Senior Center this week: Meditation, healthy brain habits, book group, leather crafting and a movie

Check out what’s happening at the Senior Center this week. Council on Aging programs at the Senior Center are free (unless otherwise noted) but those interested should register in advance by calling 781-314-3499.

Monday, May 18, 1:00 p.m. Mindfulness & resiliency. Jane Barr, MPH, LDN, will lead a conversation about mindfulness and resiliency and how it can benefit and enhance health and emotional wellbeing.  She will discuss how to implement strategies into daily activities and share tools and techniques for you to use to reduce stress in your life. This program is brought to you by MGB Newton Wellesley Hospital’s Community Collaborative Heart Health and Wellness Council.  

Tuesday, May 19 at 11:00 a.m. Non-fiction book discussion on Zoom. “The Zookeeper’s Wife” by Diane Ackerman (2007). The Zabinskis, Polish Christian zookeepers, horrified by Nazi racism, saved more than 300 people. Their story has been forgotten by historians. Hard copies and audiobooks are available at the Waltham Public Library. A Zoom link and reminder will be sent to registrants a few days prior to the session. 

Wednesday, May 20, 11:00 a.m. Money-smart scams that target homeowners. Have you been approached by scam artists?  Are you curious about scam-avoidance? Learn how to protect yourself.

Wednesday, May 20, 1:30–3:00 p.m. Leather art of the Silk Road: Zodiac signs. Created and curated by artists specializing in Silk Road art, this workshop invites you to explore the ancient craftsmanship and culture of the Silk Road. Participants will not only learn about the historical background of leather art but will also engage in hands-on experience with traditional techniques. Together, we will combine symbolic blessings of the Lunar Year of the Horse with the ancient Silk Road arts spanning Eurasia to create a unique piece of art work. Materials will be provided.

Thursday, May 21, 1:00 p.m. Building brain-healthy habits. Norma Milligan, senior regional manager from the Alzheimer’s Association, provides practical tips from research, using diet, exercise and cognitive engagement to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.  

Friday, May 22, 10:00 a.m. (with subtitles) and 1:00 p.m. (no subtitles) May movie: The Kings Man: The Golden Circle. $0.50 donation requested. The film follows Eggsy and the surviving Kingsman as they join forces with an American spy organization, The Statesman, to face a charismatic but deadly new villain threatening the world. Packed with slick action, outrageous humor and star-studded cameos, it expands the franchise’s globe-trotting espionage with inventive set pieces. While some critics found it overstuffed and less fresh than its predecessor, it remains an entertaining, stylish ride for action-comedy fans. With Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, Taron Egerton, Halle Barry, Elton John, Channing Tatum and Jeff Bridges. Rated R. 2 hours and 22 minutes.