Barbara Ruzansky, owner of West Hartford Yoga, marked the release of her memoir, ‘Bad Day on Planet Earth,’ with a book signing and discussion.

BHD book release at WHY. Courtesy photo

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On Saturday, March 4, a curious community gathered at West Hartford Yoga for the release of owner Barbara Ruzansky’s memoir, “Bad Hair Day on Planet Earth.”

The free event featured several readings from the book, a thoughtful discussion on mental illness with panel members Kristen Wold and Dr. Gillian Galen, a book signing, and a brief introduction to the unique process of how the multidimensional book came to be.

“Bad Hair Day on Planet Earth” is a book that provides a raw, unadulterated view into mental illness and the messy journey through recovery. A trove of found objects (journals, date books, photographs, artwork, letters) were curated into a story told in real time with minimal reliance on memory or the wisdom of a present-day narrator. It is part of a greater mission by the BHD Project, an all-woman team whose vision is to breakdown stigmas surrounding mental illness and create a culture of understanding and acceptance.

The BHD Project team. Courtesy photo

There was a mixture of emotions evoked by the words of each presenter as well as during the author’s reading – from empathy and sadness, surprise and laughter, to deep reflection. The panel discussion was interwoven with poignant questions about mental illness and recovery alongside more personal inquiries focused specifically on Barbara’s non-linear healing journey from her decades of eating disorders, depression, grief, and addiction.

Delicious food at the event was provided by Teresa Preziosi, with scrumptious treats donated by Hartford Baking Company.

“Bad Hair Day on Planet Earth” is currently available at West Hartford Yoga, and will soon be available via the BHD website, bhdproject.com, and other online platforms.

BHD Found Objects. Courtesy photo

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