We can often get lost in the shuffle of everyday stresses, especially in a whirlwind of summer travel and activities. That’s why we suggest getting lost in a good book instead. Whether you’re a casual yoga practitioner, or experienced yogi, reading ultimately betters our minds and is a compliment to anyone’s practice.
Though we have a really great book selection here at Semperviva, we chose three books we think you should be reading this summer. All three are very different, but wonderful in their own unique way.
Challenging readers to live with passion, energy, and honesty is ‘The Dance’ by Oriah. A follow up to ‘The Invitation’, this insightful read expands on Oriah Mountain Dreamer’s new moving prose poem. “The key,” says Oriah, “Is to savor the everyday world of family, friends, love, and work with clear minds and open hearts. When we are physically and emotionally stressed and our spirits are depleted, we must realize that happiness has not vanished but is buried beneath the clutter of our harried lives.”
Told through honest stories of her own experiences, you will, in many cases, end up nodding and smiling in agreement with Oriah. A stunning message of living in the here and now, and being comfortable in your own skin and while staying true to yourself.
Chances are, you’ve heard of, read, and/or seen the movie based on ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ by Elizabeth Gilbert. In this touching story self discovery, Gilbert sets off on a journey to Italy, where she eats and enjoys life (Eat). Then venturing over to India to find her spirituality (Pray), ending up in Bali, Indonesia (Love). Told with lots of wit and humour, this book will have you laughing and crying along with Gilbert, reminding us of the importance of travel and self reflection.
This month, we’re highlighting ‘Meditations from the Mat’ by Rolf Gates and Katrina Kenison. It’s the book of choice for our book club meeting, to be held after beach yoga on August 12th. Without giving too much away, it’s essentially a reminder of why we love yoga. How our practice is not just another exercise routing, but a discipline of the body and the mind.
‘Meditations from the Mat’ is the type of book that you can pick up at any time and begin reading where ever you are in your life’s journey. Taking what you learn on the mat and continuing it through to life’s moments off the mat.
It just isn’t summer without a good book to read! View these books and many others at the Semperviva Lifestyle Store on West 4th, as well as our Sun and City (Broadway) locations. Don’t forget to also pick up your copy of ‘Meditiations from the Mat’ by Rolf Gates and Katrina Kenison for our beach book club meeting on August the 12th!
What’s on your summer reading list?
Alicia Quan
Fashion + Lifestyle Blogger
Aliciafashionista.com