The State Library of Victoria has launched a new bibliotherapy podcast, aimed at bringing the world of books and wellness together.
The Library said the series of nine episodes, Bibliotherapy with State Library Victoria, used short stories and poetry to encourage listeners to reflect on and process their own experiences through guided questions.
“Using the healing power of literature to explore thoughts and feelings and inspire deeper thinking, Bibliotherapy with State Library Victoria will also offer practical wellbeing strategies to navigate the complexities of everyday life in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Library said.
Resident bibliotherapy expert at the Library, Susan McLaine said the series would help guide listeners through a particularly difficult time.
“At a time when we are all feeling additional layers of stress, coupled with isolation from friends, family and our communities, it’s crucial that we give ourselves the space to process emotions and engage in activities that allow us to pause, reflect and process what’s going on in the world,” Ms McLaine said.
“Bibliotherapy is the perfect tool for that, as it gives us a way to explore our thoughts and feelings using the words of others as a springboard,” she said.
“When we find the written words that articulate how we’re feeling in ways we can’t always express, it validates our feelings and gives us the sense that we are not alone.”
She said the podcast encouraged listeners to delve into their own experiences as they moved through the written works of each episode, finding that sense of connection within themselves and the characters.
Ms McLaine said researchers had found that bibliotherapy could reduce stress levels, improve mood, stimulate creativity, release tension and increase empathy.
She said the first episode was now available and new episodes would launch at11am every Saturday.
Bibliotherapy with State Library Victoria can be accessed at this PS News link.
