Hip Tranquil Chick: A Guide to Life On and Off the Yoga Mat [Paperback]

Kimberly Wilson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 2006

Hip Tranquil Chick addresses that huge but unacknowledged demographic of fashionistas equally at home at Bergdorf’s and the yoga studio. The book is divided into two major sections that cover all bases for the style-minded seeker. "On the Mat" shares seven must-have modern-girl yoga sequences, such as "Healing Hip Openers" and "Negativity Releasing Heart Openers,” and explains yoga philosophy in hip chick language. "Off the Mat" showcases nine ways to become more fabulous and balanced by incorporating yogic qualities like introspection, strength, and flexibility into daily life. The nine lifestyle chapters reveal how to turn on-the-mat wear into on-the-town style, how to create soulful surroundings at home and work, mindful money management, finding a passion-filled career, how strategic soiree-throwing creates community, tips for practicing social consciousness, and more. Each chapter is accompanied by helpful "OMwork" to translate these concepts into reality. Abundant illustrations accentuate the text, and a "savvy sources" section encourages further exploration.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This is the definitive girls' guide to being in shape, having style, and living a meaningful life all at once! -- Cyndi Lee, founder, OM Yoga

About the Author

Kimberly Wilson is a teacher, designer, writer, activist, and entrepreneur. She founded Tranquil Space, voted "DC's Best Yoga Studio." Her work has been featured in Fit Yoga, Yoga Journal, Daily Candy, Lucky, and Shape. She lives in Washington, DC.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: New World Library (November 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1930722710
• ISBN-13: 978-1930722712
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 0.5 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (48 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #276,158 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Kimberly Wilson is a teacher, writer, do-gooder, entrepreneur, and eco-fashion designer. She is the creative director and founder of Tranquil Space - named among the top 25 yoga studios in the world by Travel + Leisure, author of Hip Tranquil Chick and Tranquilista, and holds a Master's in Women's Studies.

When not bookstore browsing, you'll find her sipping heaps of tea, crafting new designs for TranquiliT, or leading retreats. Her work has been featured on Martha Stewart Living Radio, in Daily Candy, Fit Yoga, US News and various books. With a passion for do-gooding, Kimberly launched Tranquil Space Foundation to bring yoga, creativity, and leadership to women and girls and is currently pursuing a Master's in Social Work.

She lives in a cozy raspberry-colored flat in Washington, D.C. with two fancy felines named after French impressionists, a supportive beau, and a sassy black pug. Indulge in musings on tranquilology through her blog and podcast, Tranquility du Jour. Learn more at kimberlywilson.com.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

51 of 56 people found the following review helpful

2.0 out of 5 stars Falls flat for me April 15, 2007

By Cikk VINE™ VOICE

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

I see I'm going to rock the lovefest, but.... I like KW's CDs, which is why I ordered this book - even though I didn't really like the name. The reviews were all so brilliant too.... Maybe I'm just not its market, which seems to be - what? I don't know. Very young girls? But she talks about work a lot, so it can't be teenagers. It's just a touch too shallow. By the end of the book, I couldn't see the words kitten heels again without rolling my eyes. Basically, a hip tranquil chick should wear all black, kitten heels, sequinned hairbands, and have lots of leopard print or bright pink either on her or in her apartment. Tres chic, as she would say. The writer also seems to think that sticking in a French word every here and there makes for hipness.... overuse of tres does not automatically make for chic-ness.

Anyway, I now know not to order any more products from her. My mistake. Yoginis who don't like Cyndi Lee's way of writing or humourous asides on her media (I do, by the way) should avoid this product, as it is much more frivolous than Ms Lee's.....

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars This book is not just for hip tranquil chicks ... aspiring women and even those who are never going to get close will enjoy! January 4, 2007

By Katherine B. Cook

Format:Paperback

The Hip Tranquil Chick is ostensibly a book about yoga and its affect and potential for multiple benefits "on -and -off -the -mat." It is that... and so much more! Kimberly has some of the best suggested sequences and poses for creating a good practice with enough diversity for yogis at every level. I own over 25 books on this topic but this is by far the most user friendly, offering clear explanations presented in a charming and engaging manner.

Kimberly makes a regular practice seem more of a jaunty adventure then an obligatory exercise. The effervescent tone of this book does not forfeit important information or belittle yoga's powerful and historical significances. It is solid in its recommendations and instructions and honors those who practice yoga. Kimberly's passion is apparent and strengthens all aspects of her book. And her obvious delight in her own personal practice is at the heart of the book. Every chapter ends with suggestions and guidance for additional resources: recommended books, websites, cd's and other authors and experts. That is unusual and incredibly generous of her to promote others in her own book ; but that exemplifies her attitude of doing good and doing well.

She is successful studio owner and markets a clothing line; but donates a healthy percentage of her profits to local charities, women's shelters, transitional programs for for women entering the workforce and organizations that promote the arts - giving women the chance to work at their craft.

Despite the demands on her time, Kimberly teaches workshops, teacher trainings and some Yoga I classes all with the same bubbly attitude and attention to form.

The book is just like she is. Good for you and fun too....

It is a clever juxtaposition of a how-to-manual, motivational reading, witty essays and a tremendous amount of serious content. I have now read the book twice and look forward to many more readings. Every chapter asks some critical questions and includes some questions for journaling (nothing onerous). These have been especially valuable to me and may help me to make major life change as the exercises are designed to help determine if you are pursuing the dreams you once (or still) cherished. I am considering a career change but frankly even an attitude change would be a welcome change! And while I am a middle-aged suburban mother working in a very conservative field - I do think there is a "Hip Tranquil Chick" spirit within me. I would not have made that statement prior to reading this book. For all those who need advice, validation, compassion or a smile; this is a must read. Read more ›

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Not just for chicks! November 27, 2006

By Brian J. Winterfeldt

Format:Paperback

I found this book to be helpful not just to all the hip tranquil chicks, but also to the hip tranquil dudes! Kimberly is really speaking to anyone who is looking for meaning and balance in their lives - a particularly difficult struggle in 2006. I found the yoga sequences really helpful, as well as the tips and suggestions on taking the lessons from yoga into other aspects of one's life. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking to deepen their commitment to yoga in their life, or who is curious about yoga and needs an introduction. There is also a great CD that goes with the book that makes an excellent companion!

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars More Than Just Yoga December 11, 2006

By Julia P. Coney

Format:Paperback

Hip Tranquil Chick is unlike any other book on yoga. For starters, Kimberly takes the myth out of yoga and defines in easy terms what yoga truly is, how it has defined her life, and how it can define yours. Kimberly further explains how yoga is prevalent in all aspects of our lives. From the awesome quotes throughout the book and easy reading format, to the various Omwork sections the information is clear, concise and authentic. Kimberly wants everyone to find their inner "tranquilness" with a splash of joie de vivre, whether that's through creativity, fashion, tea sipping or giving of yourself. HTC is a guide that will last a lifetime.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A great modern mix of yoga and lifestyle choices November 26, 2006

By DC Brown

Format:Paperback

Hip Tranquil Chick offers a fabulous, non-dogmatic approach to taking the principles of yoga and applying them to the "real world": finances, career, relationships, civic/social involvement, etc. It really fills a void in the yoga literature. Rather than preaching austerity or turning its nose up at the realities of contemporary life, Hip Tranquil Chick celebrates the modern gal who is fully immersed in the world around her. Kimberly's unique voice shines through in the fun, focused, and insightful text, and the illustrations add a dash of inspiration. I particularly enjoyed the section on creating a Vision Statement for your life - something to return to again and again.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars awe-inspiring November 14, 2006

By mommy of sophia 02

Format:Paperback

This book is jam packed with great information on how to have a balanced soulful life. Since my introduction to Hip tranquil chicks book, podcast, and blog....and hopefully her retreat in June. I am a changed woman. Life is sweet....

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspirational, just like Kimberly December 6, 2006

By Amanda Hirsch

Format:Paperback

I know Kimberly, and reading this book is like spending time with her - it leaves you all revved up to live life more deliciously. This is a great book to turn to on those days when life feels mundane - from yoga poses to home spa ideas to creative journal exercises, you can quickly pick up ideas that help you shake off the blahs and feel inspired.

I believe that practicing yoga on and off the mat fuels rich, meaningful living, and I like how this book provides concrete examples of that...I hope HTC will move more people to try yoga and discover the joy and solace it can provide.