KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – Local mindfulness and QiGong teacher, Joanie Lane, offers gentle guidance on how to approach the holidays with a joyful and open heart at this month's Companion Circle.

The educational and social gathering is Monday, Dec. 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. at A Positive Light Center for Spiritual Awakening, located at 6470 Kelsey Creek Drive in Kelseyville.

The event is open to the public and offered by donation.

"For some, this time of year can be a joyful, exciting time, but for others it can mean stress, anxiety, and possibly feelings of foreboding or depression," explained Lane. "In either case, setting ourselves up for good times, no matter what the past may have held, is something we can actively support."

Through journaling, meditation and discussion, Lane will guide attendees to notice, identify and open to feelings as they arise. "Practicing with the proper perspective," furthered Lane, "we learn to place our emotions, even the difficult ones, in a more realistic light."

This practice gives one a little more room for cultivating self-compassion and joy, according to Lane, director of A Positive Light Center for Spiritual Awakening and a Reiki Master/Teacher. Compassionately opening our attitude toward difficult people utilizing a forgiveness practice will also be explored.

Companion Circles are monthly gatherings for those curious about or committed to a mindfulness practice. The evening includes a guided mindfulness exercise, question and answer period, social mingling and a guest presenter.

Attendees are invited to wear comfortable clothing, bring a journal, and, optionally, a simple finger food to share. Tea and water are served.

There is a suggested donation of $10, though no one is turned away for lack of funds. A portion of proceeds from the monthly event is donated to Asian elephant rescue efforts working to free elephants in the entertainment field from harmful treatment.

For more information on the monthly gatherings visit www.MindfulAndIntentionalLiving.com or call 707-350-1719. For more information on Joanie Lane and A Positive Light Center for Spiritual Awakening, visit www.APositiveLight.com or call 707-279-6031.