If you’re seeking inspiration to actually fulfill that new years resolution to lose weight, or do something you’ve never done before (like running the Point of Honor 5k), or if you’re just simply wishing for a happy new year, Wellness Cinema features something for you.
On the first Thursday of every month, January through April, Lynchburg Parks and Recreation invites the community to our new and inspiring Wellness Cinema nights. This four-part documentary film series, hosted in Miller Center‘s newly renovated theater, will explore mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, and holistic health care. Each film will follow with a brief Q&A discussion session, hosted by a local professional in the subject being addressed in the film. This uplifting cinematic experience welcomes anyone interested in living a happy and healthy life.
VIEWER DISCRETION: This program contains inspirational content, which may leave viewers with a heightened sense of personal awareness or self-motivation. Learn more about the documentaries and films below
The Wellness Cinema Documentaries and Films:
Happy | January 7th | 7PM – 9PM
Does money make you HAPPY? Kids and family? Your work? Do you live in a world that values and promotes happiness and well-being? Are we in the midst of a happiness revolution? The documentary HAPPY takes us on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy. Combining real life stories and powerful interviews with the leading scientists in happiness research, HAPPY explores the secrets behind our most valued emotion. This film will be followed by a Q&A discussion session hosted by Denise Scruggs, MA, MS, CADDCT, Director of the Beard Center on Aging at Lynchburg College.
Hungry for Change | February 4th | 7PM – 9PM
We all want more energy, an ideal body and beautiful younger looking skin. So what is stopping us from getting this? From the creators of the best-selling documentary FOOD MATTERS comes another hard-hitting film certain to rock your world. ‘Hungry For Change’ is the first film in its genre to really empower and provide practical and realistic solutions. Find out what’s keeping you from having the body and health you deserve and how to escape the diet trap forever. Featuring interviews with best-selling health authors and leading medical experts, plus real life transformational stories from those who know what it’s like to be sick and overweight. This film will be followed by a Q&A discussion session hosted by Tonya C. Price, MS, RDN, Instructor in Health Promotion Department at Lynchburg College.
You Can Heal Your Life | March 3rd | 7PM – 9PM
You Can Heal Your Life: The Movie, documents the life and work of Louise L. Hay, one of the founders of the self-help movement. Through Louise’s healing techniques and positive philosophy, millions have learned to create more of what they want in their lives–more wellness in their bodies, minds, and spirits. This film not only features an intimate look into her moving and inspirational life story, but also a special segment devoted to help you apply Louise’s affirmations and groundbreaking wisdom to heal your own life and the challenges you face today. This film will be followed by a Q&A discussion session hosted by Jolly Stickley, founder of Energy Restructure, published author, and educator.
Spirit of the Marathon | April 7 | 7PM – 9PM
Four years in the making, Spirit of the Marathon is the collaborative effort of three-time Academy Award winner Mark Jonathan Harris, Telly Award winner and marathon runner Jon Dunham and producer/marathoner Gwendolen Twist. Spirit of the Marathon is the first ever non-fiction feature film to capture the drama and essence of the famed 26.2 mile running event. Filmed on four continents, the movie brings together a diverse cast of amateur athletes and marathon luminaries preparing for the Chicago Marathon. More than a sports movie, Spirit of the Marathon is an inspirational journey of perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners and non-runners alike. This film will be followed by a Q&A discussion session hosted by David Horton, Professor of Exercise Science at Liberty University.
For More Information on the Professionals Hosting Q&A Session:
Denise Scruggs is the Director of the Beard Center on Aging at Lynchburg College, a columnist for the “Senior News” magazine, and a trainer for the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Denise has worked over twenty years with older adults and those with dementia. She is also a cancer survivor who overcame adversity and inspires others.
Tonya Price, MS, RDN, has worked in the field of nutrition for 19 years and as a Registered Dietitian for 18 years. Her passion is sharing the extraordinary benefits of healthy eating with her students and the public. Her experience includes working as clinical dietitian in hospitals, long term acute care, long term care, as well as a nutrition counseling business owner in the outpatient setting. She a mother of 4 (including 2 teenagers!), an instructor in the Health Promotion department of Lynchburg College, and is also working on her Doctorate in Health Education.
Jolly Stickley, published Author and Educator, is the founder of Energy Restructure, developed in 1999. Her extensive training in psychic development, breath therapy, and therapeutic body work all play a part in the work she does today. Jolly facilitates group and individual private sessions, groups in addition to leading trainings in Breath and Energy Restructure. Louise Hays’ book, “You Can Heal Your Life” is a personal and professional reference she has used for many years.
David Horton, Professor of Exercise Science at Liberty University, has completed over 30 marathons and 160 ultra-marathons. Some of his most notable running achievements include finishing the 2,906 mile Trans-American Race, setting the speed record on the Appalachian (2,184 mi) and Pacific Crest (2,650 mi) Trails. David has been the director of over 70 ultra- marathons and has a lifetime mileage of over 113,000 miles.
How Do I Register?
Registration for classes and activities can be done in one of the following two ways.
1. IN PERSON – Visit our offices at Miller Center, 301 Grove Street, between the hours of 8:30am and 5:00pm to register in person. One of our friendly customer service staff members would be happy to assist you.
2. ONLINE – Most of our classes are available for online registration. Activities with special registration instructions (for example, adult athletic leagues) will be notes in the activity description. If you have any issues navigating online registration, feel free to call us at (434) 455-5858 and we will be happy to walk you through it.
Note: Youth under age 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Register in advance online or the day of event at venue.