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VIRTUAL: Grief Journaling Workshop
Sunday, April 25, 2021
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Meeting Space
Zoom Info: REGISTER HERE
During these uncertain and heartbreaking times, we know many people are hurting and looking for ways to deal with all of the emotions that are bubbling up. With us not being able to go to our loved ones when they are sick and/or dying, or to take solace in gathering with other loved ones, many of us are dealing with things we may never have before in our lives. One thing that we at the Oak Park Public Library have found that helps is journaling. While this is not counseling or therapy, it is a way for us to express ourselves and we invite everyone to journal with us.
In addition to dealing with the pandemic, other tragic events of life and death are still happening all around us.
Have you experienced the loss of a loved one (a partner, family member, mentor, friend, etc.)? Are you experiencing ambiguous loss* or anticipatory grief*? Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, you are welcome to join us on this journey of journaling. Each session will begin with prompts and/or a guided meditation followed by time to journal. At the end of each session, we will set aside time to share, if you feel so moved. Feel free to come to any or all workshops.
* Ambiguous loss refers to loss without closure. The person is often left searching for answers, which often results in unresolved grief. Some examples are infertility, termination of pregnancy, disappearance of a family member, death of an ex-spouse, a family member being physically alive but in a state of cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease or dementia, etc.
* Anticipatory grief refers to a feeling of grief occurring before an impending loss.
VIRTUAL: Community Circle: Understanding Trauma of Sexual Violence
Monday, April 26, 2021
4:00 PM - 5:15 PM
Virtual & Offsite
In support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, this community circle is designed to unpack and understand the effects of trauma from sexual violence. Library staff members who are trained circle keepers will facilitate the community discussion using the model of circles, which honors our stories, community relationships, and ability to keep learning from each other. A trained clinical counselor and advocate, certified by the state of Illinois to provide crisis intervention and support, will be present at the circle for individual assistance.
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Sexual violence is an umbrella term that includes any type of unwanted sexual contact-either in person or online-including sexual assault, harassment, and abuse. Sexual violence is a societal problem that can have lasting effects on survivors and their families, friends, and communities.
About community circles
Circles are a structured process to build community where everyone feels connected and respected in their authentic selves. Led by library staff who are certified facilitators, we come together to explore a subject by asking a series of questions and providing all with an equal opportunity to share, listen to one another, and reflect on the importance to their own lives. Circles as we practice them are rooted in the traditional practices of Indigenous cultures in North America. This program is led by trained Circle Keepers and Librarians Rose Barnes and Beronica Puhr. Learn more about circles »
About partnership with Pillars Community Health Sexual Assault Services
A trained clinical counselor and advocate, certified by the state of Illinois to provide crisis intervention and support, will be present at the circle for individual assistance. On top of providing emotional support, they can answer any questions about the legal or medical process for survivors, offer referrals, and complete counseling intake for interested participants. Learn more about Pillars Community Health Sexual Assault Services »
VIRTUAL: Chair Yoga
Tuesday, April 27, 2021
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Program
New series! Calm and center your mind while moving your body through intentional poses and sequences during these bi-weekly chair yoga sessions. Now is a great time to start a practice or revisit one. Chair yoga can improve your flexibility, concentration, and strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain.
What to know before you join
- Chair yoga and meditation are accessible and open for all
- Dress comfortably
- Find a location where you can focus and dedicate 30 minutes to you
- You are not required to keep your camera on
- Prepare to take time to match your movement and motion and have a little fun
- Have a chair that can be stationary
About the instructor
Instructor DuShaun Branch is focused on bringing yoga to as many BIPOC and plus-sized communities as possible. She believes people not only need rest and relaxation, but resistance. Yoga is a powerful way to tap into the balance of ease and positive effort. DuShaun teaches through the lens of equity and trauma-informed, hosting classes in “nontraditional” settings all over the city. She intends on taking down as many barriers as possible to bring yoga to those who are looking for calm and relaxed minds. DuShaun truly believes yoga is for all, and shares that throughout Chicago and beyond.
Disclaimer
By joining this class, you declare that you are physically fit and ready to participate in yoga classes and understand that yoga, as with any physical activity, may involve some risk of injury. If at any time you feel discomfort or strain, gently come out of the posture. You may rest at any time during the class. It is your responsibility to consult with your physician with respect to any past or present injury, illness, health problem, or any other condition or medication that may affect your participation.
The participant assumes all risks of injury and illness that may result from such participation. The participant agrees to waive and release the Oak Park Public Library, its officers, employees, trustees, and agents and shall hold such persons/entity harmless from any and all liability for any claim, suit, or other cause of action which might arise from injuries, illness, damages, or loss which may occur on account of participation in such activities.
VIRTUAL: Midday Meditation
Tuesday, May 04, 2021
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Program
You've likely heard people talk about the benefits of meditation for managing stress, boosting the immune system, and increasing energy. Now is a great time to start a practice or revisit one. This is a welcoming group of meditators, old and brand new. The session starts with Kundalini breath practices that offer powerful practices to shift your state of mind and make meditation more accessible.
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About the instructor
Teacher Betsy Grimm is a yoga and meditation instructor who is drawn to practices to help manage mood, anxiety, and depression.
VIRTUAL: Chair Yoga
Tuesday, May 11, 2021
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Program
New series! Calm and center your mind while moving your body through intentional poses and sequences during these bi-weekly chair yoga sessions. Now is a great time to start a practice or revisit one. Chair yoga can improve your flexibility, concentration, and strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain.
What to know before you join
- Chair yoga and meditation are accessible and open for all
- Dress comfortably
- Find a location where you can focus and dedicate 30 minutes to you
- You are not required to keep your camera on
- Prepare to take time to match your movement and motion and have a little fun
- Have a chair that can be stationary
About the instructor
Instructor DuShaun Branch is focused on bringing yoga to as many BIPOC and plus-sized communities as possible. She believes people not only need rest and relaxation, but resistance. Yoga is a powerful way to tap into the balance of ease and positive effort. DuShaun teaches through the lens of equity and trauma-informed, hosting classes in “nontraditional” settings all over the city. She intends on taking down as many barriers as possible to bring yoga to those who are looking for calm and relaxed minds. DuShaun truly believes yoga is for all, and shares that throughout Chicago and beyond.
Disclaimer
By joining this class, you declare that you are physically fit and ready to participate in yoga classes and understand that yoga, as with any physical activity, may involve some risk of injury. If at any time you feel discomfort or strain, gently come out of the posture. You may rest at any time during the class. It is your responsibility to consult with your physician with respect to any past or present injury, illness, health problem, or any other condition or medication that may affect your participation.
The participant assumes all risks of injury and illness that may result from such participation. The participant agrees to waive and release the Oak Park Public Library, its officers, employees, trustees, and agents and shall hold such persons/entity harmless from any and all liability for any claim, suit, or other cause of action which might arise from injuries, illness, damages, or loss which may occur on account of participation in such activities.
VIRTUAL: Thrive Talk: Transitions in Adolescents
Thursday, May 13, 2021
7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Join Thrive Counseling for the upcoming talk "The Times, They Are A-Changin’: Transitions in Adolescents" with guest speaker Dr. Hillary Urban, PsyD.
Dr. Urban will lead a discussion on how to better detect developmental transitions in teens. In this hour-long Thrive Talk, we will discuss parenting issues which may be heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, including:
- How teens express anxiety and depression
- The impact of the pandemic on teens, and
- The challenges teens may experience during periods of transition.
REGISTER IN EVENTBRITE NOW: After you register, you will receive a specific Zoom link to join the event.
About the presenter
Dr. Urban is a therapist at
Wildflower Center for Emotional Health. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree
in Psychology from Michigan State University and her Masters and Doctoral
degrees in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional
Psychology.
VIRTUAL: Year of the Butterfly: Gardening Party with Girl Scouts
Sunday, May 16, 2021
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Program
Join us at a Spring Gardening Party, co-hosted by the Girl Scouts. At this event, we will read a story about gardening, talk about why gardening is important, and make a planter out of a recyclable container with items found around your house! Families of all ages are welcome!
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REGISTER IN ZOOM NOW: After you register, you will receive a specific Zoom link to join the event.
Materials needed (items commonly found around the house)
Materials needed (items commonly found around the house)
- Helpful adult (for younger audience members)
- Recycled milk carton or jug
- Box cutter and scissors
- Brushes for paints
- Acrylic paints (assorted colors)
About the Year of the Butterfly
This event is part of the Year of the Butterfly initiative going on from April 22-August 31. Check out other cool Monarch Butterfly activities happening at Oak Park Public Library at oppl.org/butterfly and in the community at fopcon.org/year-of-the-butterfly. What is the Year of the Monarch and how can you participate? Check out the llinois Monarch Project »VIRTUAL: Afternoon Meditation
Tuesday, May 18, 2021
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Program
You've likely heard people talk about the benefits of meditation for managing stress, boosting the immune system, and increasing energy. Now is a great time to start a practice or revisit one. This is a welcoming group of meditators, old and brand new.
What to know before you join
- Chair yoga and meditation are accessible and open for all
- Dress comfortably
- Find a location where you can focus and dedicate 30 minutes to you
- You are not required to keep your camera on
- Prepare to take time to match your movement and motion and have a little fun
- Have a chair that can be stationary
About the instructor
Instructor DuShaun Branch is focused on bringing meditation and yoga to as many BIPOC and plus-sized communities as possible. DuShaun teaches through the lens of equity and trauma-informed, hosting classes in “nontraditional” settings all over the city. She intends on taking down as many barriers as possible to bring meditation and yoga to those who are looking for calm and relaxed minds.
VIRTUAL: Chair Yoga
Tuesday, May 25, 2021
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Program
New series! Calm and center your mind while moving your body through intentional poses and sequences during these bi-weekly chair yoga sessions. Now is a great time to start a practice or revisit one. Chair yoga can improve your flexibility, concentration, and strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain.
What to know before you join
- Chair yoga and meditation are accessible and open for all
- Dress comfortably
- Find a location where you can focus and dedicate 30 minutes to you
- You are not required to keep your camera on
- Prepare to take time to match your movement and motion and have a little fun
- Have a chair that can be stationary
About the instructor
Instructor DuShaun Branch is focused on bringing yoga to as many BIPOC and plus-sized communities as possible. She believes people not only need rest and relaxation, but resistance. Yoga is a powerful way to tap into the balance of ease and positive effort. DuShaun teaches through the lens of equity and trauma-informed, hosting classes in “nontraditional” settings all over the city. She intends on taking down as many barriers as possible to bring yoga to those who are looking for calm and relaxed minds. DuShaun truly believes yoga is for all, and shares that throughout Chicago and beyond.
Disclaimer
By joining this class, you declare that you are physically fit and ready to participate in yoga classes and understand that yoga, as with any physical activity, may involve some risk of injury. If at any time you feel discomfort or strain, gently come out of the posture. You may rest at any time during the class. It is your responsibility to consult with your physician with respect to any past or present injury, illness, health problem, or any other condition or medication that may affect your participation.
The participant assumes all risks of injury and illness that may result from such participation. The participant agrees to waive and release the Oak Park Public Library, its officers, employees, trustees, and agents and shall hold such persons/entity harmless from any and all liability for any claim, suit, or other cause of action which might arise from injuries, illness, damages, or loss which may occur on account of participation in such activities.
VIRTUAL: Grief Journaling Workshop
Sunday, May 30, 2021
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Meeting Space
Zoom Info: REGISTER HERE
During these uncertain and heartbreaking times, we know many people are hurting and looking for ways to deal with all of the emotions that are bubbling up. With us not being able to go to our loved ones when they are sick and/or dying, or to take solace in gathering with other loved ones, many of us are dealing with things we may never have before in our lives. One thing that we at the Oak Park Public Library have found that helps is journaling. While this is not counseling or therapy, it is a way for us to express ourselves and we invite everyone to journal with us.
In addition to dealing with the pandemic, other tragic events of life and death are still happening all around us.
Have you experienced the loss of a loved one (a partner, family member, mentor, friend, etc.)? Are you experiencing ambiguous loss* or anticipatory grief*? Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, you are welcome to join us on this journey of journaling. Each session will begin with prompts and/or a guided meditation followed by time to journal. At the end of each session, we will set aside time to share, if you feel so moved. Feel free to come to any or all workshops.
* Ambiguous loss refers to loss without closure. The person is often left searching for answers, which often results in unresolved grief. Some examples are infertility, termination of pregnancy, disappearance of a family member, death of an ex-spouse, a family member being physically alive but in a state of cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease or dementia, etc.
* Anticipatory grief refers to a feeling of grief occurring before an impending loss.
VIRTUAL: Death Cafe
Sunday, June 27, 2021
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Virtual & Offsite
At a Death Cafe people, often strangers, gather to discuss death. Our objective is to bring awareness to the impermanent nature of life so that we may remember the sacredness of each breath.
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REGISTER IN ZOOM NOW: After you register, you will receive a specific Zoom link to join the event.
About Death Cafes
A Death Cafe is a group-directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives, or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counseling session. Death Cafes are always offered: on a not-for-profit basis, in an accessible, respectful, and confidential space; with no intention of leading people to any conclusion, product, or course of action.
VIRTUAL: Grief Journaling Workshop
Sunday, June 27, 2021
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Meeting Space
Zoom Info: REGISTER HERE
During these uncertain and heartbreaking times, we know many people are hurting and looking for ways to deal with all of the emotions that are bubbling up. With us not being able to go to our loved ones when they are sick and/or dying, or to take solace in gathering with other loved ones, many of us are dealing with things we may never have before in our lives. One thing that we at the Oak Park Public Library have found that helps is journaling. While this is not counseling or therapy, it is a way for us to express ourselves and we invite everyone to journal with us.
In addition to dealing with the pandemic, other tragic events of life and death are still happening all around us.
Have you experienced the loss of a loved one (a partner, family member, mentor, friend, etc.)? Are you experiencing ambiguous loss* or anticipatory grief*? Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, you are welcome to join us on this journey of journaling. Each session will begin with prompts and/or a guided meditation followed by time to journal. At the end of each session, we will set aside time to share, if you feel so moved. Feel free to come to any or all workshops.
* Ambiguous loss refers to loss without closure. The person is often left searching for answers, which often results in unresolved grief. Some examples are infertility, termination of pregnancy, disappearance of a family member, death of an ex-spouse, a family member being physically alive but in a state of cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease or dementia, etc.
* Anticipatory grief refers to a feeling of grief occurring before an impending loss.
VIRTUAL: Grief Journaling Workshop
Sunday, July 25, 2021
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Meeting Space
Zoom Info: REGISTER HERE
During these uncertain and heartbreaking times, we know many people are hurting and looking for ways to deal with all of the emotions that are bubbling up. With us not being able to go to our loved ones when they are sick and/or dying, or to take solace in gathering with other loved ones, many of us are dealing with things we may never have before in our lives. One thing that we at the Oak Park Public Library have found that helps is journaling. While this is not counseling or therapy, it is a way for us to express ourselves and we invite everyone to journal with us.
In addition to dealing with the pandemic, other tragic events of life and death are still happening all around us.
Have you experienced the loss of a loved one (a partner, family member, mentor, friend, etc.)? Are you experiencing ambiguous loss* or anticipatory grief*? Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, you are welcome to join us on this journey of journaling. Each session will begin with prompts and/or a guided meditation followed by time to journal. At the end of each session, we will set aside time to share, if you feel so moved. Feel free to come to any or all workshops.
* Ambiguous loss refers to loss without closure. The person is often left searching for answers, which often results in unresolved grief. Some examples are infertility, termination of pregnancy, disappearance of a family member, death of an ex-spouse, a family member being physically alive but in a state of cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease or dementia, etc.
* Anticipatory grief refers to a feeling of grief occurring before an impending loss.
VIRTUAL: Grief Journaling Workshop
Sunday, August 29, 2021
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Virtual & Offsite
Virtual Meeting Space
Zoom Info: REGISTER HERE
During these uncertain and heartbreaking times, we know many people are hurting and looking for ways to deal with all of the emotions that are bubbling up. With us not being able to go to our loved ones when they are sick and/or dying, or to take solace in gathering with other loved ones, many of us are dealing with things we may never have before in our lives. One thing that we at the Oak Park Public Library have found that helps is journaling. While this is not counseling or therapy, it is a way for us to express ourselves and we invite everyone to journal with us.
In addition to dealing with the pandemic, other tragic events of life and death are still happening all around us.
Have you experienced the loss of a loved one (a partner, family member, mentor, friend, etc.)? Are you experiencing ambiguous loss* or anticipatory grief*? Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, you are welcome to join us on this journey of journaling. Each session will begin with prompts and/or a guided meditation followed by time to journal. At the end of each session, we will set aside time to share, if you feel so moved. Feel free to come to any or all workshops.
* Ambiguous loss refers to loss without closure. The person is often left searching for answers, which often results in unresolved grief. Some examples are infertility, termination of pregnancy, disappearance of a family member, death of an ex-spouse, a family member being physically alive but in a state of cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease or dementia, etc.
* Anticipatory grief refers to a feeling of grief occurring before an impending loss.
