NEWSLETTER FALL 2005

Message from the Director, Katie Carter

“It's a double edged sword: our yoga practice opens us up wide, making us more sensitive not just to our own body and mind, but also to the pain of this world. If we're not careful, we become a sponge, absorbing negativity and grief from the collective conscious…Hopefully our practice gives us some tools to help navigate the unique challenge of living what Hindu philosophy calls the Kali Yuga – a time span in the cycle of this earth in which people are called upon to meet disaster with love, compassion, and right action. We wouldn't be here if we weren't up to the task.”

Elón Sagee, modern day Sage

I think we can all sense the high frequency of visible changes going on around the planet, acknowledging that we are living in unique times.

My own practice has been a constant reminder to me that nothing stays the same.

As I reflect on the past 10 years of “steering the helm” at Wild Mountain Yoga Center , I have fond memories of the seasons of growth and expansion as well as times of inward reflection and slowing down.

Sometimes I can't believe we hosted some of the big name yoga teachers before they hit the big time. Shiva Rea, Sarah Powers, Erich Schiffmann, Paul Grilley, and Peter Sterios all shared their philosophies and experience with us in our little studio in Nevada City! I also remember how fulfilling it felt to host our first Holiday Open House in December of 2001 and asking every one to bring a food item to donate to the Food Bank of Nevada County. We were overwhelmed with food and cash donations! Extending our yoga off our mats and reaching out to the community felt like our practice was guiding us toward a higher purpose. I am so grateful for your energy and trust to make this all possible!

Ten years is a milestone for any business and I am looking forward to what the future holds for our yoga community. I have recently joined the Green Yoga Association, an organization fostering ecological consciousness, reverence and action within the yoga community. The health of our bodies depends on clean air, clean water, and clean food and Yoga is grounded in an understanding of this interconnection. Just think of the postures that honor nature: sun salutations, cobra, pidgeon, tree, heron, dog, cat, and more. Historically, Yoga developed in the context of a close relationship with the Earth and a profound reverence for animals, soil, plants, water and air.

Today, if humanity is to survive and thrive, we must learn to live in balance with nature, our community, and ourselves. As yogis, we have an opportunity to put our tools into action and make a difference. I look forward to continuing our journey together!

Namasté, Katie Carter

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