welcome to december at tranquil space   this month's e-news contains: studio happenings seasonal specials enlightening events asana, yogi, & tranquiliTeam player of the month tranquiliT boutique reflective closing thoughts

· visit tranquilspace.com   · current class schedule

studio happenings

• Tranquil Space raised $500 on Thursday, November 27 at our Thanksgiving Pre-Tofurkey yoga class for So Others Might Eat. Thank you for joining us and supporting our charity community!

'Tis the Season at Tranquil Space! Join us for our 4th annual holiday party Sunday, December 14, at 7 - 9:30 p.m. at the Blue Room. The event will feature the release of Kimberly's second cd — a beginner level vinyasa practice, on sale for $15 this night only. Share in a delightful evening filled with vegetarian hors d'oeuvres, holiday cheer, treats for all, and a chance to mingle with your fellow yogis. Bring a canned food item to go to Capital Area Food Bank or a $5 donation for Bread for the City. Let's enjoy the practice of karma yoga during our celebration. We look forward to celebrating the season with you!

• Holiday schedule is available online. We are open throughout the holidays but operating on a reduced schedule so please take note of the offered class times.
• Give the gift of yoga or massage this holiday season. Visit our gift certificate page for Tranquil Space yoga gift certificates, our recommended resources page for fabulous book and cd recommendations, and our massage page to share a massage with a loved one.
• Winter schedule! We have 42 weekly yoga classes. Any interest in a 9 a.m. Saturday Yoga 2 or any other specific class time in 2004? Let us know at info@tranquilspace.com.
• Class price increase. Effective January 1, 2004, drop-ins at the studio will increase to $16 and class passes by approximately $1 each. Tranquil Space has not increased its fees in over 3 years, since the studio began in Kimberly's living room. We appreciate your understanding, as our expenses have risen extensively since our earlier days. Please take this into consideration when purchasing passes in December as you'll have all month to get the current rate. Visit our updated class pricing list to view our 2004 rates.
• 3 for $33. A wonderful gift idea for someone new to Tranquil Space!
• Interested in assisting at the holiday celebration or through outreach? Visit studio opportunities for our current openings.
• Series of the month! Visit www.tranquilspace.com/office_vinyasa.html for an "at your desk" vinyasa by Leigh Ann Simmons. A great way to relieve stress at the office!
• CD donations. Kimberly is looking for a few charities who would benefit from the donation of copies of her latest cd to introduce yoga to populations that may not otherwise practice yoga. If you have any suggestions, please contact her at kimberly@tranquilspace.com.
• Newbie Yogi Series coming again on Saturdays and Sundays in January! A 4-week series catered to the developing, inquisitive yogi. Visit the newbie yogi series page for details!
• Prenatal time change in 2004. Join Anne in the new year at a new time! Beginning Saturday, Jan. 3, 2004, prenatal yoga will be held in the sky studio from 12:15 - 1:30 instead of 4:30 - 5:45.
• Refer a friend
who buys a pass and receive a free class! Have your friend fill out a referral card with your name on it and hand it to the studio assistant when purchasing their class pass. Valid only for first-time pass purchases.
• Class sizes. Please check our new class times to accommodate your schedule, as many classes are still quite small and intimate. We've noted class sizes of less than 10 in pink on the website.
• Yogi Babies online! Share your photos of your beloved babies with us and let us welcome them into the community. Send photos and names to info@tranquilspace.com.
• Community Bulletin Board in the Tea Lounge. Let your fellow yogis know about your cooking classes, dog walking services, or need for a roommate by posting notices on our board. Please obtain management approval prior to posting.
• Massage at Tranquil Space! We are pleased to offer a complement to your yoga practice. Visit www.tranquilspace.com/massage.html for details. Gift certificates available.
• Private Sessions are available at the studio. Please visit www.tranquilspace.com/private_sessions_and_parties.html for more details.
• Create a Tranquil Space at your office or next event! Tranquil Space offers yoga parties for any special occasion, series of classes at your office and office yoga workshops! For more information, please contact yogaoutreach@tranquilspace.com.
• Please familiarize yourself with studio tips.
• Please arrive 15 minutes early to guarantee your space as select classes may fill quickly.
• Share your thoughts: We have placed a suggestions box in the swirlie hallway which awaits any comments, praise or requests our yogis may have. Or please fill out this studio survey. View our comment corner to read our replies. Thank you for sharing!
• Community celebration: A way to celebrate Tranquil Space yogis' honors and developments!
Please share your recent news with us by e-mailing newsletter@tranquilspace.com.
• Freya Grand (and her three studio mates) will be having a Studio Open House for the holidays, on both Saturday, December 13th and Sunday, December 14th, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. The address is 1413 17th Street, NW. The artists will be welcoming visitors in their studios. There will be lots of artwork (many small pieces), and refreshments. A number of you have expressed an interest in knowing when you could see Freya's work, and this is the opportunity!
• A very special welcome to Beth Pettingell as a new weekend studio manager.
• Happy Birthday to our December yogis!
• Congratulations to Alison Lemon on her recent engagement.
• Congratulations to our Saturday newbie graduates: Amy, Jennifer, Rebecca, Elayne, Scott, Monika, Brad, Monna, Stacey, and Portia.
• Please share photos of you wearing tranquiliT tees off the beaten path. This month's features are Heather Clagett at Nevada Falls on the way up to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, Jeff Davis at the Holy Mother Buddhist temple in Tainan, Taiwan, and Shelia and Laura Cohn in London. Send photos to newsletter@tranquilspace.com.

seasonal specials

• give the gift of yoga:
  3 for $33 gift certificate (first timers only)
• stocking stuffer special:
  buy a bottle of lavender aromatherapy spray, a silk eye pillow, and 3 soap rolls for $22
• newbie yogi holiday special:
  buy vinyasa yoga for the newbie yogi cd, a mat, and a tranquiliT tee for $55
• seasoned yogi special:
  buy a 10-class pass, intermediate vinyasa yoga cd, and a tranquiliT tee for $150

specials valid through december 31, 2003

enlightening events

postnatal yoga 3-week series
Learn how yoga can support and empower you during your journey as a new mother!

Join Carol Collins and her 12-week-old baby! For 3 Saturdays in December, learn yoga postures that relieve neck and back discomfort while at the same time bonding with your baby. Discover ways to work yoga into your every day with your new baby through breathing, meditation, vinyasa flows, and abdominal strengthening. This is also a great way to meet other moms! Bring your baby or come alone. Babies not yet crawling are welcome.

Open to women in all stages of post-pregnancy. No previous yoga experience necessary.

Drop-ins are also welcome, for $25 per session.

	Dates:	Saturday, December 6 (from 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)    Saturday, December 13 (from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.)    Saturday, December 20 (from 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)
	Time:	11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (on December 6 and 20)    10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (on December 13)
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$75, $65 if pre-registered    drop-ins are also welcome, for $25 per session
	Questions?:	Email: postnatalprogram@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for Postnatal Yoga Series
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

heart opening vinyasa practice
In this workshop with Leigh Ann explore postures that open the chest and heart center, while releasing tightness in the neck, shoulders, and upper back often caused by working long hours over a desk or on a computer. We will begin the practice with a series of seated and standing postures designed to awaken and warm the body. We will then explore postures that release and open the neck, shoulders, and spine. Finally, we will focus on postures that lift and open the throat, chest and heart center. Ideas for yoga that can be practiced right at your desk will be included. You will leave feeling relaxed, open, and rejuvenated, with tools for releasing stress and tension throughout the workday.

	Date:	Saturday, December 6
	Time:	1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

organic flow
a celebration of yoga, movement and music
Join Lisa for this 2-hour workshop as we celebrate our bodies' freedom through intuitive yoga and dance. Move through sequenced and un-sequenced yoga and dance while listening to world music. Come prepared for an intuitive and a high energy practice as we release our bodies and minds before the busy holiday season.

	Date:	Saturday, December 6
	Time:	6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

awakening the body's core
Abdominal muscles help support the body’s posture, assist in healthy breathing and support the lower back. Join Lisa on Dec. 7 for an afternoon vinyasa practice devoted to this powerful area of the body. Emphasis will be placed on identifying and strengthening the "power center." Learn the fundamentals of uddiyana bandha and how the core serves your asana practice.

	Date:	Sunday, December 7
	Time:	12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

newbie yogi
A workshop for introducing the basics of vinyasa yoga. Explore alignment and breathing along with basic poses and relaxation techniques. Geared for the brand new beginner or those with curiosity about yoga. Please bring your own mat if you have one, a water bottle, hand towel and any questions you have.

	Dates:	Monthly:    Saturday, December 13
	Time:	12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for December 13 Newbie Yogi:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

tranquil space holiday celebration
Join Tranquil Space yoga off the mat for our 4th annual holiday party and release of Kimberly's second cd, a beginning-level practice. The cd will be on sale for $15 this night only. Share in a delightful evening filled with vegetarian hors d'oeuvres, holiday cheer, treats for all, and a chance to mingle with your fellow yogis. Bring a canned food item to go to Capital Area Food Bank or a $5 donation to go to Bread for the City. Let's enjoy the practice of karma yoga during our celebration. We look forward to celebrating the season with you! Dress is festive attire.

	Date:	Sunday, December 14
	Time:	7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
	Location:	Blue Room, 2321 18th street, nw
	Cost:	$5 charity donation or canned food item
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com

setting your intentions: guided meditation
Take the time to welcome the New Year in a special workshop designed to guide you to a place of readiness for the year to come. Jessica Cerullo will lead a 2-hour workshop consisting of pranayama, guided meditation and yoga. Using images and your imagination you will learn to relax the body, quiet the mind and find the ease within to take you on a journey toward the possibilities waiting for you in the months to come. Appropriate for all yoga levels.

	Date:	Thursday, January 1, 2004
	Time:	12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered    or $55 for both new year's workshops
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for Setting Your Intentions: Guided Meditation:
	OR Register Online for BOTH new year's workshops:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

setting your intentions: unleash the flow
This workshop with Kimberly will be set to motivating music and include an intermediate practice geared to opening up your potential in the New Year. The notion of living your life to its fullest will be woven throughout your practice and followed with a restorative shavasana. Bring an energized and eager soul ready to unleash all your creativity in 2004!

	Date:	Thursday, January 1, 2004
	Time:	3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered    or $55 for both new year's workshops
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for Setting Your Intentions: Unleash the Flow:
	OR Register Online for BOTH new year's workshops:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

peace in the new year
"Lead me from death to life, from falsehood to truth. Lead me from despair to hope,
From fear to truth. Lead me from hate to love, From war to peace.
Let peace fill our hearts, Our world our universe
Peace Peace Peace"
— Mother Teresa

There are many ways to develop the yoga tenet of non-violence, ahimsa, in our daily lives. Let this workshop with Peg Armstrong be a reminder and a jumping off point to deepen the sense of serenity and peace you carry with you as you touch the lives of those around you. Join us for an interactive workshop focused on finding a sense of peace within through yoga, mediation, journal writing and setting your intentions "off the mat" in the new year.

	Date:	Saturday, January 3, 2004
	Time:	2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

newbie yogi 4-week series
Tranquil Space is pleased to begin offering a 4-week series of yoga classes designed especially for complete beginners. This Newbie Series, with Gina Davis is an excellent, structured way of getting to know the basics of vinyasa flow yoga. Click here for details!

	Dates:	Sunday, January 4    Sunday, January 11    Sunday, January 18    Sunday, January 25
	Time:	10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$100, $90 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: newbieprogram@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for Jan. 4 - Jan. 25 series
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

newbie yogi 4-week series
Tranquil Space is pleased to begin offering a 4-week series of yoga classes designed especially for complete beginners. This Newbie Series, with Siobhan Troy is an excellent, structured way of getting to know the basics of vinyasa flow yoga. Click here for details!

	Dates:	Saturday, January 10    Saturday, January 17    Saturday, January 24    Saturday, January 31
	Time:	10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$100, $90 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: newbieprogram@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for Jan. 10 - Jan. 31 series
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

newbie yogi workshop
A 2-hour workshop for introducing the basics of vinyasa yoga. Explore alignment and breathing along with basic poses and relaxation techniques. Geared for the brand new beginner or those curious about yoga. Please bring your own mat if you have one, a water bottle, hand towel and any questions you have.

	Dates:	Newbie Yogi Workshops in 2004:    Sunday, January 11    Sunday, February 8    Sunday, April 18    Sunday, June 13    Sunday, August 8    Sunday, October 17    Sunday, December 5
	Time:	12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	Register Online for January 11 Newbie Yogi:
	Register Online for February 8 Newbie Yogi:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

deepening your practice: standing poses
Join Andrea Franchini for an afternoon breaking down the alignment and details of various standing poses. After spending time with each pose we will enjoy the sensations of integrating them into a flowing vinyasa practice. Great for yogis of all levels interested in strengthening their standing flow.

	Date:	Sunday, January 11
	Time:	3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

women's creativity circle
Are you a writer, painter, dancer, musician . . . artist? Do you want to consciously create your life in 2004? Then join the Spring cluster at Tranquil Space reading Julia Cameron's best-selling book The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. We'll meet every other week beginning Sunday, February 1 through April 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Although you may be a working artist, you are definitely welcome if you gave up on your art, or currently struggle with a block that keeps you from doing the work you love, or you have no idea what your art is. The conscious creation of our life is art!

Your fee includes a workbook and course materials. Your facilitator, Carole Sargent, Ph.D. took this workshop series from Kimberly Wilson three years ago and has gone on to start her own business, A Word in Time, has taught English literature and writing for publication at Georgetown University, and is the author of two books. View testimonials from previous participants.

	Dates:	Sunday, February 1    Sunday, February 15    Sunday, February 29    Sunday, March 14    Sunday, March 28    Sunday, April 11    Sunday, April 25
	Time:	5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$295
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

celebrate yoga in costa rica Allow lush Costa Rica to renew your spirit while escaping the chill of winter in DC! Join Kimberly for a yoga retreat nestled among the beauty of an exquisite mountain sanctuary. Each day we will share in the experience of yoga while resting our hearts & minds among the spectacular views. During your yoga breaks, take a stroll through coffee farms, nap in a hammock, swim, recieve a healing massage or simply enjoy being among the beauty of this amazing country. The spacious grounds include a hot tub, swimming pool, & luxurious gardens. A divine way to nurture your spirit over President's Day weekend. Open to all levels. Airfare is not included. Your fee includes 7 nights accommodations, 3 gourmet meals per day, transportation to & from the airport &, 3 eco-adventure excursions including a full day of white water rafting! Date:    Saturday, February 14 - Saturday, February 21, 2004 Time:    A full week of yoga & nature Location:    Pura Vida Spa, Costa Rica Cost:    Begins at $1225 Questions?:    Contact Jennifer at 888-515-4580 To Register:    Contact Jennifer at 888-515-4580

challenging yourself off the yoga mat
In yoga, we are constantly striving to deepen our practice; to grow by pushing ourselves to be uncomfortable as we work to improve strength, flexibility, mental focus, and a sense of relaxation during our asana practice. This requires courage. Personal growth requires the same type of work. It means being willing to be uncomfortable emotionally and to intentionally create opportunities to stretch ourselves metaphorically. In order to do this, we must reflect on our lives, identify issues that hold us back, and take the necessary steps to move forward. Join Peg Armstrong for an interactive workshop focused on challenging yourself off the yoga mat.

	Date:	Saturday, February 21, 2004
	Time:	2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$35, $30 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

massage for couples or friends
This workshop, with Eduardo Cortina, CMT, will introduce a variety of massage techniques for your partner or friend. We will cover basic Swedish technique, trigger points, Reiki, and some deep tissue and bodywork techniques. Eduardo teaches T'ai Chi, is a certified MT and Alexander Technique Teacher, Craniosacral Therapist, and a level III Reiki practitioner. Please bring shorts for men, and two piece bathing suit for women or equivalent. We will provide tables and cushions, oil or cream, and sheets for draping. Each partner will receive a one hour massage from their partner during the workshop.
Workshop limited to 5 pairs only so please register early.

	Date:	Sunday, February 22
	Time:	12:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$150 per couple or pair
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online:
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

the yogi and the pen
Join Laura Zam for this workshop that builds a bridge between creative writing and asana. Designed for writers and non-writers alike, the workshop explores the body as a map of our deepest experiences, a remarkable source of inspiration, and a tool for accessing a creative flow that can be translated into language. Poetry, memoir, free writing, short story, and even performance will all be a part of this workshop. As we will move back and forth between physical and verbal modes, please wear appropriate yoga clothing. Open to all levels of yoga students. No prior writing experience necessary. Just bring a mat*, a pen, a journal and a curious mind.

(*Mats can also be rented from the studio for a small fee.)

	Date:	Sunday, February 29, 2004
	Time:	12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
	Location:	2024 p street, nw
	Cost:	$50, $45 if pre-registered
	Questions?:	Email: events@tranquilspace.com
	Cancellation Policy:	enlightening events cancellation policy
	To Register by Mail:	Registration Form
	To Register by Phone:	Please call 202.223.yoga
	To Register Online
		(In the "optional instructions" box on the final payment page, please indicate what you'd like to gain from this event.)

asana of the month
tree/vrksasana

Benefits: This pose strengthens thighs, calves, ankles, and spine, stretches the groins and inner thighs, chest and shoulders, improves sense of balance, relieves sciatica and reduces flat feet.

yogi of the month
chuck zebrowski

I started taking yoga about two years ago. At first it was to be an adjunct to climbing — something to keep me flexible and to improve my balance. Quickly I found that yoga was so much more. The feelings of well being and peace that I feel at the end of class are fantastic and worth more than I can express. I find myself craving those moments of awareness, stillness and peace. Yoga (and the way it is practiced at Tranquil Space) has been the perfect way to stretch my body and soul. The teachers of Tranquil Space are all creative, patient, and positive. I love how the classes change from week to week and incorporate new elements and new positions yet still keep to a structure that puts me where I want to be. It's a great way to step back from the wacky world of work and life in the urban jungle to enjoy being in your own skin and head. I have only taken the first few baby steps in what I hope will be a long and fruitful path. Thanks to all the folks at Tranquil Space!

tranquiliTeam player of the month
alise frye

tranquiliT boutique
yoga clothing and accessories

Shop the tranquiliT boutique to view a line of yoga clothing and accessories designed to celebrate the bodies of active and stylish yogis. You can purchase tranquiliT tees, pants, and yoga accessories online at the tranquiliT boutique! This month's featured item is our lavender aromatherapy spray. A great stocking stuffer for you or your favorite yogi! As a continuing benefit of our Charity Community, a portion of the tranquiliT proceeds are donated to My Sister's Place - an organization committed to eradicating domestic violence.

reflective closing thoughts

The year is coming to an end, yet many dreams or new year's resolutions may have not yet come into fruition. To me, the end of the year always signals a small death to me, the closing of a chapter in my life, and a perfect time to reflect with pride on the dreams realized, the lessons learned. Also, this is the time to employ self-compassion when gazing on those stars that have yet to be captured. There is always next year, the rebirth of newness and a chance to return to a clean slate with enthusiasm to make even more dreams reality.

One way to honor the dying of the old self and welcome the new is through one's yoga practice. To me, yoga equates empowerment, strength and flexibility — not only on the yoga mat, but in daily life. For example, by noticing a reoccurring sense of apprehension with certain poses or a lack of desire to progress to the next level of practice, you can reflect on a similar tendency in life: the tendency to stay in the comfort zone or to practice negative self-talk by telling yourself that you aren't good enough, strong enough, flexible enough. I believe that what takes place on the yoga mat is a reflection of how one relates to life — a very honest mirror. By challenging yourself (within intelligent limits, mindful of real limitations), you can find the strength to push past preconceived boundaries, and you can experience the bliss of realizing your true potential. This may show up through progress in a yoga pose, by changing careers, or by leaving an unhappy relationship. Yoga helps to challenge and empower us both on and off the mat.

Yoga has become a way of life for me. I hope that you are able to find a few moments of "on or off the mat" time for yourself during the holiday season. Within all the hustle and bustle, spend some time reflecting on what the passing season of gratitude and upcoming season of joy and celebration mean to you. Allow this month to serve as a time of honoring 2003, noting lessons learned, visions attained, and connections made while also preparing your vision for 2004. Without a vision, it is easy to see days, months, years, and even lifetimes passing without any sort of direction. Thoreau wrote, "I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived." Consciously move into the holiday season and the upcoming new year with intention and passion. The life you desire requires deliberate compassion-filled baby steps.

I look forward to celebrating with you at our 4th annual holiday party on the 14th and wish all of you a joy-filled month. Happy Holidays and thank you for your continued support.

Much love and A TON of gratitude for sharing yourself with me, Kimberly Wilson Creative Director