In addition to being dedicated to African American history, February, as most people know, is also dedicated to heart health. And while the month is drawing to a close, it’s never too late to make the decision to try to improve heart health.

There are some excellent online resources that can help people achieve that goal, such as CDC.gov/quit and smokefree.gov, which help people to quit smoking – one of the best things people can do for their hearts. But, in Grafton, there are several other ways that children and adults can be kind to their hearts.

Being kind to others must be good for the heart. And local book club members, who met when their kids attended Grafton Children’s Daycare and Preschool Center know how wonderful it feels. When member Erin Smith suggested a Galentine’s Day raffle baskets fundraiser for Abby’s House, the other moms loved the idea. Together they raised $1,700 for the Worcester non-profit shelter for women and children. On her Facebook page, Mrs. Smith wrote, “They took an idea I had and made it into a night I could have never pulled off alone!” Jackie Vincent, another member, was excited to participate in the February 13 event at the Town House Tavern. She loved the idea of Grafton women coming together to help other women, and she said the moms hope to do it again next year.

The Grafton Senior Center is trying to help seniors to keep their hearts healthy. The center’s classes include Breathing and Healing Chair Yoga, Fall Prevention Exercise, Cardio Barre Exercise, Zumba, Senior Exercise Class, Tone and Stretch Exercise and Nutrition Class.  

Similarly, Grafton Community Television has also been helping seniors. GCT airs the center’s previous Senior Strength class at 10:30 a.m. every day. The classes can be viewed on Ch. 34 on Verizon and Ch. 191 on Charter.

The Barre Effect offers various classes in barre, yoga and Pilates at its North Grafton studio. Additionally, it has a virtual option for people who want to get fit from home. For more information, visit the studio’s website, www.barreeffect.com. 

The Town of Grafton Recreation Department is now offering exercise classes for adults. The classes include Metafit, Yoga and Pilates. More information can be found on the department’s website, www.GraftonRec.com. 

For adults, teens and children who want to get fit and express themselves creatively, there are a few Grafton businesses that can help. Dance classes for children, teens and adults of all ages (including people with special needs) are available at Grafton Common-based Beatz Dance Studio, www.beatzdance.com. In addition to its adult Zumba and Tap classes, the studio has adult Ballet Tone and Technique and other classes. Several dance classes for kids and teens are also available at North Grafton’s Dance It Up, www.danceitup.com. And all levels of Irish dance classes for children and teens can be found at Murphy Academy of Irish Dance, www.murphyacademy.com. 

Celebrating valentines and galentines with hearts and flowers has ceased for this year. But every day is a good day to give “flowers” to our hearts.

It’s best to check with your doctor before starting a new fitness regimen. 

Contact Christine with your business news items at [email protected].