Photos: Sound body, sound mind

As the inevitable stress of the holidays draws near, it can feel overwhelming to balance work, personal life, and family obligations without turning into a Grinch. Thankfully, there are a variety of resources designed to assist with the blues, and that overall run-down, frantic feeling many experience around the holidays.

People settled into their yoga mats on Thursday evening at the South Branch Library’s Hopeful Room and let their stresses melt away as Emma Kelleher gave them a relaxing “spa day” for their brains. After a series of deep breathing exercises and gentle yogic stretches, Kelleher gently coaxed layers of sound from a variety of crystal quartz chakra and Tibetan singing bowls, Koshi chimes, and gongs. The effect was akin to ocean waves softly washing away tension and daily anxiety.

We all deserve a moment to re-center ourselves and get back on track as the demands of the holiday season ramp up. Building Hope Summit County is offering a variety of resources and free classes through the month of November.

For more information about Emma Kelleher and her sound therapy practice, please visit her website http://www.craftingtheelements.com