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Glade Spring Library schedules healthy living classes – Southwest Virginia Today

Posted: August 9, 2017 at 10:43 am

GLADE SPRING, Va. The role of libraries is changing, and so are the resources it has to offer.

Thats why Tonia Kestner, librarian at Glade Spring Library, never hesitated to host a series of classes thats a little different from most programs offered at the library.

A Healthy Living Series that runs through December will feature information on healthy eating, smart shopping, yoga, meditation, the importance of eating fruits and vegetables, managing stress and food safety.

Each class, free of charge and open to both children and adults, will be held at 6 p.m. at the Glade Spring Library.

Why not offer programs like this at the library? asked Kestner.

The library is about offering programs that are beneficial to the community, and this series features many helpful lessons. I hope this will make everyday life better for our patrons, she said.

People tend to be on the go more in the spring and summer, so this fall series comes along at a time when schedules slow down and so do our outdoor activities.

Classes will be taught by Kay Ogle, a licensed clinical social worker who has an avid interest in health and wellness, and Andrea Wann, nutrition educator for the Family Nutrition Program at the Virginia Cooperative Extension in Abingdon.

According to Wann, the class series is very relevant due to the high risk for obesity, heart disease and stroke found in Southwest Virginia as well as other southern states.

I want people to look at nutrition in a different way, said Wann. It can carry a strong stigma, but we have that power to take charge of your health and make changes for the better, not just for weight loss but to feel better.

Wann said its possible to eat healthy on a budget. I will show participants that they can feed a family of four within budget and have very healthy options on the table. Local farmers markets are a good place to start for finding fresh fruits and vegetables.

The following classes will be offered at the library.

Nutrition for Healthy Living will be led by Ogle on Aug. 31. Ogle will talk about appropriate nutrition for healthy living.

Shop for Value, taught by Wann, is Sept. 12. Wann explains why its important to read food labels while shopping for groceries. She will lead a discussion about the importance of fibers, fats, protein, vitamins and minerals in our diets. Snacks will be provided.

A Yoga class is Sept. 28 when Ogle presents a demonstration on yoga techniques. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing.

A Fruits & Vegetables class on Oct. 10 will focus on the importance of eating fruits and vegetables, which add vitamins and minerals to our diets. Wann will teach how eating different varieties and colors can encourage good health. Participants will learn how much is needed every day and different ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables in the daily diet. Participants will have the opportunity to taste test a smoothie made with fruits and vegetables.

Meditation can benefit overall health. Ogle will present a workshop on Oct. 26 that teaches participants how to relax.

Whats for Dinner is Nov. 14. Wann will show participants different ways to prepare healthy meals that are delicious, full of variety, and within budget. According to Wann, preparing meals ahead can save time and money, and reduce stress and food waste.

A class on Stress Management is Nov. 30 when Ogle offers suggestions on the benefits of managing stress.

Fix It Safely, the final class in the series, is Dec. 12. Wann will discuss common food borne illnesses and how to prevent them.

No registration is required to attend the classes. To learn more, contact the Glade Spring Library at (276) 429-5626.

Carolyn R. Wilson is a freelance writer in Glade Spring, Virginia. Contact her at news@washconews.com.

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Glade Spring Library schedules healthy living classes - Southwest Virginia Today


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