Message from Sara
A Poem for You
Boutique Spotlight
Upcoming Events
Favorite Winter Recipe
Moon Calendar
New & Noteworthy


“The patience of a rose close to a thorn keeps it fragrant.”
Rumi


Greetings!

I write to you now from my sunny and vibrant home of Chiang Mai, Thailand. This morning the birds outside sing in celebration of the arrival of a fresh moment, fresh day.

Last night during a women’s circle that I lead here; two dozen of us convened under the dark moon and made intentions to let go of that which no longer nourishes our fullest expression of love and participation in life. When we use seasonal landmarks, such as the New Year or the new moon, to mark the rites of passage in our lives, our intentions and actions increase in potency. We remember: the entire universe is on our side! With this remembrance, success is imminent. In fact, sometimes it is already here.


If you haven’t already done so, take a quiet moment today or this evening to journal about that which you are ready to relinquish during this New Year. Use the potency of the shift that is happening in Nature now to support your inner journey. What is the door that is ready to be closed? And what is the door that is just waiting to be opened?

Please enjoy the offerings in this newsletter—from poetry, to recipes, to yoga, to real estate!

My wish for you is that you may you be happy in this new year and live that happiness to your fullest.

With a deep bow,
Sara







May the roots of suffering diminish.  May warfare, violence, neglect,
indifference, and addictions also decrease.

May the wisdom of compassion of all beings increase, now and in
the future.

May we clearly see all the barriers we erect between ourselves and
others to be as insubstantial as our dreams.

May we appreciate the great perfection of all phenomena.

May we continue to open our hearts and minds, in order to work
ceaselessly for the benefit of all beings.

May we go to the places that scare us.

May we lead the life of a warrior.

~Pema Chodron







Yogini Tanks:

100% cotton, hand-beaded, made in Thailand. Available in a variety of colors. $30 (includes shipping & handling)

Click here to order





Meditation Temple at IWP
Women’s Yoga and Meditation Retreat

With Sara and Ouyporn Kournkaew
Chiang Mai, Thailand; January 12-18, 2008

When women get together, magic happens. Enjoy 7 all-inclusive days to develop or deepen a relationship to your yoga and meditation practice—and, most importantly, to yourself.

Our daily schedule will consist of two yoga sessions with Sara, meditations and dharma talks with Ouyporn, three organic vegetarian meals, walks in nature, evening films and personal time on your own. We will also have designated periods of silence during the retreat. Located in a rural village just 40 minutes outside of Chiang Mai, the retreat center offers peace, quiet and the good company of wise women.

   
   

Journey to the Source! Yoga in Rishikesh, India

Sacha Dam Ashram
February 19- March 16, 2008

Mixed-level Anusara-Inspired Yoga™ classes on the banks of the Ganges.
   
   

Spring into Spring with Anusara-Inspired Yoga™

Yoga Elements; Bangkok, Thailand
March 21-23, 2008

Springtime, nature’s yearly rebirth, is a magical, dynamic and sensuous time of year. During this season, Anusara Yoga® teaches us to follow nature's lead and to become lighter and more open--physically, emotionally, and mentally.



   

Click here to view Sara’s 2008 schedule.







Winter Spice Tea

Adapted from Yogi Bhajan’s famous Yogi Tea, this version can be made with or without dairy and caffeine. It increases circulation, stimulates the digestive fire and boosts the immune system. Enjoy!

3 1/2 gallons water
1/2 cup cardamom pods
1/3 cup whole cloves
1/2 lb. gingerroot thinly sliced
15 cinnamon sticks
optional:
4 green or black tea bags
1 gallon soy/rice/almond/organic cow’s milk

Bring water to boil in a 5 gallon pot. Add cloves and let dance for 1-2 minutes. Add cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. Cover and simmer for at least 45 minutes. Add tea and milk. Bring to boiling point and immediately remove from heat. Allow to stand, unstrained, until almost time to serve (this will increase potency of tea and most spices will settle to the bottom). Sweeten with honey if desired.






By honoring the cycles of the moon, we can connect with the cyclical rhythms in nature and within ourselves.

New Moons:
Use these days to relax, sleep in, meditate, curl up with a book and eat simple foods like fresh juices, salads and steamed vegetables.

January 8, February 7, March 7

Full Moons: 
Use these days for high-energy celebrations. Dance, go for a hike, skinny dip under the moonlight, indulge in rich desserts and festive meals with family and friends.

January 22, February 21, March 21





My mom’s moving!


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