I love the provocative title of Week 32 "Stimulus versus Cause" in Thom Bond's 52-week online Compassion Course.
 The agency we gain when we view our experiences of pain or pleasure as being caused by our needs, versus being caused by something or someone, is tremendously freeing.
It's entirely legit to view it either way, of course.
But which view gives me more agency and freedom?
Yes, the chocolate brownie "causes" my delight. Or is it my met needs for fun, beauty, taste, play, that cause my delight? Because then, I own my delight, and I own other recourses, and resources to those same delightful ends.
 Is it someone's actions that "cause" my upset? Or is it my unmet needs for respect, and understanding?
When I shift my focus from their actions to my need, I deepen my connection to what I value. And that gives me something.
What? Clarity, agency. Choice.
And this, my friend and fellow human being, is what I wish for you this January and February:
To be home within you, owning clarity within you, whatever may happen outside of you.
If you're keen to self-connect more, learning with others, check this out. Compassion Course 2025 begins registrations March 1st.
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Valen-THAI: Sunday February 16th, 2-4PM
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Are you open to something fun, warm, and sweet this Valentine's? Give yourself and a loved one a treat! Learn to generously offer and graciously receive each other's skilled, loving healing touch!
Sandy and Mary are both experienced partner yoga teachers and Thai yoga practitioners. We have led packed Thai bodywork classes the past two years running in the New York AcroFest at Chelsea Piers. And we (lucky we) practice Thai bodywork mutual self-care, along with partner acrobatics, on the regular!
 Let us lead you through some sweet bonding partner yoga stretches.
Then a delicious Thai bodywork session we'll guide you through.
You will each take your turn to give and receive from each other!
No. Experience. Needed.
But, if you do have experience with bodywork, either receiving or giving, you will benefit and learn even more. You will learn self-care and mutual care skills for the rest your life, and deepen your bond of trust, communication and connection. All levels of fitness are perfectly fine!
Valen-THAI's Day with Mary Aranas & Sandy Ames
Sunday, February 16th, 2-4 PM
Om Factory Union Square (18th St.)
873 Broadway, 2nd Floor, NYC 10003
+ complimentary wine & chocolates after
Register now. Space is limited! Each couple should register under ONE person's name. $130/couple to Feb.14th ($150 after)
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Here are my group classes for January:
 Email me to request an Equinox guest pass to a class, if you are not a member.
Reach out directly about your next corporate class or special event!
Tip: This 7-Chakra set of singing bowls are ready to bring you magic!
Email for private Reiki, Thai, Restorative or Wellness Coaching.
Meanwhile, find my class schedules, workshops, retreats, series, cleanses and more, anytime, at my website: MaryAranas.com
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My first book, Heal To Lead Vol.2, is now an Amazon best seller.
My story "China Dolls" is my "sacral chakra" tale of my mom's drama-riven girlhood and its impact on me and the women of my family, up the family tree, and down it.
The full seven-chakra book I will release in 2025 or 2026 will feature more tales, and insights for all the seven chakras.
For a signed book, email me payment and your mailing address.
Heal To Lead Vol.2 is $20 (+ $10 shipping). Or, if in Manhattan, request my free drop-off at your building!
Thanks for supporting a late life budding author.
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Flashback photos:
*Wari Om photo, Adam Rinder base, Central Park
*Hands of light, Internet
*Jonny Nobleza photo, Lindsey Britt base, MA
*Greg Franklin photo of bikes, Sheep Meadow NYC
*Janel DuRoss "M" logo
Current photos:
*Sandy Ames, Thai partner, Turtle Pond, Central Park
*Raven & Grace Press, Heal To Lead, Volume 2
*Puerto Plata DR, self photo
*Chakra bowls, self photo
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This monthly ENews began in 2006, connecting yogis and friends globally across space and time.You may just meet someone you know, at an event you attend from here!
Thank you friends, for:
Presence, Connection, Mutuality, Shared Reality.
I value you,
OMMMMMmary
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Freedom And Agency