Intentions
are desires we set in motion by the way of our thoughts, our words and the actions we take. Those actions set into motion a powerful impact on our lives and those around us. Sometimes, I remember to ask you to set an intention at the beginning of practice and then revisit it at different times throughout the practice. My hope and intention is to invite you to do this at each practice...I'll get there. :) An intention can be defined as a plan, a purpose, a desire for a particular goal. It can even be a dedication toward someone or something. It can be a prayer, a hope, a word. It can be the answer to the question, "why am I on my mat today" or "what has brought me to this place, right here, right now?"
Setting your intention in your yoga practice is meant to help you get the most out of your time on the mat. Whatever your intention is, it's meant to be a guide through your practice, a place your mind can focus, helping you cultivate slowing down, calming down and grounding. Your intention connects your head to your heart to your body. Intentions can empower us by creating confidence in our practice. They are reminders that we are in control of our own thoughts.
Asking ourselves "What is it I need/want right here and now?"
Some of my favorite answers:
~ I need/want to let go of fear
~ I need/want to accept myself
~ I need/want to forgive
~ Clarity
~ Strength
~ Peace
~ Love
~ Gratitude
Our mats provide us training ground for the lives we want to live. Capturing the moments on your mat for your intention, connecting that to your physical asana, your breath and awareness, dramatically impacts how we move through life. That's your yoga.