Reading time: About 3 minutes.
Merry Christmas!
I debated sending this newsletter on Christmas day but figured we all need a quiet moment after the hubbub and busyness of the season. I also wanted to reach out to anyone feeling extra sad or alone today to let you know I am thinking of you and to share a way to connect internally and be reminded that you’re not alone.
Years ago, I was at a class at Inside Out Yoga Studio in Seattle’s University District when the instructor, Kim Trimmer, handed out pieces of chocolate. She doesn’t need to bribe me with chocolate to get me to show up for class, though I admit the novelty was a delight.
Kim is a kind, compassionate instructor whose gentle guidance grounds me in my body—no matter what shape it’s in. She helps me celebrate my particular human existence. For instance, plank pose is no longer about strength training or enduring to the end. It has become an exploration into whether I am being kind to or bullying myself when faced with challenges.
On this day in the studio, Kim led us in a mindful eating meditation using the chocolate she had given us. Woven into the meditation was a check-in with my body’s hunger pangs, both physical and heartfelt. Then she took us on a guided journey that highlighted the connection between where I sat at that moment and all the people who had made that piece of chocolate possible. Little did I know how moved I would be by this, but before it was over, I was in tears. There in that yoga studio, I felt my part in a bigger community, all because of a tiny piece of chocolate. It was so beautiful, so connecting.
Recently, I discovered Kim’s Mindful Eating Meditation on Spotify, so I asked if I could share it with you today. Happily, she said yes. To access it on Spotify, click this link or the image below. In this version, you can use any food you have—leftovers from your holiday meal, chocolate from your stocking, gingerbread cookies, or pumpkin pie. It’s up to you.
If you enjoy this meditation and would like to hear more, click this link to go to Kim’s corner of Spotify. If you live in Seattle, consider signing up for one of her classes in the New Year. She offers classes for all levels of students, and no matter what your skill-level, your age, or your body shape, you’ll find a welcoming, encouraging atmosphere.
Beginning in February, Kim is putting together a workshop called “Posture Power.” In this six-week series, she’ll teach ways to address body aches and pains caused by modern-day tech use (such as my recurring shoulder and neck pain from sitting at a computer all day!). Learn more by visiting her website to see the class schedule and sign up. You can also contact Kim with questions at info@ioystudio.com or find her on Instagram at @ioystudio.
The holidays can be a joyful time for many, but for others, it can be a time when we feel grief and isolation more than usual. No matter where you fall on that spectrum, I hope this newsletter brings you a measure of peace and comfort. May the days and weeks ahead be replenishing.
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Wow, I wish I lived closer. This class, the posture one, is one I NEED. Don't have Spotify, but the Mr. does... I'll have to check it out... Happy New Year!
Thank you, Sherry! Wishing you all the best in the New Year. I love this time of reflection and new beginnings. Looking forward to connecting with you over brunch!