Whatcha Reading?
Have a book you want to recommend? Send us a review at breatheyogacenter@gmail.com
I almost always have at least 3 books in progress. This month’s reads are:
Living Your Yoga by Judith Hanson Lasater, PhD
It’s funny how reading a book for the second time can you give you a whole new perspective. I first read this book over 10 years ago before I had doubled the the size of my family and pursued a full-time career. Re-reading it I now find even more comfort in her stories which share common everyday concerns and family situations. It still drives home to me that we really can find the spiritual in everyday life off the mat, no headstand required. Bottom line: well-written fast read about common everyday life with simple solutions to living yoga off the mat.
Present Moment Wonderful Moment – Mindfulness Verses for Daily Living by Thich Nhat Hanh
“Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment, I know this is a wonderful moment” (#14 – Following the Breath)
This collection of gathas (short verses recited during daily activities to help us return to the present moment and dwell in mindfulness) stays close to me and its worn cover and tattered pages are like the comfort of a childhood blanket. Remaining in the moment is an ongoing challenge; and in times when I can’t seem to find it on my own, I know I can find a verse to bring me back to the present moment. And if the present moment is not a ‘wonderful’ moment?
What if it is one of difficulty or hardship? Thay tells us that the phrase ‘wonderful moment’ does not translate to a “don’t worry, be happy” Pollyanna Principle. Rather, Thay reminds us that suffering can be transformed, that happiness is possible, and it is possible right here and now.
Bottom Line: one of the best “living in the moment” references out there.
Goddesses Never Age by Christiane Northrup, M.D.
Unlike many of you, I am not familiar with Dr. Northrup’s works. This was a gift from a dear friend and I must say I am enjoying it immensely. I am only halfway through it, but I can tell you I love her unabashed ongoing proclamation that it is OK to live your joy; and that in fact, the secret to being ageless is to embrace it fully. This is a book for women about ageless living, which is what we experience when we engage life without fear. Bottom Line: it has inspired me to embrace my Alpha Goddess and reminds me that the saying is true: age is just a number.
