Stress Less and Live More

by Ellen Griffin Shade, Avondale Regional Branch Library


April was designated Stress Awareness Month in 1992 in an effort to increase public awareness of stress, its harmful effects, and better ways to manage it. This month at the Avondale Library we have some great adult programs that can help you de-stress—everything from doing yoga to crafting lavender bath salts. Programs are free but space is limited, so call 205-226-4000 or register online through the Birmingham Public Library events calendar.

Yoga is a great way to de-stress, and our gentle yoga class is a great way to get started:

Friday, April 20 @ 11:00 a.m., Gentle Yoga – Ms. Hardy will talk about and demonstrate the importance of exercise through mediation and how to develop a healthier attitude and lifestyle. Patrons are asked to wear suitable exercise attire and athletic shoes.

Crafting is another great way to reduce stress, and we even provide the materials and instructions to make the whole process hassle-free. Here’s a list of our upcoming craft programs for adults:

Wednesday, April 4 @ 2:00 p.m., Club Create – Come together to create something new! We'll tackle a new craft project each month, with instruction and materials provided. This month we’re crafting calming lavender soaps, bath salts, and tub tea.

Wednesday, April 11 @ 2:00 p.m., Art Party – A different art project is offered each month with materials and instruction provided, and each participant can create a unique work of art. This month we’re creating button collage moon canvases.

Wednesday, April 18 @ 2:00 p.m., Books & Beads – Join us for our monthly jewelry-making adventure. Materials, tools, and instructions are provided, and each participant will complete a jewelry project to take home. Adults of all skill levels are welcome. This month we’re hosting a jewelry recycling workshop: Bring in damaged or unwanted items to break up and make into new jewelry.

Wednesday, April 25 @ 2:00 p.m., Fiber Arts on Fifth Avenue – Knitters, crocheters, and other "fiber artists" of all skill levels can bring their supplies to this informal group to share tips and ideas! The library will have a limited supply of needles and yarn available on a first come, first served basis.

If these programs don’t fit your schedule, adult coloring is another fun way to relax, and drop-in adult coloring stations are available in the Avondale Library Adult Department anytime!

And you can always try my favorite way to de-stress: reading! (We can help you with that too.)

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