Why Set an Intention?

In Sanskrit, sankalpa means intention.  An intention is a promise you make to yourself about what you intend to do, be, say, etc.  An intention is a way to put positive thinking and desires into action.

At the beginning of each yoga class I teach, I offer my students a few moments of silence to set a personal intention for their practice.  I often make suggestions such as set your intention around something in your life you’re grateful for.  Or set it based on a quality you want to improve (patience, breathing, listening, right effort) in your life and/or yoga practice.

I wonder “do they set an intention?”.  And if not, what is going through they’re heads during this moment of silence.

A consistent yoga practice has the power to transform not only your physical body, but your life.  When the body starts to change, your mind and heart begin to open up in ways you can’t imagine.  Top your practice off with an intention and you’ll really start to feel a new meaning to your yoga on and off the mat.

Intention setting is an invaluable tool and one that takes little time, but does require commitment and focus.  It’s also best to keep it simple –one word or phrase.  Let it become your mantra for the practice or your day.

If you’re seeking a change in your life, intention setting might assist in the process. Try it!  What do you have to lose?

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