This last week was the observance of the Nine days of Navaratri, October 15-24th which is one of the largest religious observances around the world based in Indian Culture and traditional practices. It is celebrated differently in different communities and traditions, but they all surround the story of the aspects of the Supreme Goddess Adi Parashakti, in particular Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.

These aspects of the Goddess represent different energies and forces in life and nature. Kali and Durga are known as powerful forces that destroy, and protect, Lakshmi carries the energy of prosperity, abundance and preservation. and Saraswati holds the energy of creativity, wisdom, and ultimate truth. In Shaktist and Shaivist traditions the Supreme goddess constitutes the essence of everything in the universe(s) and her aspects represent some of the different forms that her energy can take.

During Navaratri, we are invited to work with these goddess energies to release things that no longer serve us, preserve and maintain the things that do, and to pour our energy into creating or bringing something new into our lives.

While we as Yogis don't necessarily need to adhere to these practices, we can use this invitation as motivation to dive deeper into our personal practice. During these next nine days, take some time in the morning to journal and ask yourself:

What things or energies can I release that are no longer serving me?

What healthy and positive practices do I want to preserve and maintain?

How can I channel my energy to create something new or inspiring?

Don't forget we're square in the middle of our Flowtober Yoga Stickerboard Challenge! Attend Classes and fill out information on Walla to get more stars, and see if you can get 21 stars by the end of the month. Those who get 21 stars will be entered into a raffle for some great prizes and goodies at the end of the month. That means we only have 13 more days to get those stars, so you still have time to get into class! We can use this challenge as a way of preserving and deepening our yoga practice!

We have some wonderful things going on in the studio this week. Claire and Mikal will be leading a Yoga Nidra Crystal Soundbath on Oct 21st, 6:30-8:00pm, spots fill up fast, so make sure you sign up to secure your spot!

On Halloween were having our 6:30pm Form and Flow turn into a Spooky Glow and Flow. The 5:15pm Gentle class will be canceled but Kristen's Spooky Glow and Flow will be accessible to all Levels!

We look forward to seeing you in class this week!