November LOVE Letter

“Release judgement, replace it with loving-kindness. Release pressure, replace it with care. Release comparison, replace it with gratitude.”

- Cleo Wade

Greetings Love Community,

Can you believe it? Here we are rolling into November—the month of giving and gratitude. The colors of the leaves remind us that change is our only constant, and that change can be vibrant and beautiful, even as we cling to these last warm days of fall. The darker mornings and evenings gently nudge us inward, away from outer sense pleasure and toward inner reflection—what in yoga’s Eight Limbs is called Pratyahara (drawing inward), and Svadhyaya

(self reflection).

When we begin to practice the Yoga Sutras, we’re invited to look within and remember that we each carry an inner light that never fades or changes, called our Parusha. Focusing on this—especially amidst darkness—reminds us that seasons come and go, people come and go, health comes and goes, we move through periods of color and light and periods of deep darkness, and yet… we orbit around an internal sun. This inner light—our bliss body—is our constant source of joy, gratitude, and presence. And this same light exists in everyone around us, which we are called to remember in how we treat others. It’s there in each moment, waiting for us to notice.

If you’ve lived long enough, you know that this body changes. Things begin to fall apart—that’s part of the aging process. And yet, we are not this body. We are that inner radiance that never dims. For this, I am deeply grateful. For all the moments we share with the people we love, and for this practice, I am extraordinarily grateful. This month, I invite you to join me in focusing on generosity, reciprocity, and an abundance mindset. Allow your practice—on and off the mat—to be an offering. Before you begin on yourmat, extend a silent wish: May this practice benefit others in some way. Remember that being human is hard for everyone; whoever is beside you is likely carrying something too. Send them (and yourself) a quiet wave of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. You might carry the mantra,

“Today I breathe for you. Offer this to a stranger, a neighbor, your children, or anyone in need of support. Finally, dedicate your practice to something greater than yourself—with surrender (ishvarapranidhana) and trust (srdhha). Surrender the judgmental narratives of yourself and others. Release what you can’t control. Let your burdens rest for a moment, knowing you are held in a greater web of connection. Trust that others are breathing for you, too. What you put out, you receive back. Ask not what your practice can do for you—but what you can offer through your practice. Now, let’s take yoga off the mat. This month, in the spirit of generosity, we’re hosting a food drive for the food pantries in both Whitefish and Kalispell. For every item you bring in, you’ll receive a raffle ticket. We’ll be giving away three free months of classes at each studio—so the more items you bring, the more chances you have to win!

Suggested Items

The two food banks we’re benefitting this month are listed here. Flathead Food Bank in Kalispell and North Valley Food Bank in Whitefish. Each studio will have a large bin for donations and raffle tickets for you to fill out. There is no limit to this! Bring as much as you can to share with these incredible organizations. Lastly, this season invites us to practice gratitude. We will have a "Gratitude Wall" at both studios, so please participate and make some notes about what you're most grateful for this month. Help us pile on the love.

As we move through this season of gratitude and giving, may we remember that our practice is not separate from our lives—it’s the way we show up for one another, for our communities, and for ourselves. Whether you’re bringing in a few cans for the food drive, offering your breath forsomeone in need, or simply pausing to notice the light within you and others, know that every act of generosity creates a ripple of healing and connection. Let’s fill our studios—and our hearts—with that spirit this month.

In Gratitude and Yoga,

Holly

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