizations:
Osteoporosis Prevention
October 16, 3 – 4 PM
Maitland Public Library
Baby & Me Yoga
October 21, 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Maitland Public Library
Laughter Yoga
October 30, 6 – 7 PM
Maitland Public Library
November 6, 3 - 7 PM
Visit the Center for Health & Wellbeing and shop more than 30 vendors selling the perfect holiday gifts. Shop trees, honey, candles, aromatherapy, self-care items, gift baskets and other items that make for the perfect host gifts and stocking stuffers.
live music from 4 - 6 PM
The first 80 attendees will receive a complimentary candle from Co-Op Vendor, Sunny K Candles!
2005 Mizell Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32792
Recipe by Chef Collette Keller
Serves about 6
2 large onions, sliced
2 tablespoons avocado oil
8 garlic cloves, micro planed
1.5 tablespoon curry powder
2 cans pumpkin puree
5 cups chicken stock
1 can unsweetened coconut milk
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 large sweet potato, medium diced
½ cup peanut butter
½ cup canned plum tomatoes (strained) and quartered
½ cup toasted pumpkin seeds
Check Out One Of Our In-person Cooking Classes!
Step 1: Preheat a medium sized Dutch oven, on medium high heat, once preheated add the avocado oil. Once the avocado oil is in the pot add the onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes, then add the garlic and curry powder. Sauté until the curry becomes very fragrant and becomes slightly darker about 4 minutes.
Step 2: After you cook off the curry powder add the pumpkin puree, sweet potato, plum tomatoes, chicken stock, and cayenne pepper and allow the soup to cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes. Then stir in the peanut butter and coconut milk. Allow the soup to cook for about 10 more minutes.
Step 3: Once soup is done portion soup out and garnish with pumpkin seeds. Enjoy!
This recipe comes from one of our cooking classes in the Center for Health & Wellbeing Nutrition Theatre. The Winter Park Health Foundation offers regular small-group cooking classes perfect for all levels of at-home chefs. We work with a roster of professional chefs to help uncover new skills, discover different flavors and expand your repertoire of healthy cuisine, all in a fun and social environment. Sign up for a future class today!