The Osher Center offers free lectures on the 2nd Thursday of every month from noon to 1:00 p.m. at 1701 Divisadero, Suite 150 at Sutter Street. Bring a lunch and join us at these free, informative sessions. There is no need to preregister for these presentations; however, if you have questions, please e-mail or call 415-353-7700

April 10, 2008
Neuro-protection: How we can Protect our Brains

Our Speaker: Elizabeth Carney, CNC

Brain fog, forgetfulness and confusion often plague us in our fast paced modern lives. In this discussion, Elizabeth Carney will review how to protect and support brain health to boost our energy, banish brain fog and improve our health through "lifestyle intelligence."  More people are alive over 65 today than ever before. To avoid degenerative diseases of the brain such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and support brain health and longevity with quality of life, we can take steps now to improve our lifestyle.

Elizabeth Carney, CNC has been coaching and teaching individual clients and Corporations about "lifestyle intelligence" and preventive health. She is internationally recognized for her work with neuro- protection, a method to support and protect our brains from degeneration. She has a special interest in working with people on their brain health which she researched and developed while attending Bauman College and New College. She is a certified nutrition consultant (CNC), a member of the Board of Bauman College and is registered with the National Association Nutrition Professionals (NANP).

May 8, 2008
Intro to the Integral Enneagram

Our Speaker: Ian Blei

This presentation of the Integral Enneagram will illuminate what drives you unconsciously, how to catch yourself before you fall prey to old patterns, and how others view the same world differently. In addition, by knowing exactly what resources you have available to you, and where your blind spots are, you'll be better prepared for every interaction; replacing conflict with curiosity.

Ian Blei is the founder of Optimized Results, Director of the Integral Enneagram Institute, and author of "Kind Ambition - Practical Steps to Achieve Success Without Losing Your Soul."  Blending a diverse background from Design Engineering to Psychology, Coaching, Communications, and Integral Spirituality, Ian de-mystifies interaction and relationships. He's helped countless companies save millions of dollars while boosting productivity, and quelled long-running conflicts in minutes using a unique Enneagrammic approach. For more information you can find him at www.Optimized-Results.com or www.IntegralEnneagramInstitute.org.  Ian's Integral Enneagram model will be presented at the Inaugural Integral Theory Conference in August of 2008.

June 12, 2008
Body Awareness in Action: An Introduction to Alexander Technique

Our Speaker: Elyse Shafarman, MA

Alexander Technique has frequently been compared to a Western form of Zen. Based on principals of mindfulness, the technique provides a systematic method to align, relax and free the body from limiting tension habits. The technique has a strong practical emphasis and can be used to increase efficiency and ease during everyday activities such as sitting, standing, speaking and driving. In this interactive session, participants will get an introduction to the basics of the technique through gentle movement and body awareness experiments, and Alexander Technique hands-on guidance.

Elyse Shafarman, MA is an AmSAT certified Alexander Technique Teacher. With a background in Modern Dance and a Masters in Physiological Psychology, Elyse applies an intuitive and lucid approach to helping students access the healing link between mind and body. She has conducted scientific research into the benefits of Alexander Technique for RSI prevention. She teaches Alexander Technique in San Francisco and Berkeley, and at American Conservatory Theater. For more information on please visit her website at http://www.bodyproject.us.