Bella's Big, Peaceful Garden

The story of "Bella's Big, Peaceful Garden," focuses on how Bella the bear learns about the 8 limbs of yoga: Bella, an energetic bear, struggles with her "whirlwind mind" until her friend Willow the wise old owl invites her to a "calm-down class." There, Bella and her friends learn about the 8 limbs of yoga: - Yamas (Being kind to others): They practice by smiling at each other and helping to roll up yoga mats.- Niyamas (Being kind to yourself): Willow teaches them to give themselves hugs and reminds them that self-care like brushing teeth is part of this.- Asanas (Poses): They engage in fun poses like Tree Pose, Downward Dog, and Happy Baby, giggling and wobbling along the way.- Pranayama (Controlled breathing): Willow guides them to breathe like smelling a flower and blowing a bubble, which helps Bella feel calmer.- Pratyahara (Controlling senses): They explore different textures with a pompom and an acorn, and play "I Spy" and a Tingsha bell game to focus their sight and hearing.- Dharana (Focus): Bella practices her focus by walking across a yoga strap like a balance beam and playing "Toe-ga" to pick up pompoms with her feet.- Dhyana (Meditation): Finally, they lie down on their mats, closing their eyes and repeat "Peace begins with me," allowing Bella's mind to become still.By the end of the class, Bella feels transformed. Her mind is clear, her body is relaxed, and she's learned how to find her inner calm, no matter how busy her day gets. The book features Kati Thompson's designs and main illustrations, detailed with artwork by her daughters, Annie and Charlotte. Kati's husband, Isaac, edited the story, creating a true family collaboration!