My Books

Little David and His Dreaming Tree

Olive's Adventures in Banderas Bay

 is an inspiring children’s book about a young sea turtle who embarks on an incredible journey through life’s ups and downs. Born on a beach in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, Olive faces numerous obstacles as she navigates the treacherous waters of the ocean, all while staying true to her instincts and her innate sense of adventure. From the perils of pollution and plastic waste to the joy of discovering new creatures in the deep blue sea, Olive’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of the natural world.

My Life at Spirit Rock

My Life at Spirit Rock” is a charming children’s book that takes readers on a journey through the enchanted forest of Spirit Rock. The story follows two little deer siblings, Metta and Karuna, as they explore the magic of the forest, encountering a diverse array of creatures that call Spirit Rock their home.

As the young deer siblings explore the forest, they encounter and befriend a kind farmer named Jonathan, who teaches them about the joys of gardening and how to care for all living creatures on Mother Earth. Through Farmer Jonathan’s permaculture garden, Metta and Karuna learn about the interconnectedness of all living things, and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the world. They also learn the value of eating only nourishing fruits and vegetables and respecting all life by eating only plant-based meals.

Princess Silvara's Adventures in San Francisco

In the enchanting land of Marin County, nestled amidst the rolling hills, lies a breathtaking mountain named Princess Silvara, also known as Mt. Tamalpais. Silvara, with her lush forests and commanding presence, enjoys her peaceful slumber, resting above all the other mountains. However, every so often, she awakens from her tranquil repose to embark on a magical adventure in the vibrant city of San Francisco. Join Silvara on her adventure as she spends her day climbing Coit Tower, riding the famous San Francisco cable cars, playing with the Sea Lions at Fisherman’s wharf, eating chocolate at Ghirardelli Square and going for a hike amongst the Giant Redwoods!

“Silvara’s San Francisco Adventure” is a tale of enchantment, a journey through the heart of a city, and a celebration of the harmonious dance between nature and human endeavor. Join Princess Silvara as she weaves through the vibrant tapestry of San Francisco, leaving a trail of wonder and inspiration in her wake. This captivating story reminds us that even the mightiest mountains have their own dreams to pursue and their own adventures to embark upon.

 

The Space Between Your Thoughts...

Introduce your child to the wonders of their mind with the enchanting and insightful book, “The Space Between Your Thoughts.” Within the pages of this delightful story, children will embark on a journey with a young girl and her dog, and a young boy and his bird, exploring the profound concept of living in harmony with nature.

Immerse your child in the captivating world of self-discovery through stunning artwork that brings the narrative to life. This small yet impactful book serves as a valuable tool for engaging children in the greatest act of self-care. As they follow the adventures within, they’ll learn to dream and visualize and access the space between their thoughts. They will discover the incredible power of their breath—a tool they can access anytime, anywhere.

“The Space Between Your Thoughts” not only entertains, but also provides a subtle education on breath and visualization, imparting essential life skills to children. At the heart of the story lies the teaching of self-regulation through the breath, unlocking a range of benefits such as increased self-confidence, self-awareness, and improved decision-making skills. The narrative extends beyond the pages, offering parents practical exercises and eight steps on breathing at the back of the book to assist their children in mastering this valuable technique, especially before bedtime.

In a special note to parents, the book emphasizes the significance of noticing the space between thoughts—a sanctuary where attention can rest and the mind can experience rejuvenating rest. By practicing the art of observing thoughts and letting them go, children can cultivate a growing space of awareness, providing their brains with the essential rest it needs amidst the constant stream of thoughts.

Teaching your children the magic of their breath and how to harness the space between their thoughts is a gift that will empower them with essential life skills, fostering self-confidence, social awareness, and relationship skills. “The Space Between Your Thoughts” is more than a storybook; it’s a guide to unlocking the boundless potential within every child. Bonus that they will grow up to be a grounded, calm, and kind adult and teach their children, your grandchildren, the same.

Thank you for taking the time to teach your child how to breathe. Namaste.

Yoga Trees: Make Like a Tree, Breathe and Pose

Join two adorable tree friends, accompanied by their faithful companions, Norman the dove and Lucky the puppy, as they journey through the magical world of yoga! In this delightful picture book, children will learn about the 26 Bikram Yoga Asanas, or poses, through the playful adventures of our tree friends.

As the pages turn, readers will giggle with delight as they see trees gracefully striking poses like the Standing Bow Pulling Pose, Camel Pose, and Cobra Pose, all depicted with charming illustrations of our lovable characters.

But why should kids “make like a tree and pose”? Through the gentle guidance of our tree friends and their adorable companions, Norman the dove and Lucky the golden puppy, children will discover the many benefits of yoga, from improving flexibility and strength to calming the mind and body. As our tree friends show us, yoga isn’t just about stretching and bending – it’s about finding balance, inner peace, and joy in movement.

With its enchanting and engaging illustrations, “Yoga Trees: Make Like a Tree, Breathe and Pose” is the perfect introduction to yoga for children. Parents’ instructions can be found at the back of the book where each pose is explained in simple terms, making it easy for young readers to understand and follow along. You can explain to your child what the pose does to help their body become healthy and strong, along with instructions on how to do it! So come along and join the fun – let’s make like a tree, breathe and pose together!

About Author

Ruma Tenbrink lives in a sleepy Northern California hamlet known as Hercules. She lives in her dream cottage with her handsome husband, genius kids, and adorable Chihuahuas, Pepsi and Sugar, and their little brother Baby’s spirit. Ruma draws upon her lifelong love of animals and nature when writing. She enjoys writing in her little cottage garden while consuming breath-
taking views of Mt. Tamalpais, Mt. Saint Helena, and the dancing waters of the San Pablo Bay. You will most likely hear the sounds of the Dave Matthews Band coming from her back garden if you ever stop by to say hello.

Books narrated by me

Breathwork 101

Eat Like a Local

Love at First Bark

Beyond Yoga

If you enjoy bedtime stories, listen to my other podcast here:

Yoga Trees: Make Like a Tree, Breathe and Pose

Join two adorable tree friends, accompanied by their faithful companions, Norman the dove and Lucky the puppy, as they journey through the magical world of yoga! In this delightful picture book, children will learn about the 26 Bikram Yoga Asanas, or poses, through the playful adventures of our tree friends.

As the pages turn, readers will giggle with delight as they see trees gracefully striking poses like the Standing Bow Pulling Pose, Camel Pose, and Cobra Pose, all depicted with charming illustrations of our lovable characters.

But why should kids “make like a tree and pose”? Through the gentle guidance of our tree friends and their adorable companions, Norman the dove and Lucky the golden puppy, children will discover the many benefits of yoga, from improving flexibility and strength to calming the mind and body. As our tree friends show us, yoga isn’t just about stretching and bending – it’s about finding balance, inner peace, and joy in movement.

With its enchanting and engaging illustrations, “Yoga Trees: Make Like a Tree, Breathe and Pose” is the perfect introduction to yoga for children. Parents’ instructions can be found at the back of the book where each pose is explained in simple terms, making it easy for young readers to understand and follow along. You can explain to your child what the pose does to help their body become healthy and strong, along with instructions on how to do it! So come along and join the fun – let’s make like a tree, breathe and pose together!