a retreat, a salon, a bookshop, a book

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Sometimes you simply know deep in your bones that being somewhere can only leave a lasting impression on your whole being, if only you can get to that place. That’s how I felt as I listened carefully to philosopher/writer Tim Freke being interviewed by Lilou Mace as they sat on a bench in front of Abbey House on a site with “ancient roots” in Glastonbury UK. Being part of a retreat there with Tim Freke, along with other “explorers,” has to be an incredible experience. His website gives a glimpse of his life’s work. And after reading about the books he’s written and comments from readers, methinks anyone ready for a first-time reading and a retreat in Glastonbury is in for a wonderful wild ride – a WOW! of a ride.
www.mysteryexperience.com

I fondly remember a charming neighborhood restaurant located on Irving Place in Manhattan called Sal Anthony’s, and after many years in business it closed. Then Sal Anthony’s 3rd Avenue Movement Salon opened. And so last week when daughter Sumi said, “I made appointments for us at Sal Anthony’s,” I smiled a broad smile. Sumi is always happy doing Pilates, and It’s reflexology for me in the very capable hands of Ann. Feet that daily pound the pavement love reflexology.
Sal Anthony’s is a different kind of salon. This from the website: “We’re not cool Cool is for gyms where people are obsessed with style and hubris. We believe in order to find balance we need to free ourselves from limits of this sort”
www.movementsalon.com

With bodies in fine walking order, we sauntered over to Namaste Bookshop at 2 West 14th Street. It seems that once again small book stores are opening and thriving. Hooray! and judging from the number of customers squeezed into this small place, thriving is the right word. I was looking for The Five Tibetans by Christopher Kilham. It’s also known as the Five Rites of Rejuvenation, and is written about at length in the book, Ancient Secret Of The Fountain Of Youth, Book 2, A companion to the book by Peter Kelder. Think of a retired British officer who went on a spectacular journey, Tibetan lamas, a monastery in the Himalayas, a man named Peter Kelder who was told an incredible story wrapped in ancient mystery, and in writing about it gave the world five simple, graceful, and powerful exercises.

Now the book – I said, “Sumi, I doubt the book is here; I think it’s out of print.” She said, “Ask.” I looked at the shelf where it would be if they had it. “Not there,” I said to no one in particular. Again I heard Sumi whisper, “Ask.” So I did. And there it was on a table that I had passed when entering. As I paid for the book, the two people behind the counter happily announced that the writer of The Five Tibetans will be at the bookshop this coming Friday, 8 June. I smiled. Christopher Kilham has been practicing The Five Tibetans for thirty-five years, and ” . . . he has conducted medicinal plant research in more than 30 countries across 5 continents and the South Pacific.” Imagine an evening spent listening to him at Namaste Bookshop. www.namastebookshop.com

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“Tim Freke’s work is an open door inviting one and all into the Mystery” – Ram Dass author of Be Here Now

“Inspired and clear, The Five Tibetans makes a worthy contribution to body-mind wellness and longevity.” – Dr. Mehmet Oz

“I have done the Five Rites and passed Ancient Secret of the Fountain of Youth on to many friends over the years. I recommend them without reservation.” – Martin Sheen