yoga at the new(ish) central library

San Diego unveiled its new Central Library in November, and since then the landmark has quickly established itself as a place that’s about so much more than books. Beyond the bay views, art exhibitions, and sleek architecture, the Library Shop is a great boutique of home goods, accessories, pet needs, and, of course, books. This ain’t your musty regional library with stale, boring gifts. At San Diego’s Library Shop, you’ll find everything from Rifle Paper Co. to handmade jewelry and artistic bookends—and all proceeds benefit the San Diego library system.

What’s more, the Library Shop also hosts awesome events. This past weekend, I went to the Shop’s morning yoga class run by downtown studio Hale Holistic. We set up our mats outside the shop, and even though the morning was a bit chilly—we can be wimps in San Diego—the sun came out and it turned out to be a beautiful day. With the PA system, it was easy to hear the instructor, and the class was a perfect medium level. Sometimes as these types of free events, the classes can be a bit basic, but for someone who does yoga once to twice a week, it was just challenging enough. To top it off, they served James Roasting coffee (for free) afterwards, so what’s not to love?

Here’s a look at the yoga class and other goodies from the Library Shop. And for updates on their upcoming events, including a calligraphy workshop on May 31, check out their Facebook page for more info.

That’s me on the far left in green. Reverse warrior, what?