Welcome to your 7th <strong>Mensana</strong> Fest... Carlow Mental Health Association introduced <strong>Mensana</strong> Fest seven years ago to raise awareness of mental health in Carlow. <strong>Mensana</strong> Fest 2016 offers people practical ways to maintain and improve their mental health and resilience. People from all walks of life are encouraged to learn, talk, reflect and engage with others on all issues relating to mental health. Maintaining good mental health in today’s hectic and stress-filled society can be a challenge. It is estimated that at least 1 in 4 Irish people experience mental health problems each year. Mental health issues indirectly affect us all at some time through a family member, friend or colleague. This year, CMHA, together with various Carlow town and county based organisations, are delighted to be offering a range of activities suitable for everyone. The Hub The Rainbow Hub is this year’s Pop-up coffee shop for <strong>Mensana</strong>. In 2016 we are taking a healthier approach to the coffee shop by introducing soup and nutritious treats (some cream cakes will still be available!!) The Rainbow Hub will open daily 10am - 5pm Mon to Sat during <strong>Mensana</strong>. Tea/Coffee: €1 | Treats: €1 Soup & bread: €2 (served from 12noon) KCLR Live – Outside Broadcast Monday 10th | 10am - 12pm (See Page 5 for details) Talking Tea Winifred Rochford, The Health Store, Carlow Monday 10th | 3pm The benefits of herbal teas for mind, body, sleep & mood. Mind Your Mental Health Linda Thorpe, Mental Health Ireland Tuesday 11th | 11am & 3pm Tips on building resilience and general wellness. Guided Meditation Wednesday 12th | 10am A 20 minute simple introduction to meditation. The Rainbow Hub Events at The Rainbow Hub.... You’re a Star. Thank You! We’d like to say a massive thank you! to all those who are supporting this year’s <strong>Mensana</strong> Fest, from the use of buildings, lending of furniture, people donating their time, down to the baking of cream cakes. This week could not happen without the generosity of Carlow businesses and people. Thank You! We haven’t unpacked our teacups and saucers so expect a more casual approach with a mug in your hand. You are still guaranteed a friendly welcome, space to take time out for yourself and lots of beneficial information on mental health. Mindfulness for Men Darren Reid Psychotherapist Wednesday 12th | 7pm Introducing men to the beneficial effects of mindfulness for positive mental health. Nutritious Nibbles Dympna Maher Thursday 13th | 3pm A short demonstration on healthy snacks to improve your mood. Sugar and the mind Amanda Hughes, Health Coach Friday 14th | 3pm How sugar can hamper your mood. Introducing you to healthier alternatives. Get Active Events Hatha Yoga Class Helen Jeffers Yoga for Wellbeing Dolmen Hotel, Kilkenny Rd, Carlow Monday 10th | 9.45 - 11.15am Contact: Helen Jeffers: 0872267086 Hatha Yoga refers to a set of physical exercises & sequences designed to align your skin, muscles, and bones. Classes are followed by a cup of coffee & a chat in the Dolmen Bar. During <strong>Mensana</strong> week we’re opening our class on Monday 10th October to the public to come in & try it out for free. Places limited to 10 & booking required. Restorative Anti-Gravity Yoga Carmel Callaghan Carlow Rehabilitation Sports Injury Clinic, Tyndall Clinic, Graiguecullen Monday 10th | 8 - 9pm Wednesday 12th | 9 -10pm Contact: Carmel Callaghan: 087 6786796 Reconnect Mind and Body by candlelight using visualisation techniques and gentle movements supported in an individual hammock. No previous yoga experience necessary – suitable for absolute beginners. Places limited to 15 - booking is ESSENTIAL (please text). Set Dancing Classes Dolmen Set Dancers Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Kilkenny Rd, Carlow Monday 10th October | 8:30 - 10:45pm Contact: Peter O’Neill: 876109728 Watch or try for free our class during <strong>Mensana</strong>. Set dancing is a fun way to exercise & meet new friends, come along & join us. No need for partners as there’s always lots of people to dance with & new members are always welcome. KickBoxing/Kicksercise - Adults Top Pro Carlow Carlow Contact Sports Club, Cox’s Lane, Carlow Monday 10th, Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th | 8 - 9pm each day Contact: Diarmuid Maher: 085 7180586 Exercise class in the form of kickboxing in a club environment. Classes to suit all ages and fitness levels. Kickboxing at Top Pro Carlow is a great opportunity to get fit, release stress while meeting new people. Indoor Triathlon Inspirit Leisure Centre Talbot Hotel, Carlow Every day. Contact: Mark Delaney: 059 9153838 Instructors will be available to record your times over 3 events Swim, Cycle and Run over these 2 days and fastest time overall wins a 1 year membership for Inspirit Leisure Centre, we will also welcome members of the public to sample the gym and classes on offer during <strong>Mensana</strong> Week – free of charge to experience the positive Mental Health benefits of physical exercise in a supportive and fun environment. Social Tennis Carlow Lawn Tennis Club Oak Park Road, Carlow Tuesday 11th & Thursday 13th | 7:30 - 8:45pm Contact: Brian Farrell: 085 7547553 An opportunity for people to try a new sport under the supervision of the coach Brian. Meet other members and have some fun. Rackets will be provided. A chance for tea and coffee and chat afterwards. All welcome. 1 Also at The Rainbow Hub: ‘Saturday Family Fun’ on Saturday 15th, 2 - 4pm (details on page 14) 2 ALL EVENTS ARE FREE & NO BOOKING REQUIRED UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED