You Say Yogini, I Say Yogina, We All Say Tacoma's Source Yoga!

I don't see myself really as a "yoga" person. I learned yoga from books (the excellent Cyndi Lee books from OM Yoga in New York, click HERE to see a sample of one of her books). I just followed the pictures in the book (so in essence, I didn't even know if I was doing it right, just guessing really). I didn't have "real" yoga clothes (just clothes for running or pajamas, the pjs being the preferred outfit). Sometimes I'd just stop doing yoga for a couple of months. No reason really; just didn't feel like it. And I've never taken a class. Ever.

Until today!

My friend Joanna invited me to Source Yoga in Tacoma (near by old childhood neighborhood near the gulch and by Magoo's Tavern on 21st). I was going to be in a "community class" with all levels of skills early this evening. Joanna is a terrific yoga person (a "real" one in my view) and I trust her judgment. So, I went. What a treat!

First off, I was warmly greeted by Amy our instructor. Her smile and welcoming manner made me feel at ease instantly. The studio was bright, yet soothing. Scented candles burned and interesting music played in the background, soft and sensual to a little more lively (later on) and the lighting was spot on, not too bright, not too dull. (After see these touches I am going to replicate it at home!). There were tidy little cubes for your personal belongings and ALL the equipment (mats, blocks, bands, bolsters and blankets) are provided (big bonus--no hauling stuff). This was a popular class and it was filled, but there was plenty of respectful space between participants.

And speaking of respect, during the practice, I earned a healthy respect for vinyasa flow style of yoga (my books are all hatha yoga). Some of the phrases and moves were a little foreign to me, but many things I knew and could perform. Amy had such a gentle, soothing, and soulful voice and exuded pure happiness. I learned to honor my experience of just doing the yoga practice, and that it was MY practice. That's when the fuzzy feeling of "Hey, look at me I can do this, I am keeping up!" fell way to relaxation and focus. I also learned that I needed to let go of my forced breathing and let that flow more naturally (critical in yoga practice). Lastly, I learned that yoga class people are awfully nice. There were all kinds of folks there, all ages, both men and women. After my experience, I felt great and I am looking forward to trying another class. The price is modest in my view, considering what you get. (To note: if you are BRAND spankin' new to yoga, I'd recommend talking to the folks at Source to find the best fit for you).

So, South Sounders, if this sounds like you, check out Source Yoga's class offerings as there are many flavors. I saw everything from an intro class, to a Mom and Tot class, to pre-natal classes, to more intermediate and advanced classes, drop in community classes, and to pure meditation for refreshment and relaxation.

Namaste!

Tacoma Business Resurrected!

My eyes just about fell out of my head.

My favorite women's boutique in Tacoma, Jasminka in the North End's Proctor District, closed it's doors last November after 26 years of serving the community. I was sad to see it go, and in the past few months, really haven't found a suitable replacement.

However, as I was driving by the old storefront yesterday on the way to my parent's home, I saw a glimmer of hope. A sign was posted in the store window that said that Jasminka was resurfacing under new management in April! Now I suspect that it probably won't follow the theme and tradition established by original owner and Tacoma fan Rondi Boscovich, but that's okay. I am thrilled to see that a boutique is taking it's rightful place on Proctor.

Note to new management: I strongly suggest keeping Rondi's sense of fine customer service, friendliness, and deep community involvement. These are some of the more important reasons I supported the store.

Good Luck, Jasminka! I wish you well.

Gritty City Woman Gets a Fresh Lid and a Drunken Rooster: Azarra Salon and Wine

Fresh lid? Yes. I have a shorter, sassier, “summery-er” hairstyle (summery-er is not a word I know, but it captures the feeling, eh?) courtesy of my hair zen master Aura Mae of Azarra Salon and Wine. Drunken Rooster? Drunken Rooster WINE (Grenache), that is. And it was yummy.

Grit City has its very own groovy salon and wine bar all rolled up in one. Azarra Salon and Wine recently unveiled their new digs in the Harmon Building on Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma. The new space features a cool reception room that overlooks Pac-Ave. (the people watching cannot be better!) and each stylist has their own room! Aura’s room is the “wine room” (how appropriate for this Gritizen). Excellent labels, good prices, and wine discussion—total fun. I loved being in my own little room as a client—it really feels like the focus is on YOU. And even better, I am surrounded by liquor. Bonus!

But seriously though, I love this concept and the look and feel of this place. And really, Aura and staff are cut and color experts. I have had the best hair looks and styles that I’ve had in YEARS. And I tried some highlights for kicks and they are PERFECT, every time.

Wanna check it out? Go for it, but read HERE first.

Cheers!
Kim

P.S. Before you ask, no, there are no pics at the moment of the new ‘do. My eyes are swollen, puffy, and dark circled from acute allergies and I have a scrape on my face (don’t ask). Plus, I don’t want to scare off any potential Azarra Salon and Wine clients. So, when I get back to “normal” (yeah, so to speak), you’ll get your pic.