Spring Into Wellness

By Lori Bradford, Pink Hill Public Library

Earlier this month, Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, meaning an early spring is on the way. As you come out of your winter slumber, the Etta Jones Turner Public Library (Pink Hill Public Library) is inviting patrons to start a wellness journey. Children and Seniors are welcomed to participate in a month-long program series that will feature guest presenters on topics ranging from gardening, to exercise, and nutrition. Both series are aimed at promoting health and wellness in the Pink Hill community.

Our Wellness for Kids 5eries theme is “Mindfulness Comes in Many Colors”, attributed to the variety of programs planned. The first session will be on Wednesday, March 6 with guest Roxanne Jones, from the Pink Hill Wellness and Education Center, introducing simple exercises and movements children can do for the upcoming warmer months. The second session on Wednesday, March 13 will  feature guest Kelly Tyndall, an agent from the Lenoir County Cooperative Extension, showcasing colorful Dr. Seuss inspired recipes that make vegetables less intimidating. The final session on Wednesday, March 20 will  be led by presenter Paige Petticrew, a Horticulture Agent with the Lenoir County Cooperative Extension, leading children through the square foot gardening method. Participants will walk away with knowledge on how to care for their plants.

Our Senior Wellness Series theme is “Building Healthier Habits”. The first session on Tuesday, March 5 will be a Tai Chi class presented by Roxanne, a certified AFAA Group Instructor. The program will focus on how this beneficial exercise can improve strength and balance. During the second session on Tuesday, March 12, Kelly will explore delicious and healthful dessert options that can satisfy, but still keep you on track of wellness goals. This program will include a cooking demonstration of alternatives to traditional sweets. The final session will take place on Tuesday, March 19 with guest speaker Holly White, a Dietician from UNC Health Lenoir. Holly will provide valuable insights regarding nutrition education through a presentation and discussion.

All of these programs are free of charge. If you would like to participate in either series, please contact us at 252-568-3631 to register. If you have any questions about the Wellness for Kids, Senior Wellness Series, or library programming in general, please call the above number, email pinkhill@neuselibrary.org, or visit our website at www.neuselibrary.org. We look forward to springing into this next season with you!