Our CREATIVE WELLNESS Program introduces participants to an array of S.A.M. (Sensory Alignment Method) techniques designed to boost energy levels, ease chronic pain, regulate blood pressure, enrich day-to-day life and improve one’s overall sense of well-being. Modules can include:
- Colour Therapy / Adult Colouring Sessions / Art Appreciation
- Sound Therapy / Music Appreciation
- Relaxation & Mindfulness Methods
- Therapeutic Knitting
- ‘Posture Flow’ Chair Movement Techniques
- Sensory Breathing & Meditation Techniques
S.A.M. (Sensory Alignment Method) was developed by Founder Karen Zila Hayes, who is a certified Colour Therapist, Therapeutic Knitting Expert and Relaxation Specialist. Her work has been cited in the international press (New York Times, Toronto Globe and Mail and Jornal Pampulha, Brazil). S.A.M. is a modern wellness system that combines both ancient and contemporary practices. For more on S.A.M., visit www.sensoryalignmentmethod.com.
Colour/Sound Therapies are ancient techniques that have been used for thousands of years to promote health & wellness. The science behind this is based on the fact that all living cells are nourished by light and light is made up of the frequencies of each colour in the spectrum (these same frequencies occur in musical notes). These components are delivered through sensory meditations and adult colouring techniques that participants can learn and continue on their own. An art appreciation component is also built into this class as studies have also shown that an appreciation of culture and the arts can improve health and lower the risk of anxiety / depression.
Mindfulness, the process of ‘bringing one’s attention to experiences occurring in the present moment’, was derived from Buddhist traditions and popularized in the west in the later part of the 20th century. Mindfulness has been proven to improve cognition and enhance both physical and mental health.
Posture~Flow is a delicate practice, perfect for the elderly, that combines light, chair-based movements with active visualizations about our internal energy flow. Posture~Flow is both energizing and relaxing. Similarly, Sensory Breathing & Meditation Techniques also help to balance energy, calm the mind and promote restful sleep.
Knitting has been around for centuries but not until recently has it been proven to have incredible health benefits such as blood pressure regulation, stress-relief and improved memory. Like any physical activity, proper technique must be employed but unfortunately, due to the informal way that knitting has been passed down, body posture and technique are rarely addressed. This has resulted in a society of knitters that is 1- rampant with repetitive strain/chronic pain issues (ironic since knitting, when done correctly, can greatly relieve chronic pain) and 2- unable to access the true healing benefits that knitting has to offer. A large number of today’s elderly population once knit but gave it up either because of pain/mobility issues or improper technique that prevented them from experiencing knitting’s true power as a therapeutic act. As one of Canada’s leading experts on Therapeutic Knitting, Karen Zila Hayes has developed teaching strategies that instill proper technique or repair flawed technique. She has also created methods that can be used by those with reduced mobility due to arthritis or other conditions.
We are happy to customize the specific curriculum to suit the needs of each residence.