Coming Together for Winter Wellness

Last Thursday, the Marie Lloyd Centre was filled with warmth, conversation and the wonderful sound of community coming together for our Keeping Sharp Winter Wellness Celebration. The afternoon began with hot drinks and mince pies welcoming people out of the cold, before everyone slowly drifted between the different activity tables in their own time.

At one end of the room, the art table was busy with colour, glitter and concentration as handmade Christmas cards began to take shape. Nearby, Sushmita and Richard, physios from Homerton Hospital, offered ferrule checks and replacements for anyone who needed a safer, steadier walking aid. The gentle smell of herbs drifted from the tea blending table with Litchey from Food for All, where people sampled nettle, lemon balm, moringa and more – discovering new flavours to take home.

Nerine from Holly Street Luncheon Club served a delicious, healthy winter spread, which quickly became a highlight of the afternoon. After lunch, many joined in with our exercise taster sessions, from mindful movement to dance, giving everyone the chance to try something new in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

And as the day came to a close, the Hackney Dudes gathered everyone together for a final moment of joy. Their carols filled the room and made for the perfect ending – a reminder of how uplifting it is to share music, community and laughter during the festive season.

We’re grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered or supported the event, and we look forward to welcoming everyone again in the new year.