“Hello darkness my old friend….” These words of Paul Simon come to mind as we once again approach the darkest day of the year, the winter solstice, in the cycle of seasons. As we encounter this darkness, we need to in draw in its opposite, the light. During our evening practices (when darkness has descended by 5:00 p.m.) the view of glittering tree lights on the square brings a sense of sparkle and warmth to our spirits. We can only appreciate the light because of the darkness.

Exhaustion, stress, and loneliness are forms of internal darkness that we may encounter as we turn our focus inward. It is important to acknowledge them as friends, as Paul Simon’s words express, and not to make them our enemies. We often have a tendency to add more pressure and stress by pushing them away and judging them as uncomfortable. However, they are signals to light the flame of the true self in the heart, healing the sense of fragmentation into wholeness and acceptance. Making time and space in your daily routine for even a few moments of stillness and contemplation is a great gift to yourself, accepting all the parts of you.

During this month of December, we are thankful for the light of our community and practice together. We look forward to continued practice with those of you we know and to welcoming new people who wish to begin the practice of yoga. As previously announced, the beginner class will continue on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. through December, and new students are welcome to join us any week.

December schedule variations and special events:
Saturday, 12/1: basics class will begin at 8 a.m. because of the Christmas Parade. Unless you plan to remain downtown after class to enjoy the parade, we suggest parking on the south side of Chestnut Street for ease of departure. You may find the parking lot at the Public Theater of Kentucky convenient.
Friday, 12/14: discussion and meditation following the 5:30 p.m. yin class (no charge, all are welcome).
Monday, 12/24 and Tuesday, 12/25 (Christmas Eve and Christmas Day): no classes.
Monday, 12/31 (New Year’s Eve): 9 a.m. mixed level class with Angie (all are welcome).
For the full December schedule, please click on the class calendar tab of this website.