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.
So now we are about to celebrate our seventh 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.
I’ve seen incredible growth in my over five years in business, due to your support, and the support of the Universe. You all are the best customers in the world! It’s a joy to get to know you.
In addition to the over 60 events a month here at the store, breathe books is now organizing trips all over the world. 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. We went to India for an amazing, mesmerizing trip in September, 2008. Our trip to Peru in June 2009, was spectacular. Especially moving for me was the time spent on Lake Titicaca. See the “travel with us” page for details of upcoming tours, including India in November 2011.
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, which I served on for 2 years. I continue to be active by attending workshops around the country. In October, 2007 I was asked to join the board of our regional book association, NAIBA (New Atlantic Independent Booksellers Association). And in 2008, I was voted the Hampden Village Merchant of the Year! And in December 2008, the man I would eventually marry walked through the door!
To add even more joy to our lives, in December 2010, a beautiful puppy entered the store with her Foster Mom. By Janury 2, 2011 she was ours - you can see lots of photos of Larry, Ellananda (Ella) Shakti and me on Facebook!
In November, 2008, after seeing incredible personal results in my life by following Ayurveda, I became certified from the Chopra Center in California to teach Ayurveda here at the bookstore. You can see more about that on our Ayurveda page.
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 several organic restaurants, two yoga studios, acupuncturists, massage therapists, a natural-products hair salon and more on the Avenue? I think not!
And we now proudly accept Batlimore's only Local Currency -- the BNote! You can use this local money at over 60 places in the Hampden and Fells Point areas. Come in and ask us about it!
Remember to think global and buy local.
Thank you so much for your support over these seven years. I literally could not do it without you! You have made this independent bookstore a success.
Susan Weis-Bohlen
Proprietress, breathe books
May, 2011
