West Berkshire Libraries | West Berkshire Villagers

Children’s therapist and author Becky Goddard-Hill reminds us that “Researchers at the University of Sussex have found that even six minutes of reading can reduce a person’s stress levels by two thirds…

In fact, they have found that reading works faster than any other way of de-stressing, such as listening to music, going for a walk or even enjoying a warm drink.”

oining West Berkshire Libraries is free and open to everyone. You only need to register online if you have not already done so at a library.

Online Registration will enable you to use our e-Resources free of charge.

Our Friday online storytime sessions and popular weekend children’s crafts are continuing throughout May. Don’t forget that you can read details about these and all our forthcoming events and other news by following @WBerksLibraries on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Happening at the Hub

Soil Drawing event with Emma Binns |

Inspired by The Well Gardened Mind, go on a slight tangent with local garden designer Emma Binns and learn the simple technique of soil drawing. This technique is one of many that can be used to help you be more mindful. Explore different leaf and flower shapes and use them to create your own transient landscape picture. In doing so, you will naturally become more aware of the different qualities of plants. A focus on creating something using natural resources and your imagination is very calming and restorative. 

Spaces are limited. Book your free ticket here

The Well Gardened Mind |

The first in a season of events centred around wellbeing and mental health.

How can gardening relieve stress and help us look after our mental health?

Book your free ticket here

What lies behind the restorative power of the natural world? In a powerful combination of contemporary neuroscience, psychoanalysis and brilliant storytelling, The Well Gardened Mind investigates the magic that many gardeners have known for years – working with nature can radically transform our health, wellbeing and confidence.

With illuminating stories of how people struggling with stress, depression, trauma and addiction can change their lives, this inspiring and wise book of science, insight and anecdote – now translated into fifteen languages – shows how our understanding of nature and its restorative powers is only just beginning to flower.

Sue will be giving us an illustrated talk, and attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions. The book is available to buy from Hungerford Bookshop.

 

 

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