Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Topsham, ME
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Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education Classes
Tai Chi for Flexibility and Balance II
with Carlos Collado, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This 15 week course is designed to be easy, safe and effective to learn. It enhances the body's energetic system thus practicing the form improves almost all aspects of health. Over 10 scientific studies show it to relieve pain, maintains and improves health and the overall quality of life. Almost anyone of any physical condition can begin and continue to progress regardless of age. Practicing this form will help to improve your balance, flexibility, reduce falls, reduce stress, improve muscular strength, fitness, serenity and enhance your mind-body connection. Prerequisite: Tai Chi for Flexibility and Balance I or experience with the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention series. *No Class: 4/21.
Taiji Qigong Shibashi for Body, Breath and Mind Connection II
with Carlos Collado, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This 15 week is designed to be easy and safe to learn. Taiji Qigong Shibashi is an effective exercise blending the gentle and fluid art of Taiji with the strength of Qigong producing potent health benefits. The wavelike, fluid motions of the form stimulate the flow of qi and blood throughout the entire body. Because of its many health benefits and its efficiency it is a part of the curriculum in most Chinese Medicine Universities throughout China. In this course we will explore how anatomical alignment facilitates deeper breathing and a meditative mindset. Practicing Shibashi will balance your Qi, improving your wellbeing and the quality of your life. Prerequisite: Taiji Qigong Shibashi for Body, Breath and Mind Connection I or previous experience with other Shibashi series. *No Class: 4/21.
Drawing Pet Portraits for Absolute Beginners
with Elizabeth Sokoloff, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Turn a photograph of your pet into a realistic portrait! Learn how to see abstract shapes, understand the value scale, and use a simple gridding approach to create a beautiful portrait of your pet, ready to frame. No drawing experience necessary! All materials included. Instructor will gather pet photos via email.
Gentle Yoga w/ Heather
with Heather Laffely, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This gentle class is for those looking to stretch, connect to the breath and practice traditional yoga postures, at a slow pace. We gently and safely encourage our muscle tissues to deeply lengthen and stretch, increasing range of motion and flexibility. Conscious intention and awareness are given to the breath, strengthening the nervous system and deepening the connection to mind and body. This class is designed for new, as well as, seasoned yogis looking for a mindful, gentle practice.
Advanced Storytelling
with Violet Hart, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This 8-week course will dive deep into more tools, skills, and habits that can help you meet your writing and storytelling goals. The course is best suited for students who have some experience in creative writing, whether on their own or through other educational avenues, but registration is open to all. The course is formatted as a fusion of education and workshop time - students are encouraged to share their own creative work and provide feedback to others. *No Class: 4/21.
American Sign Language (ASL): Level I
with Martin Samelson, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Learn basic sign language communication, including the manual alphabet, fingerspelling, numbers, vocabulary, Deaf culture, and familiar phrases to enhance communication with Deaf and hard of hearing family, friends, co-workers, students, clients, and customers. Previous sign language experience, textbooks, and a dictionary are not required. Your instructor will supply all materials. Martin Samelson has taught ASL to college and high school students in private lessons, corporate programs, and job development with Deaf clients. ASL is a visual language, so no textbook is required. The instructor will supply all materials. Our IN-PERSON instruction will include Deaf culture, hand-shapes for the A-B-Cs and number systems, vocabulary and simple sentence structures. Each class will include time for you to practice and suggestions for at-home practice. We will NOT be using ZOOM for any portion of this class.
*No Class: 4/21 & 4/23.
Spring Scones
with Deb Arter, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Join Debra to try 5 Spring scone varieties. We will make Savory Hotel standard as well as Butterbeer Scones (like Harry Potter!), Pistachio Cranberry, Rosemary Cheddar and Carrot Cake Scones. All ingredients provided. Bring your apron and containers to take home samples! Class size is limited so sign up early! All materials included.
Collagraph Printing for Astronauts
with Ed Higgins, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Explore the world of Collagraph printmaking with instructor Ed Higgins. Collagraph uses simple collage methods and readily available (and often free) materials to create beautiful and striking multicolor prints. Ed’s astronaut series of art courses takes a medium or technique and creates a workshop environment designed to get you experimenting and going boldly where no artist has gone before. Contact the instructor with any questions about tools or materials (ed_higgins@icloud.com). *No Class: 4/22.