Blue Elephant Yoga

Spring is in full bloom, with longer days and warmer sunshine. As nature bursts into life around us, many of us feel a renewed sense of energy and movement. This month, we once again welcome insight from Mark at Blue Elephant Yoga as he explores how the changing seasons can inspire a fresh start, both physically and mentally. With his guidance, discover how yoga can help you embrace this time of renewal and step into the Summer months ahead with ease.

As the days grow longer and nature bursts into life, many of us feel the urge to throw open the windows, shake off the dust of winter, and welcome in the fresh energy of spring. However, maybe spring cleaning isn’t just about clearing out cupboards; it’s also an opportunity to declutter the mind and body, making space for renewal and lightness.

In yoga philosophy, there’s a concept called Aparigraha, which translates to non-attachment or letting go. It encourages us to release what no longer serves us; whether that’s physical possessions, old habits, or lingering worries. Just as we clear out our homes in spring, we can use this time to clear mental and emotional clutter, creating space for fresh energy to flow.

Decluttering the Mind

Our minds can get just as cluttered as our homes; filled with to-do lists, worries, and thoughts that keep circling. Yoga teaches us that awareness is the first step to letting go. By simply noticing what we’re holding onto, whether it’s stress, self-doubt, or overthinking, we begin the process of release.

Breathwork is one of the simplest ways to clear mental fog. A few slow, deep breaths act like a reset button, helping to quiet the noise and bring us back to the present moment.

Easing Tension in the Body

Just as forgotten items pile up in the corners of a room, tension builds up in the body; often without us realising. A gentle yoga practice, focusing on slow, mindful movements, can help release stiffness and restore a sense of lightness.

Simple stretches, a walk outside, or even standing tall and taking a deep breath can create space, both physically and mentally.

Letting Go of the ‘Shoulds’

Aparigraha isn’t just about clearing out material clutter; it’s also about letting go of expectations and self-judgment. How often do we hold onto thoughts like “I should be more productive” or “I should be better at this”?

Spring invites us to be kinder to ourselves, just as nature doesn’t rush to bloom; it unfolds in its own time. This season, rather than striving to do more, consider what you can release. Maybe it’s an old habit, a stressful thought pattern or the pressure to always be busy.

A Fresh Start

Spring is nature’s reminder that renewal is always possible. By embracing Aparigraha, we free ourselves from the weight of the past and step forward with greater ease.

So, as you go about your spring cleaning, ask yourself: What else can I let go of? The lighter we travel, the easier it is to welcome in the energy of a new season.

Sometimes, all we need is a little space to breathe, move, and reset. That too, is yoga!

Namaste

Kirton Church Fund

Winning numbers for the draw on 23rd March will be in the May magazine and the 27th April draw numbers in the June magazine.

Congratulations to our winners! Both have won before.

A request for help

Last month I mentioned that the books had been sent for their annual audit. Unfortunately the person is now unable to do this and so I am now looking for a volunteer to check through the accounts paperwork to ensure everything is accurate. Is there someone kind enough to do this for us in our local area, please?

If you can help or know someone who can please give me a call on 01205 723529. Thank you.

Kirton Church Fund is one way we raise money for the church. You could help us do this and be in with a chance of winning the monthly draw. Why not come and join us? We have plenty of room for more members. We recently lost two members so there are now only 37 people taking part so there is a very good chance of winning. At only £5 a number each month it is reasonably priced and has never increased. Most of the members pay annually (£60), some pay £30 for 6 months, some £15 for 3 months or you can of course pay the £5 monthly if you wish. The choice is yours. You can also have more than one number as our first prize winner has. Anyone over 18 may take part.

The prize fund is ¼ of the money taken each month. The rest of the money goes to Kirton Church. The more people that take part the higher the prize money and the more money we raise for the church.

Registration forms are available from Fay, please ring 01205 723529, or pick up a form from the back of the church or from Paula’s Gifts on Station Road. If you would like more information please give Fay a ring.

February 2025 Winners

1st PRIZE - £50.62 - TICKET NUMBER: 67
2nd PRIZE - £16.88 - TICKET NUMBER: 82

Data protection. All information (name, address and phone number) of Kirton Church Fund members is held solely for the purpose of managing Kirton Church Fund and is not passed on to any other organisation or used for any other purpose.

A Review from One of Our Animal Boarding Clients

Good morning, Though I prefer the afternoon, allow me to introduce myself. I am a distinguished rabbit with mottled black, brown, and white fur. While mornings are not my preference, I enjoy resting on a thick bed of hay. I am somewhat shy and do not particularly enjoy car journeys. However, upon arrival, I receive a warm welcome from Jax, who gently checks me over, and my mum kisses me goodbye as I embark on my holiday.

I immensely enjoy my time at Jax’s Ark, where top-tier treatment is consistently provided. We small animals are thoroughly pampered, which greatly pleases us. I reside at the Ark regularly and appreciate the meticulous care I receive. During my last visit, my claws were trimmed, and I enjoyed a grooming session during which I might have dozed off, as Jax excels at providing comforting cuddles.

The food here is exceptional and always served punctually, much to my satisfaction. Given my aversion to early mornings, breakfast in bed is a delightful treat. Jax ensures that my dietary needs are met precisely as per my mummy’s instructions, including an egg cup of dry feed, unlimited hay, fresh water daily, greens, and a selection of herbs discreetly hidden in my pen for me to find.

At Jax’s Ark, I do not stay in a hutch but rather in a spacious floor pen equipped with a dig box, hide, tunnels, toys, and a litter tray. I also have the option of a water bottle, bowl, or fountain. My litter tray is cleaned daily, and a fresh puppy pad is provided each time. I often move the tray around my pen and sometimes place toys in my water, which amuses Jax.

I highly recommend arranging a visit for your pets and booking their holidays at Jax’s Ark. For inquiries or reservations, please send a message, contact Jax directly, or visit her Facebook page – Jaxs Ark Small Animal Home Boarding. Follow her page to always have access to her contact information.

Sincerely,

Mr. (I don’t do mornings) Bunny

Meet The Locals

This month we're talking to Tamzin from Serenity!

I'm writing to introduce you to my new business, SERENITY! I look forward to meeting you and introducing the full range of Spa treatments that are available.

I am a professional Spa therapist and Ragdale Hall senior consultant. I have full experience in providing a wide range of luxury treatments that can be tailored to suit your needs.

I trained at Stevensons College and also Stamford College gaining my level 2 and 3 beauty qualifications.

Since then I have worked at Tip to Toe beauty Salon, AUK Stamford and the last 2 ½ years at the Award winning Ragdale Hall Spa where I worked my way up to a senior therapist. I have also been an ambassador for Elemis and have been awarded with the title of Gold Therapist.

I am really excited to get started and look forward to inviting new customers. I shall be working with the fabulous Sea Magic luxurious Products, offering Express Facials, Luxury Facials, Swedish full body massage, Swedish back massage, Deep tissue full Body Massage, Deep tissue back massage, Hot Stone full body massage, Hot Stone back massage, Foot and leg massage, waxing- upper lip, chin, eyebrow, under arm, half leg, full leg. Full body exfoliation, Serenity Scalp treatment and Back Facials.

I like to tailor treatments to my clients specific needs and welcome specialised requirements.

I will be based at The Old Surgery, Station Road, Kirton, Boston. PE20 1LD. Tel 07714 385036.

Bookings now being taken!