Self-Care Awareness

National Self-Care Day is observed every year on April 5 all across the U.S. In the hustle and bustle of life, we sometimes put our needs and well-being on the back burner. Taking care of one’s self is integral to functioning properly. Our minds and bodies require adequate rest and care for optimal health and well-being. This day emphasizes the importance of self-care as the basis for good health. It’s also a day when individuals are encouraged to prioritize self-care and make it a habit.

Looking for ideas on what to read? 

Check out these self-care recommendations for adults, teens, and children selected by Milwaukee Public Library librarians.

1.) Self Care Resources

MPL Freegal Music Playlists:

• Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
• Browser's Mood Boost
• Chill Instrumentals
• Meditate & Relax

Freegal Music is a Library subscription. Available for use within City of Milwaukee libraries and by remote access to City of Milwaukee library cardholders.

Check out our Self-Care Blog post for additional resources! 

2.) Stretch, Breathe, Move

Aurora Mobile Clinics

Aurora Mobile Health provides free health services at the Milwaukee Central Library, Center Street, and Villard Square Branches. Services are provided at no cost.

Services available include:

• Consultation with a nurse practitioner (immediate care needs, medication review, one-on-one education, and goal setting)
• Consultation with a nurse practitioner for children, a guardian must be present (immediate needs, health questions, review milestones and safety)
• Health Screenings (blood pressure, blood sugar, depression, anxiety)
• Care Navigation and Referrals (connection to a medical home, behavioral health referrals, community resource referrals)

Milwaukee Central Library - Mozart's Grove
Wednesdays, bi-weekly from 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
April 3, April 17, May 1, May 15

Center Street Branch - Community Room
Tuesdays, bi-weekly from 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
April 9, April 23, May 7, May 21

Villard Square Branch 
Fridays, bi-weekly from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
April 12, April 26, May 10, May 24

DIY: Bicycle Repair at the Washington Park Branch

Saturday, April 13, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Register Here

Fix a bicycle flat tire. A skilled mechanic from the Wisconsin Bike Fed will show you how. This is a hands-on program. All tools and supplies will be provided. You are welcome to bring in a bike flat tire, but it is not necessary. Registration is required.

Saturday, April 20, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Register Here

Give your bike a tune-up and keep it in good shape. Anthony Rafael Casagrande, lead mechanic for the Wisconsin Bike Fed, will show you how to get your bike ready for the season and keep it in good working order. Please bring your bike if possible. Registration is required.

Gentle Chair Yoga

This introduction to yoga will focus on low-impact standing and chair-assisted poses. Instructor DeWitt Clinton will guide a 60-minute gentle yoga session. Please wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. Chairs will be provided. This class is accessible for all ability levels; no props are needed, including mats. Upon arrival, participants will be asked to sign a physical activity waiver.

Registration is encouraged; please call 414.286.3011 or register online at mpl.org/calendar. Funded by a gift from the estate of Naomi B. Strehlow.

Stepping Out Walking Club

Washington Park Branch
Every Wednesday (beginning April 3, 2024), 10:15-11:15 a.m.

Join us for a weekly walk through beautiful Washington Park. Get exercise, enjoy the company of others, and experience the wonders of nature in this sprawling neighborhood park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.

Yoga for Beginners

Bay View Branch
Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m.
April 3, 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 26

This introductory class utilizes a slow and gentle approach suitable for newcomers and those experienced in Yoga. Participants are asked to:

• possess mobility to sit, lie, kneel, and stand,
• wear loose-fitting clothing and bring their own Yoga mat, towel, and water container,
• sign a physical activity waiver.

3.) Connecting Mind, Body, and Heart

Paws to Read

Read to a cuddly canine! Young readers will practice reading aloud to improve their reading fluency with a certified therapy dog.

Atkinson Branch
Mondays, 4-5 p.m. | April 8, May 13

Capitol Branch
Mondays, 4-5 p.m. | April 1, May 6

Good Hope Branch
Mondays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. | April 1, May 6
Thursday 4:30-5:30 p.m. | April 18

Paws and Relax

Teens are invited to decompress after a stressful day with a certified therapy dog.

Center Street Branch
Mondays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. | April 15, May 13

4.) Visit a Makerspace

Find a Makersapce at these locations:

Good Hope Branch
7715 W. Good Hope Rd.

Mitchell Street Branch
906 W. Historic Mitchell St.

Washington Park Branch
2121 N. Sherman Blvd.

Makerspace Facilitators and Teen Interns will help you engage with the space and all it offers.

Book an appointment to use Makerspace equipment outside of Open Maker Time.  Come to a scheduled event in the Makerspaces.  All are welcome! Visit mpl.org/makerspace to learn more. 

5.) We (including Browser) Care About you at MPL