At this time of year its natural to focus ahead, and think about goals, aspirations and hopes. This leads into New Year Resolutions.
The problem with a Resolution is it’s firmness – I will, I must – no room for error or failure, I will, I must. Inevitably things change. We look back, “oh well, that didn’t work out”. Maybe we try again in 12 months; Maybe we admit defeat; Maybe we get into a narrative of self criticism and dwelling on failure.
It’s quite a harsh, and pressurised, way to treat ourselves, and not very kind.
Can Yoga philosophy give us a different perspective? It can. Sankalpa.
Sankalpa broadly translates as intention, or heart felt desire. Some Yogi’s set a Sankalpa every time they practice, in class or at home.
The approach of Sankalpa can also be a good way to re-frame our aspirations for the New Year in a softer manner as intentions rather than the harshness of musts and wills. This is a kinder approach to New Year changes framed in self care and a positive outlook rather than setting ourselves hard and firm goals with the pressure that brings.
So maybe take a few moments this New Years time to think of your Sankalpa? Your intentions. And approach them with kindness.
What are mine?
Well, three aspects to my Sankalpa for 2025. First to get to prioritise getting to bed a bit earlier – I am terrible for burning the midnight oil. Second, I’m a vociferous reader but other things have got the better of me recently, so I’m working towards a book a week. Finally 2024 saw me moving more towards a plant based diet, and I want to develop that further in 2025 – I don’t think that means full veganism for me, but an axis tilted towards plant based.
Have a great New Year, and I hope to see you in the studio shortly.
^jess
Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash
