New wellness program coming to Sparta

SPARTA — The Better Health and Wellness Program for the Blind and Visually Impaired will start its program of healing arts on Friday, Jan. 17 at the Sparta Ambulance Building at 14 Sparta Avenue. “The program is targeted to adults who want to stay healthy and active but are understandably hesitant to participate due to their failing vision,” said David Feinhals, executive director of N.J. Foundation for the Bind, the nonprofit organization running the program. “Our instructors are specially trained and experienced in providing the special guidance and sensitivity needed by the participants.”

The program will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Fridays from Jan. 17 to April 11. The day includes group classes in horticultural therapy, healing through drumming and two movement classes, such as yoga.

The Better Health and Wellness program has been running successfully in Bergen, Essex and Morris counties serving adults of all ages.

“Participants report they have made gains in the areas of reduced stress, more energy, better balance, ability to cope with vision loss, increased feelings of well-being and a sense of belonging to a community,” Feinhals said.

Opening Better Health and Wellness for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Sparta is part of the long-range plan of the N.J. Foundation for the Blind to serve people with vision loss in every county in the state.

“The positive response to this program from Sussex County residents tells us we are filling a real need, especially for older adults,” he said.