Kia ora. To encourage the use of Te Reo Māori Te Taura Whiri i Te Reo Māori – The Māori Language Commission publish weekly Māori phrases that can be used to support or cheer someone on.
Whiua te pōro!
Throw the ball!
Interior of Terminus Convenience Store, 134 Opawa Road, sometime between April 1986 and April 1989. Italian owner behind counter.
Christchurch City Libraries has been running an annual Photo Hunt in conjunction with the city’s Heritage Week since 2008. The 2016 Photo Hunt is running again from 1 – 31 October. During the month of October we will be posting a series of images from earlier Photo Hunts.
Enter the 2016 hunt online or at your local library.
Kete Christchurch is a collection of photographs and stories about Christchurch & Canterbury, past and present. Anyone can join and contribute.
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week
1 in 5 New Zealanders are diagnosed with a mental illness, including myself, meaning every New Zealander comes into contact with someone who is affected. That is why I feel it’s very important that we talk about and discuss mental illness, breaking down stereotypes, stigmas and barriers.
The focus for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is Connect with Nature for Good Mental Health and Wellbeing.
“Research has shown that spending time in nature is great for mental and physical health. Evidence proves it makes us happier, decreases feelings of depression and anxiety, improves concentration, buffers against stress, makes our lives meaningful and reduces health inequalities related to poverty.”
As part of a Mental Health Awareness Week there is a “lockout” organised for lunchtime today. We’re all encourage to get outside, rain or shine, and into the fresh air.
Being in nature helps me unwind, relax and practice mindfulness, which is still something I am working on.
I’m lucky to work for Christchurch City Libraries and to be surrounded by excellent resources. There are some other fantastic resources out there. Here are some of my favourites:
Taming the Black Dog: a Guide to Overcoming Depression, Bev Aisbett
A witty and simple guide. You can have a laugh while also getting helpful tips to managing depression.
The Mindfulness Toolbox, Don Altman
Although this is intended for mental health practitioners it is full of practical, achievable activities for those using self help. I love that I can choose and print out one of the over 40 handouts and work through it at my own pace.
Why Can’t I Stop? Reclaiming your Life From a Behavioral Addiction, Jon E. Grant
An interesting look at behavioural addiction’s (gambling, internet, OCD etc). Offering insight and helpful advice.
Reading in Mind Book Scheme, of which the Christchurch City Libraries is a proud partner.
The scheme recommends books, eAudiobooks, eBooks or DVDs about a wide range of mental health issues. The books are selected with the advice of mental health professionals and the Mental Health Foundation of NZ.
Tania
Outreach & Learning Team
Christchurch City Libraries Blog 