Happily Ageing GalS - growing and creating

Explore something new FOR YOURSELF. Three Friday morning workshops offering a space to nurture ourselves, be creative and have fun .

All the sessions run from 10am- 12 and include a break for refreshments. ( cost includes refreshments).

2026

Session 1 Jan 9 th Patchwork and Quilting

Led by Isabel

Hand Stitched Patchwork

The workshop will be an introduction to an unusual type of patchwork known as Suffolk Puffs or Yo-Yos. Materials and equipment will be provided. This type of patchwork is easy for those with little experience of sewing, and for those that are more proficient also.

Session 2 Jan 16th Creative Writing - have a go at playing with words

Led by Jenny

Creative writing session- Playing with words. Come and have a go at writing

Artist Jenny Harris will lead you through a series of fun and accessible writing prompts where we will have chance to try expressing ourselves creatively and consider through words our thoughts and ideas about ageing and share our rich experiences

Session 3 Jan 23rd Drumming

Led by Zsuzsi

Group drumming offers a powerful, accessible way for older people to support their mental, physical, and social wellbeing. Research shows that taking part in weekly drumming sessions can significantly reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting overall mental wellbeing.

These benefits are complemented by gentle physical activity—such as rhythmic movement, drumming, or chair-based percussion—which helps improve coordination, increase energy, and keep the body active in a safe, enjoyable way.Equally important, group drumming strengthens social connection.

Making music together fosters a sense of belonging, helping older adults build friendships and feel more supported within their community. Studies also suggest that drumming may encourage positive biological changes, including a shift toward healthier, anti-inflammatory immune responses.Altogether, group drumming provides a joyful, inclusive, and evidence-based approach to enhancing quality of life for older people.

This session will include :

• Fun warm-up activities, including dancing
• A chance to explore a wide range of world drums: djembe, conga, frame drums, maracas, surdo, tambourine, bells, and more
• Rhythm improvisation and playful exploration
• Call-and-response rhythm games and learning simple rhythms
• Singing and drumming together