Dear , I've been talking in some of my yoga classes lately about the 4 Brahmaviharas, the qualities a yogi strives for (according to Patanjali's Yoga Sutra) when cultivating a calm and tranquil mind. I think these are great things to keep in mind over the holiday season, so I thought I would share them with all of you! Maitri- friendliness. Be friendly to those around you! It's easy to be friendly towards others who are also friendly or joyful. Karuna- compassion. To those who are not joyful, or are suffering, offer your compassion. Put yourself in the shoes of another this season, and consider doing a random act of kindness. Mudita- joy. This particularly refers to feeling joy when others are joyful- take their joy as your own, without feeling jealous of their happiness. Upekshanam- equanimity. This is the hardest one! Try to stay on an even keel- take the good with the bad, and remember that everything is happening FOR you, not TO you. Take all experiences with the perspective that all is happening for your growth and awakening. As yoga students, we are stretching not only our bodies, but also our minds and hearts. Yoga philosophy helps us see the bigger picture! I hope that you have a wonderful holiday season, full of love, joy, friendliness, compassion, and peace. Namaste, Cheryl | 
