This spring, more than ever before, I feel hopeful about the future. My own future, but more importantly the future of the world. A big part of that has to do with the fact that I am turning 45 on April 19th, and I have stepped fully into my soul's purpose to serve the world through encouraging people to nurture their bodies, minds, and spirits. At this point in my life, I have established my career and my business, my son is seven and in school all day, so I have more time to do the things I have always wanted to do, like volunteer for missions I believe in.

photo credit

One of those missions is the work of RunningBrooke. Many of you have heard of this organization and also know the founder, Brooke Curran. Brooke has been a friend of mine for almost two decades and it has truly been an honor to see what she has created and be part of it. RunningBrooke is a non-profit organization that gets kids, especially at risk kids, moving to spark academic achievement. As a yoga teacher, I know firsthand how important movement is for feeling grounded, connected, and focused.

A RunningBrooke-funded classroom in action

For Spring2ACTion, I have gathered a group of local businesses -- team #Block2BeOn -- to help raise money for RunningBrooke. Participating businesses include: Mind the Mat, Kiskadee, The Shoe Hive, Bellacara, Core Wellness, and Vital Body Mind Therapies (Melissa McGlone & Linda Frommeyer).

Hume Springs Playground built with RunningBrooke funds.

Shop To Double Your Donation!

Use this link to donate $25 or more to RunningBrooke Tuesday April 9th or Wednesday April 10th and receive 10% off on your next purchase at any of the above businesses through December 31st, 2019. Shop at any of the above businesses tomorrow, April 10th, and a generous portion of your purchase will go to RunningBrooke.

Join Us Today...

Today, Tuesday April 9th, purchase lunch, dinner, take-out, or gift certificates at Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza and a generous portion of your purchase will go to RunningBrooke.

...and Tomorrow To Support RunningBrooke

Join us at Del Ray Pizzeria tomorrow, Wednesday, April 10th between 6-9pm upstairs at The Reserve for pizza on the house! The space and the pizza have been generously donated by Del Ray Pizzeria. While there, grab some other food or drinks and a generous portion of your purchase at the pizzeria will go to RunningBrooke.On your way up to The Reserve check out the Kendra Scott jewelry table outside. Make a purchase a generous portion will go to RunningBrooke that day.

And This Spring in Our Studios

Get moving for spring at Mind the Mat. We provide expert instruction in Pilates, yoga, and barre with two studio locations, one in Alexandria and one in Arlington. Both studios have hot Pilates and yoga. Spring is the best time to detox. Check out our HOT STUDIOS and try our brand new infrared hot studio in Clarendon, Arlington. Infared light has been proven to help with weight loss, detoxification, hormone balance, skin health, and more.Check out Mind the Mat's amazing Spring Workshops to elevate your health, including Yoga Nidra, Butts & Guts, Revitalize Spring Cleanse, Rebirth: A Special Easter Yoga Class, Yoga for Post Baby Blur, Infant CPR, and Childbirth Classes.