This article is from page 66 of the 2006-10-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 66 JPG
HEALTH professionals and volunteers around Clare are busy preparing for a week of workshops, seminars and classes in aid of Mental Health Week.
The theme of the this year’s Mental Health Week according to Catriona Burke, a PR volunteer for the Kilrush Mental Health Association is mindfulness and the aim of the events being held around Clare is to promote the link between physical and mental health.
“Mindfulness is about teaching us how to pay attention to our experiences in life in the present moment. Whether we’re sitting in a car, struggling to meet some deadline, or facing some difficult challenge in our lives, mindfulness teaches us a way of being present to wherever we are and and to deal with it,” said Catriona.
Activities are taking place in venues around Limerick City, Tipperary and Clare where some high profile people are giving classes, seminars and workshops.
In Ennis, a series of laughter workshop and laughter yoga parties will be held at the Templegate Hotel from Monday, October 9.
Elsewhere in the county, a walk has been organised in the Burren with Dr Pat Wallace; a music workshop will be run by Archie Simpson and the Lismorahaun Singers at the Falls Hotel in Ennistymon and in Lisdoonvarna, an evening of poetry and reflection will take place at The Spa Wells.
In Kilrush, a series of workshops are being held throughout the week in Kilrush Library and an exhibition of art by local artists and people who have benefited from the services of Kilrush Mental Health Association will be on display at the library from October 9 to 13.
“The week has been designed to allow people to experience the wonder of mindfulness for themselves in a gentle and non-threatening way. We are trying to breakdown the barriers on what people think of mental health. Mental health is a wealth if we mind it,” she added.
We are constantly looking for volunteers to help us push forward the connection between the community and mental health. We will welcome anyone who would like to help the service.”