DYNAMIC DUO. Christine Varnavas (left) and Tracy Chipman (right) are hosting a book reading at The Local Store on Oct. 26. (Submitted photos)

Two local authors, Christine Varnavas and Tracy Chipman, are hosting a book reading that will also involve open discussions on grief, trauma, and healing. 

The women will read from their latest published books: Varnavas’ Heal Your Sh*t. Find Your Happy  and Chipman’s Borealis Mundi - Resting in Place, Loss & Grace – from 7-8:30pm on Thursday, Oct. 26, at The Local Store (205 N. Dewey St.)

Varnavas and Chipman originally met when they both worked with a peer support organization in Menomonie called Milkweed. After losing touch for a while, the two reconnected after seeing articles about each other’s new books in the same Volume One issue. Given both of their backgrounds in mental health and embodiment practices – Varnavas is a TRE trainer and Chipman is a yoga instructor – they decided to hold a reading together.

This isn’t your average book reading, though, as the duo has plans to incorporate mild bodywork into the evening, such as deep breathing, rubbing hands together, and just being in tune with your body. Afterward, they will share a little background on their healing journeys, and open up a discussion within the group about what healing looks like to each person.

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What I think I like most about this event is that it’s going to be educational, informative, and entertaining but also experiential.

christine varnavas

author

“What I think I like most about this event is that it’s going to be educational, informative, and entertaining but also experiential,” Varnavas said.

“Our intention and our hope is that folks will leave thinking and reflecting on what they need and hopefully we can have even some resources available for them, too,” Chipman added.

Then the two will read snippets of their books to the group, leaving time at the end for questions and discussions. This is a completely free event, but both authors will have copies of their books available to purchase. If that isn’t enough, there will be free snacks for participants.

“I hope people just walk away and find something meaningful from hearing a bit of Christine’s story through her reading and a bit of my story and that perhaps that will encourage them to share their story,” Chipman said. “When any human can feel comfortable enough and have the safety to start to share their story, it’s really powerful and transformational.”

Learn more about Christine Varnavas at christinevarnavas.com and Tracy Chipman at tracychipman.net.