BrainUp! to Host Brain Health Fair

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People of all ages will be invited to celebrate the brain and all of its wonders at a free, day-long BrainFest event from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on March 15, 2014 at the Rachel B. Murrah Civic Center in Winter Park.

Sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association, Central and North Florida Chapter, the event will kick off with keynote speaker Chris Nowinski, a former professional wrestler and author of “Head Games: Football’s Concussion Crisis,” the book that brought public and media attention to the importance of protecting your brain. Afterward, a series of inter-active games and challenges will be available to reinforce the six “brain commandments” – simple rules to help keep your brain active, healthy, and growing strong throughout your life.

BrainFest is part of a comprehensive education and brain training program called Brain Up! designed to promote public understanding of brain health and to encourage people of all ages to commit to a brain-healthy lifestyle. It is supported by a two-year grant provided by the Winter Park Health Foundation (WPHF) through its Older Adults and Children & Youth work groups.

The BrainFest event will be a fun-filled day of educa-tion, entertainment and activities focused on building and maintaining healthy brains.

Here’s just a sampling of what is planned:

• Eat Smart – The right foods will keep your brain running strong.

“Eat This, Not That” presentation by Ariel Cole, MD.

• Work Out – Flexing those muscles also strengthens your brain.

Timed circuit exercises, Zumba instruction and yoga will be provided.

• Chill Out – Lowering your stress level sends brain activity soaring.

Enjoy yoga, biofeedback, meditation and drumming circles.

• Hang Out – Great brains love great company.

Participate in group activities that include playing a floor-size brain board game, engaging in group improvisation, or group art.

• Challenge Yourself – A happy brain is a hard working brain.

Try your hand at new skills such learning puppetry, writing poetry, or mastering brain puzzles.

• Find your purpose – Living a meaningful life keeps your brain engaged and active.

Learn how individuals and families can get involved in volunteer activities designed to foster socialization and engagement in our community.

While the event is free, registration is required. To register, go to act.alz.org/brainfest or call 1-800-272-3900.

To learn more about BrainFest activities as they are announced, and to get the latest news on brain re-search, check out the BrainUp! website at www.brainupfl.org. You’ll also be able to learn about healthy brain basics, find activities to challenge the brain and read about brain health champions of all ages.