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Book picks - breathe books
In honor of spring, the season of renewal, we asked Susan Weis, owner of breathe books in Hampden, to recommend must-have titles to create the world you want to live in now.
How to be Happy All the Time
by Paramhansa Yogananda
Happiness is closer than you think. As a matter of fact, it’s already inside you. This collection of wise sayings from the famed Indian teacher and yogi Yogananda teach that happiness is the foundation of all we do. You can choose to be happy in any circumstance. (Crystal Clarity Publishers, $9.95)
The Secret Life of Water
by Masaru Emoto
Experiments with frozen water crystals illustrate that our thoughts, words and emotions have a direct effect not only on water, but on the world around us. As we are made mostly of water, Emoto’s work teaches us to be as kind and loving to ourselves as we should be to water, the earth, and those around us. This quietly profound book will move you and hopefully guide you to be a more gentle, caring person. (Atria, $22.95)
The Four Agreements
by Don Miguel Ruiz
Be impeccable with your word; don’t take anything personally; don’t make assumptions; always do your best. Learn to make these agreements with your reality and, in turn, make the world a better place by reading this elegant code of conduct based on Toltec Wisdom. (Amber-Allen Publishing, $12.95)
Ask and It Is Given: The Teachings of Abraham
by Esther and Jerry Hicks
Abraham is a source of energy in the universe that channels messages to Esther Hicks. The teachings—The Laws of Attraction—tell us that the universe is here for our well-being and it gives us whatever we desire. We just have to learn how to receive it. These profound teachings are just about all we need to know to create our own reality. This may be the only book you’ll ever need! (Hay House, $14.95)
The Women’s Book of Healing
by Diane Stein
Much of what you need to know to get acquainted with chakras, auras, crystal energy, gemstones, color healing, and psychic intuition–all in one volume! Diane writes in a friendly, non-intimidating manner on topics that you may not be familiar with. Let her guide you and you’ll be astonished by what you learn! (Ten Speed Press, $16.95)
Start Where You Are: A Guide to Compassionate Living
by Pema Chodron
Chodron is a American Buddhist nun who speaks with such a clear voice that people from all walks of life can understand and even relate to her teachings on compassion and awareness. No matter where you are emotionally or spiritually, you’ll find that this book speaks to you. (Shambhala, $12.95)
Read and renew
breathe books
810 w. 36th st.
410.235.read
Talk about retail therapy—browsing through breathe books rejuvenates the spirit as effectively as a great shopping spree. Housed in a renovated century-old Victorian mansion, the shop’s walls are painted in rich golden hues. Incense and subtle aromatherapy oils scent the space. New Age music plays (it’s catchier than you’d expect). And shelves of colorful books vow to help you follow your dreams, starting right now. Inhale, exhale—repeat.
Susan Weis, a former PR rep and globetrotting journalist, opened breathe in 2004, creating a cozy and inviting place for people interested in the world of mind, body and spirit to gather and discuss thoughts and experiences. It’s the coolest New Age bookstore around, the bookstore of Susan’s dreams, situated in the heart of The Avenue, where the college-age demographic has proved a great match for her product.
“When you enter breathe books, your senses will be filled—you’ll feel the vibrations of calming energy,” Susan says.
Breathe stocks over 5,000 titles on subjects like meditation, yoga, feng shui, tarot, health and nutrition, massage, acupuncture, numerology, channeled information (that’s communication with extraterrestrial beings), Wicca, Taoism, Zen, Shamanism, and many more. Susan also carries CDs, metaphysical movies, and gifts, like Buddhist statuary, goddess charms, angels, and deliciously scented candles.
“I’ve also created a place of study where one can purchase the tools necessary to support them where they are, or for the journey they wish to take,” Susan says. Class offerings sound exciting, if not downright life-changing—one seminar promises to wake the graceful dancer within, another is aimed at healing cells, and another, a psychic intuition course, hopes to awaken students to the reality of Spirit in every minute of daily life.
New Age teachers from around the world lecture at Susan’s adorable shop.
To learn more, email . Visit http://www.breathebooks.com for a list of classes and workshops.