Local yoga instructor releases mindfulness book for children

Hiba Melhem Stancofski, a 200-hour certified yoga instructor and mindfulness teacher who lives in Lewes, has released her debut children’s book, “I Feel Better Now.”

Though it was created during the COVID-19 pandemic, the lessons taught in this mindfulness book transcend time and age. All too often, difficult emotions and adverse situations can overwhelm people – children and adults alike. By using the power of breath and awareness and simple movements, people can learn to feel better in the moment and cope with stress.

When Alia sees her younger brother Tommy struggling emotionally, physically and mentally during the pandemic, she believes an outdoor adventure is just what he needs. Alia suggests a mindfulness walk. Slowly she coaxes Tommy back to feeling better by teaching him mindfulness breathing and other powerful exercises that help reset his emotional, physical and educational life.

Graphic designer Timothy Bada of Lewes illustrated the book.

“I Feel Better Now” will be available for purchase at Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach, at Surf Bagel and Involution Yoga on Route 1 in Lewes, and at Dogfish Inn and Kids’ Ketch in downtown Lewes. It is also available at amazon.com.

In addition to being an instructor of yoga and mindfulness, Stancofski is also a Reiki Level II healer. Her yoga trainings include vinyasa, yoga for cancer, yoga for trauma level 1 and restorative yoga. She is currently enrolled in a 300-hour yoga teacher training and will be 500YTT-certified by late spring. She is a member of the Yoga Alliance and is a Mindful Schools-certified mindfulness educator.

Stancofski has been teaching yoga for five years. She has taught at the Cancer Support Community, at yoga studios and gyms, at the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition and with a variety of private clients. She is also dedicated to introducing yoga to teenage athletes, teaching several athletic teams at the local public high school.

Stancofski is also part of the Minds Over Matter Initiative and has taught mindfulness in Sussex County schools. This book is her first publication.