Give the gift of wellness

About a month ago, I received an email: “I am the Chair of Toy Purchasing for the Rockbridge Christmas Baskets program,” it began. “We provide food and gifts to over 3,000 people at Christmas time. For our 16- and 17-year-old-girls, we have purchased 70 yoga mats and would also like to purchase a deck of yoga cards to go along with the mats. We are hoping to purchase wholesale if possible. Is this something you would be able to help us with?” 

Okay, Rockbridge. You had me at “I am the Chair of Toy Purchasing.” (Hands down, the best title ever!) Intrigued, I went on their website to learn more. Rockbridge Christmas Baskets is a community-based nonprofit in Lexington, Virginia. It started in 1948 with the mission to help as many “neighbors-in-need” as possible. This year, 600 volunteers (yes, 600!) will gather on “packing day” to distribute over 68,000 pounds of food and more than 1,300 toys to families and kids. For many of these kids, it is the only gift they will receive. 

Besides being impressed by the organization’s mission, longevity and incredible community spirit, I applaud the idea of giving the gift of wellness…truly the gift that keeps on giving long after the holidays are over. I am honored that they chose The Yoga Deck and hope the girls will experience the many physical, emotional and spiritual benefits yoga can bring both on and off the mat: strength, flexibility, balance, energy, serenity and inner peace. 

To learn more about Rockbridge Christmas Baskets, visit rockbridgechristmasbaskets.org.