Public invited to Succulent Night at senior center
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LEWISTOWN -- Keeping happy, healthy and active is vital for people of all ages.
One of the best ways to do that is with plants, said Beth Harlan, community services supervisor for the Mifflin-Juniata Regional Services Corp. -- The Care Network, Yeagertown.
Therapeutic gardening has a host of benefits even if you just have small plants, like succulents, in pots indoors. That's why Harlan organized Succulent Night from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Lewistown Senior Center, 515 Knepp Ave., Lewistown.
"We chose to do this event because it is something different to bring to this area," Harlan said. "Succulents have become pretty popular and are easier to take care of. We just thought it would be a fun evening for all ages to come out to the Lewistown Senior Center and enjoy yourself."
Attendees can choose from three planters and create a terrarium or succulent arrangement. Everything needed for the terrarium will be provided, including planter, variety of succulents, soil, moss, stone and step-by-step instructions provided by Terrarium Therapy.
According to health experts, there are many benefits to growing plants:
Give your mental health a boost as absorbing Vitamin D from sunshine is an instant mood-booster. Regular exposure to sunlight also helps fight off depression, anxiety and cognitive impairment.
Can dramatically reduce the risk of dementia.
Lessens the presence of cortisol, which is the "stress hormone."
Improve your mood by going outside.
Boost your immune system.
Provide an excellent source of exercise.
Add a sense of purpose back to your life.
Growing plants can provide activities for a few hours each day or even something much bigger. There are ways to help keep you active and engaged with it.
Harlan said the event is open to everyone. The cost ranges from $50 to $65, depending on the project you choose. Refreshments are also included. Proceeds from event benefit Centers in Motion.
Juniata County native Kim Bailor will be the instructor. "This is her business, and she grows all the succulents at her greenhouse," Harlan said. "I thought it was nice to have her come back to her hometown area and help support her as well."
Sinister Mini Donuts food wagon will also be in the parking lot at 4 p.m.
For more information, call (717) 320-8367 or find their page on Facebook.