Library promotes wellness through programs and materials

Many people struggle to keep New Year’s resolutions of maintaining a healthy routine. For those looking for ways to stick to new goals, increase wellness literacy, or simply try something new, Heights Libraries offers programs and resources.

Heights Libraries’ Coventry Village branch has made it a priority to develop ongoing programs that meet the diverse wellness needs of the community by recognizing that wellness comes in many forms.

“At Coventry, we focus on wellness as a holistic condition of mind, body and spirit,” said Patricia Gray, Coventry Village branch manager. “Our Step Out of Time series, for example, features a variety of ‘alternative’ health practices, from yoga and meditation to acupuncture and aromatherapy. We have also explored specific spiritual beliefs that community members are interested in, such as Buddhism, reincarnation, past lives, spiritual cleansing practices, and many others.”

Like all Heights Libraries’ programs, Step Out of Time is free and open to the public. This month’s session will take place on Thursday, Feb. 14, at 7 p.m., and will feature a guided relaxation session and group meditation for both new and experienced participants.

While some of the library’s wellness programs are one-offs, others take place more regularly. Tai Chi, which meets four times a week, is one of Coventry’s most popular programs. “It’s a slow-motion, low-impact routine that is fun and doable at any age,” Gray explained. 

In addition to offering dozens of in-library programs, Heights Libraries provides a wide range of traditional print and digital resources, on topics ranging from plant-based diets and exercise regimens to spirituality and budgeting.

Heights Libraries recently expanded its collections to include online streaming services, such as Acorn TV, Hoopla, and Kanopy.

Gray hopes that these programs and resources serve as a point of departure, inspiring residents to incorporate healthy behaviors into their individual routines.

“These programs are settings where people talk to each other, make new friends, or discover new interests,” said Gray. “Each will attract a somewhat different group, but the people who attend will learn a little bit about a new practice that they can apply to their lives or pursue further if they wish. I have had dozens of people thank me for the Step Out of Time series, saying that it has changed their lives for the better. And that, of course, is the goal.”

For details on Heights Libraries programs and online resources, visit www.heightslibrary.org or call 216-932-3600.