baltimore, md : breathe books 410-235-READ : bookstore : how breathe books came to be

bookstore : how breathe books came to be

The idea for breathe books was conceived in June 2002, and born in October 2004 after a long period of meditation and contemplation. I felt Baltimore needed a place for people in the healing arts, for spiritual and metaphysical communities to congregate, read books, attend events, and share their knowledge with others. What could be better than a bookstore — a warm, inviting environment designed to include all spiritual, mystical, and inspirational traditions. Others have come and regretfully gone — it was time to re-create the new-age bookstore in Baltimore.

The concept of breathe books was almost entirely conceived while I was standing in front of the reincarnation section in the amazing Bodhi Tree bookstore in West Hollywood, California. I was out there for business in June 2002, and my life hasn’t been the same since. Actually, I do believe Los Angeles to be the most magical of cities. Every time I’ve gone there my life has taken a dramatic change for the better. But I always feel the need to bring the magic back east!

So now we are entering our fourth year – unbelievable! It’s been such a phenomenal adventure and learning experience – and a complete joy. And I have been privileged to meet so many wonderful people – customers, teachers, presenters, authors and other bookstore owners from around the country. I sometimes feel like breathe books is my own personal sacred space and learning center. I’m amazed that so many of you feel the same. The stories some of you have shared with me of your experiences here have touched me deeply. I’m truly honored.

We saw incredible growth during our second and third years in business, and due to your support, and the support of the Universe, we are now open seven days a week and we have a number part-time staff people so I can take a day or two off here and there!

In addition to the over 30 events a month here at the store, breathe books is now organizing trips all over the world. We are calling these planetary breathe workshops. Our first trip was in August, 2007, to the Heart Chakra of the planet – England. It was incredibly successful and moving. Much time was spent exploring crop circles, Stonehenge at sunrise, the rocks at Avebury and much more. Look for trips to all the Chakra Sites on the planet including the Egypt, the Throat Chakra (March 2008), Mt. Shasta, the Root Chakra, and India (September 2008), the Crown Chakra.

Personally, the breathe books journey has been so fulfilling. I find myself completely immersed in the lifestyle of a bookseller. In April of 2006 I was asked to be on the Booksellers Advisory Council of the American Booksellers Association – what an honor! I now advise the ABA, along with 23 other booksellers from around the country, on issues we face and how to better serve us. In turn – they teach me how to better serve you! I also participate in educational workshops all year long to learn how to be a better bookseller. In October, 2007 I was asked to join the board of our regional book association, NAIBA (New Atlantic Independent Booksellers Association). And this year, 2008 - I was voted the Hampden Village Merchant of the Year!

As a former journalist (I wrote for the Jerusalem Post newspaper in Israel in the 80’s) I am thrilled to once again be writing for several publications including New Age Retailer (a new age publication for retailers and those in the industry) and Shelf Awareness (www.shelf-awareness.com, a free on-line newsletter for general booksellers, publishers, authors, librarians, etc). I tend to keep one foot in the New Age world and one foot in the general bookselling world. I think that balance has helped to create a well-rounded selection in the store, as well as a keen business sense for me.

Locally, the Hampden community is thriving. It’s so exciting to see new businesses popping up all over. Is it coincidence that we now have a organic food deli, two yoga studios, acupuncturists, massage therapists, a natural-products hair salon and more on the Avenue? I think not! It’s the way of the future and the future is now. For the past two years I’ve served as the secretary of the Hampden Village Merchant’s Association which keeps me closely tied to the community. I love what’s been happening! And I hope you do too.