Read to Relax is a new kind of weekly reading group that brings people together – in a relaxed and social atmosphere – to read, have a cup of tea and chat. The main difference is that in the Read to Relax groups you are read to, so it is your choice whether you want to read along or just sit back and listen. There is no requirement for everyone to read aloud.
The groups meet weekly, rather than monthly which quickly builds a feeling of friendship between group members. The reading fosters debate and discussion while refreshments help further the relaxed, informal social aspects of the group. As groups read not just novels but also short stories and poems, it doesn’t matter if you cannot attend every week.
Reading aloud – and being read to – involves people more with the stories they are reading, it takes it off the page and encourages discussion. It also increases accessibility for those with low or no reading skills. Read to Relax members have reported finding a new interest in reading, feeling more confident and generally having a better sense of wellbeing. The groups have also inspired some members to write themselves and others to read aloud for the first time ever. Research shows that reading for just 6 minutes reduces stress by two-thirds. Reading also reduces the risk of dementia by 35%. The groups are a way of reducing loneliness and isolation.
Please contact individual library for further details https://livewirewarrington.co.uk/events/