Once again it is December and we are left wondering how did these past months go by so quickly.  In reviewing our focus from last December, it seems appropriate to revisit or perhaps for the first time notice the importance of taking time for ourselves.  Our message from last December begins with a familiar phrase from our past.

“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.  To review the month’s class schedule, please see the attached file, the calendar page of the site, or a hard copy available at The Pots Place.

Upcoming special events and schedule changes:

• Friday, 12/13:  7:00 p.m. Holiday party with yoga folks, tai chi folks, and potters (beginning after the yin class).
• Friday, 12/20:  6:45 p.m.  Talk and meditation hosted by Juanita (all are welcome, no charge).
• Tuesday, 12/24 (Christmas Eve): no classes.
• Wednesday, 12/25 (Christmas Day):  no classes.
• Tuesday, 12/31 (New Year’s Eve):  9 a.m.  Mixed-level class (all are welcome).
• Wednesday, 1/1 (New Year’s Day):  10 a.m.  Mixed-level class (all are welcome), followed by casual potluck brunch.

Inclement weather policy:  If we need to cancel class because of winter weather, we will announce that cancellation at least one hour before the beginning of the class, and we will share the cancellation notice both via email and on Facebook.  If you would like us to add a supplemental email address for you so that you receive these notices quickly (e.g., if you want both your work and home addresses in our list), please let us know.

Studio access: If you arrive at The Pots Place after a class has begun, remember that you can still join us. Just go to the back entrance facing Mariah’s (look for the blue building) and press the buzzer next to the door; the teacher can then unlock that door remotely.