One of biggest benefits of Yoga is when the power of intention or Sankalpa is used to sow the seeds of transformation. Generally one is focused on how Yoga can benefit the body, make it leaner and more flexible, or the mind more calmer. However, Yoga can also lead to changes in our being, in how we perceive our life situations and how we show up in life. In this article we will explore how the use of Yogic tool Sankalpa, or intention, can bring about changes in our lives at a deep level.
The practice of Yoga creates the space for us to reconnect with our innermost being, our true nature. As our mind calms, we hear the whispers from the depths of our core without being distracted by external voices or even our inner critic. We know what aspect of our core we need to bring forward, to strengthen, what attitude we need to cultivate, to deal with whatever we need to deal with. As we get clear of our need, we are ready to set our Sankalpa or Intention. A Sanskrit word, where “San” means to connect with our highest truth, and “kalpa” means a vow. Setting a Sankalpa, is sowing the seeds of change. A Sankalpa resonates with our entire being. It feels right, it excites our soul and we feel the faith and conviction to manifest it. It also guides our actions, if we allow it too.
Sankalpa
Let’s take an example, this week for me continues to be about “being in service”. Given Covid crisis in India, a lot of my time daily is spent talking to my friends and family, finding ways to alleviate suffering there. And now with my Labrador dog going for her operation tomorrow, this week is focussed on her healing and comfort. My Sankalpa of “being in service” is inspiring my actions, where my time is spent and when I am distracted. It guides me back to where I should be channelling my energy. Nothing else matters right now but being in service. My energy goes where my attention goes.
Every Yoga practice generally starts with an intention setting. The act of listening to our inner self and being able to articulate our intention is not easy. It requires the mind to be calm, to have courage to accept our need and the faith that it is possible. It’s not easy but practice makes perfect.
Set Your Intentions Step by Step
So, I encourage you to get better at setting your intentions. Few steps to follow whilst setting your intention:
- The Sankalpa or intention is like an affirmation, it is in the present tense as if it is already true. E,g, I am strong, or I am feeling stronger day by day.
- You can set your intention daily or have the same intention for a period of time. The most important thing is that it should resonate with you.
- Keep reminding yourself of your intention, repeat it like a mantra till it is ingrained into your sub conscious mind
- When you practice Yoga on the mat, we bring it forward in every asana (posture) you do, every breath you take, practice your intention on the mat, so that when you step off the mat, you carry this energy into your day.
The Power of Intentions!
Your intention will be the seeds of change you will sow to shape your life. So as you step on your mat tomorrow, be ready to set your intention, when you wake up in the morning set your intention. Find your best moment, when you can quiet your mind and listen to your soul. Set your intention and let it inspire your thoughts, words and actions.
To set your intentions, reflect on:
- What aspects of your inner being you wish to bring forward?
- Which attitude do you need to cultivate for the life situations you face?
- What will serve you the most?
I challenge you to commit to setting your intention for the next 7 days and observe what happens next.
AUTHOR: ANITA
Having grown up in India, I encountered yoga very early on joining morning walkers in the neighbourhood for yoga or later as a teen being stretched by a long bearded, white robed Indian yogi. However, I truly fell in love with Yoga in Switzerland, when my inquisitiveness and curiosity led to a teacher’s certificate in my hands.
