Meditation isn't just for Buddhists anymore—it’s a growing practice that's been proven to reduce stress, anxiety and tension. Some studies have shown that regular practitioners experience a 33-percent decrease in incidence of stroke, a 50-percent decrease in cancer rates and up to 80-percent reduced rates of heart disease—America’s number-one killer of both men and women. Meditation can improve one’s ability to let go of the small stuff—to not “sweat it.” Join meditation teacher and author Tobin Blake for two “how to meditate” sessions in November as part of the Library’s “Know Sweat” month of activities. Both presentations—one at the Sunriver Library and another at the Downtown Bend Library—are free and open to the public; no registration is required.

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 • 5:00 p.m.
Sunriver Library

Saturday, November 16, 2013 • 2:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library

“Meditation is easy to learn,” says Blake. It can be practiced by anyone, regardless of personal religious or spiritual beliefs. “The idea is to quiet the mind and turn inward, away from the physical world. Generally the experiences felt during meditation are mild and peaceful.”

Tobin Blake is the author of Everyday Meditation: 100 Daily Meditations for Health, Stress Relief and Everyday Joy, which was chosen by Conversations Magazine as one of the top 25 books of 2012 that every man must read; and The Power of Stillness, a One Spirit Book Club selection for readers. He received his formal training in meditation and Kriya Yoga through the Self-Realization Fellowship organization.

For more information about this or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Tina at 541-312-1034.