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(back to Book of the Month) (back to Compact Initiative)
November 2010
The Happiest Tree
by Uma Krishnaswani
Dear Heathcote Family,
Everyone has had the experience of feeling disjointed and frustrated when our body and our brain do not seem to be in sync. This may be especially true with children who may be experiencing growth spurts. In the November Book of the Month, The Happiest Tree-a Yoga Story, by Uma Krishnaswami, we meet eight-year-old Meena, a shy girl who is coping with this struggle. She wants to be a part of the school play, but is reluctant to join in because of her awkwardness. Her lack of balance and self-esteem are getting in the way. That is until with the help of her mother and auntie, she is introduced to the practice of yoga.
With her yoga practice, Meena learns how to make the brain/body connection. She learns to use her breath to calm down and focus. She gains coordination and self-confidence and her worries go away.
This month at Heathcote, through our Compact initiative, we will all have the opportunity to begin to discover how techniques for aligning our minds and bodies such as mindfulness, yoga and Brain Gym can make a positive difference in our lives. We will learn tools to help manage stress, give us control of our bodies and make us strong just like Meena.
While reading this book, it is also important to take note of and share the vast rich multi-cultural East Indian influences which are touched upon. We hope you will enjoy learning about Meena, her personal growth, India, and yoga.
Warmest regards,
PS – This month, K-2 Classes will also receive a copy of The ABC’s of Yoga for Kids, by Teresa Anne Power. Grades 3-5 will receive Yoga Kids Educating the Whole Child Through Yoga, by Marsha Wenig.
