Cynthia Gallaher

Cynthia Gallaher is a Chicago-based poet and nonfiction writer with four full collections of poetry, "Epicurean Ecstasy: More Poems About Food, Drink, Herbs & Spices;" "Earth Elegance;" "Swimmer's Prayer" and "Night Ribbons," and three poetry chapbooks, including "Omnivore Odes: Poems About Food, Herbs & Spices," and "Drenched" poems about liquids. Her nonfiction book, "Frugal Poets' Guide to Life: How to Live a Poetic Life, Even If You Aren't a Poet," is a reference, personal journey, life-coaching and creativity guide, which won a National Indie Excellence Award. Most recently, one of her poems will be sent on NASA's flight to the south pole of the moon later this decade.

She is also a certified yoga instructor and certified aromatherapist.

Gallaher has been honored by the Chicago Public Library, the Illinois State Library, Today's Chicago Woman magazine, and the Illinois Center for the Book. She is the recipient of numerous CAAP and NAP grants for poetry and theater from the City of Chicago and the Illinois Arts Council.

Besides writing, Gallaher is interested in aromatherapy, medicinal herbs, natural foods, swimming, yoga, beading, strength training, Christian meditation and contemplation, European jazz and cooking.