Let the library help you focus on mindful moments

There’s no question December can be a busy time for many people. Between holidays, travel, gift giving and wrapping and more, people often say they feel frazzled and worn out. Why not give yourself a gift this holiday season and join us at the Bloomfield Branch Library for a “Mindful Moments” session?

Janice Duffy of Serendipity Yoga brings considerable experience and knowledge, and her welcoming and warm manner makes everyone feel welcome and included.
The “Mindful Moments “sessions will offer a gentle introduction to breathwork, meditation, and singing bowls. These are all practices that support relaxation, clarity, and overall well being. No previous experience is required – whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned meditator – you’re welcome.

You’ll be guided through simple breathwork techniques to calm the mind, ease tension, and support a healthy nervous system. These practices can help reduce stress, improve focus, and invite a greater sense of ease in daily life. From there, a 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.

There will be two dates to choose from – Friday, Dec. 12 and Friday, Jan. 16, both at 2 p.m. There’s no charge and you’re welcome to come to one or both, but space is limited. Please register at peclibrary.org or call (613) 393-3400.

If you are interested in learning more about mindfulness, the library has a number of resources. Mindfulness for Beginners by Jon Kabat-Zinn is a good starting point. In a 2022 CBC article, he explained the core idea. “It’s about paying attention on purpose in the present moment, non-judgmentally. Well, why, in the present moment? When else could we possibly pay attention? There is no other moment that we’re alive in except this one. So the present moment is important, because it’s the only time we can ever perceive anything, learn anything, grow as a result of that learning, heal, or transform. The only time we ever have is the present moment.”

There are also several audiobooks on meditation that you can download or stream from the library. Titles include Meditation: Using Guided Sleep Meditation, Sleep Meditation, Music Meditation and More by Athena Doros, The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mindfulness by Dr. Henriette Sparson and more. Drop into any branch for more.

These events are part of our ongoing health and wellness series. Thanks to a Seniors Community Program Grant through the government of Ontario, we have planned a great series that was kicked off by a Fascial Stretch Therapy session led by Kathy McAlpine. Through the rest of the winter we will be offering a range of programs all designed to introduce you to health and wellness practitioners operating in the community.

If you’d like to stay up to date on the library’s programs, register for the weekly email newsletter. Visit peclibrary.org or ask at any branch of the library. You can also give us a call at (613) 476-5962 and we will register you over the phone.