Clarity of Mind, my nonprofit, was birthed from understanding my family history of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Clarity of mind also grew out of my Girl Scout Gold Award. Clarity of Mind’s mission statement is to provide the resources needed for wholesome mental health. Currently, Clarity of Mind is focused on the elderly, however resources can be used for all age groups. My team of volunteers and I conduct mental health awareness days every other month at local retirement homes with memory care patients. Clarity of Mind has expanded to Frisco, Plano and Dallas. The Mental Awareness Day consist of, dancers, story/poetry readers, an exercise program, based off the Ageless Grace curriculum, and art/crafts. Researched Music is used that balances out the brain chemicals to enhance, positive mood, memory and focus, while also reducing anxiety and depression. Increasing serotonin, while also eliminating acidic levels in the body that could cause stress or memory loss, is the focus of the program. The day begins by decorating the room with color, so when the residents come in the bright colors visually stimulate the brain. All sensory components of the brain are stimulated through visual décor, performances, musical instruments, music, exercise and arts/crafts.
There are numerous case studies proving movement has helped to reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other illnesses that affect the neurological health of the elderly. With mental health issues on the rise in all ages of our population, because of social media as it pertains to teens, older age and other demographic and social forces, mental health has become a passion of mine. My plan became, how could I increase the neurotransmitters in the brain and create a positive atmosphere for the elderly residents with memory care challenges? I was inspired to create a dance program, based on ageless grace curriculum for my Girl Scout Gold Award, which now has turned to a mental health awareness day, specifically for senior citizens who would benefit from integrating dance into their lives along with enjoying the socialization of performances, arts and crafts and researched music known to increase neuropathy. Hence, my non profit was born, Clarity of Mind. While understanding the immediate impact on the brain, and how to establish channels of sustainability in mood, and create outcome standards that would be visible from the time the program begins at 9 am until it ends at noon, has been the success of the program. Hopefully, this program helps to increase sustained neurotransmitters in the brain along with other chemical balances, to improve overall health including, joint, bone and especially brain health.
Check out how I am partnering with the community to reach my goals.