Priscilla Warner, author of "Learning to Breathe," will speak at the library on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 7.

Warner grew up in Providence, R.I., and raised her two sons in Westchester County, where she lives with her husband. Before writing Learning to Breathe, Warner co-authored the New York Times best-selling book "The Faith Club." Her new book chronicles her journey to find her "inner monk" in an effort to curtail the anxiety and panic attacks she had suffered for more than 40 years.

Warner's attacks were often so debilitating that they left her unable to breathe, so when she read about Tibetan monks who meditated so effectively they were actually able to change their brains, she wanted to learn how. Warner writes of the journey with wit, as she meditated in malls, rather than monasteries, eventually becoming a monk in a minivan.

The book has received wide acclaim from a variety of critics and media personalities, including Meredith Vieira, who said, ""I have always considered Priscilla Warner a dear friend. But after reading her book, I realize she is also a great teacher. When I finished Priscilla's book, a smile washed over my face and I let out a sigh. I promise you will do the same."

A book signing and reception will follow the presentation. Books will be available for purchase at the event.

This Meet the Author event is part of the Library's "Winter Wellness" health and wellness series, which will provide patrons with a variety of lectures, expert panels, workshops, film screening and fitness exercises designed to help get healthy, organized and active. For the complete list of programs and activities that will take place throughout the series, visit http://www.darienlibrary.org/2011/11/22/health-wellness-series-winter-2012.

More info: 203-655-1234, DarienLibrary.org, additional evening and weekend parking is on Thorndal Circle behind Nielsen's