Have a good laugh (and more) to add spark to body and mind

One of the great things about library programs is the opportunity to discover community resources you may want to explore further. Throughout the winter months we have been offering a range of programs with health and wellness information, all designed to provide free and no-pressure introductions to providers and resources in the community.

This series will continue throughout March, thanks to the Ontario Seniors Program grant. All are welcome – please reserve your seat at peclibrary.org or call (613) 476-5962.

Who doesn’t love a good laugh? Janet Elson will join us at the Wellington Branch Library on Friday, March 20 at 2 p.m. for Laughter Yoga. According to Laughter Yoga International, it’s “a powerful and uplifting wellness practice that blends intentional laughter with gentle yogic breathing. It’s not about jokes, comedy, or being funny. Instead, it’s about choosing to laugh, even when there’s no reason, and allowing that simple act to spark real, lasting change in your body and mind.”

Janet will also lead Introduction to Qi Gong on Friday, March 27 at 2 p.m. at the Picton Branch. Writer Janet Ho describes Qi Gong as an “ancient Chinese practice designed to improve mobility and well-being, combining slow body movements with focused breathing. The Mandarin term qigong (pronounced chee-kung or chee-kong) can be translated to “energy work,” which is the foundation of the whole practice: enhancing the flow of energy through the body.” No experience is required.

Corina Brdar will join us at the Milford Branch on Saturday, March 21 at 1 p.m. for a program about Nature Journaling. She describes nature journaling as a practice for connecting with nature, a personal response to nature, and a way to foster curiosity, be still and experience wonder.

On March 25 at 11 a.m. in the Picton Branch, Hedy Campbell will give a talk entitled “My Vision: Inspired by the Blue Zones”. She will share her personal journey with food through different cultures and time, as a child, working mother, grandmother, trainee chef, and artist.  The 2004 discovery of “Blue Zones” –  places where people live longer and healthier than anywhere else – helped reveal the vital role of food choices in our life.

Janice Duffy will lead a Mindful Moments program at the Picton Branch on March 31 at 2 p.m.  This session offers a gentle introduction to breathwork, meditation, and singing bowls — practices that support relaxation, clarity, and overall well-being. Guided meditation will offer time to slow down and reconnect with stillness. Meditation helps cultivate presence and mindfulness, creating space for both mental and emotional balance. The session will close with the soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls, whose gentle vibrations help deepen relaxation and bring the body and mind into harmony. This experience is open to everyone — no prior experience with yoga or meditation is needed. All are welcome to come as they are, breathe deeply, and enjoy an hour of calm and connection in community.

Reserve your spot at any of these talks at peclibrary.org, and join us to learn, relax, and connect with your community this March.