In yoga, an instructor will often begin class referencing or offering an intention for the class/practice. In yoga we follow a sequence of poses leading up to this intention.
According to the western world definition, an intention is an aim, goal or planned outcome or expectation. Relying heavily on expectations and specific goals can be dangerous as I covered in last weeks' article. We end up focusing so much on the perceived outcome or goal to achieve that we forget to enjoy the journey, we forget to engage in gratitude of the moments that make up the final outcome.
What if rather than leading with intention or a specific goal coming into the new year or our daily yoga practice, we met newness with recognition and realization? Why?? The definition of realization ~ the act of fully becoming aware. Recognition ~ acknowledge of existence.
Applying these simple words to life ... Realization within the present, this exact moment, your exact self just as you are at this moment. Recognition of the journey leading up to your present self, recognition and full acceptance of the peaks and valleys within that journey that produced the living creature, inside and out, that you are presently. Fully aware of who you are NOW, acknowledgement of who you were in the past and embracing the present as each moment of the future becomes your NOW.
This year let's replace goals, future aims and resolutions with:
RECOGNITION.
REALIZATION.
ACCEPTANCE.
Fully aware of the present moment, acknowledgement and embracing who we are in the moment.
Happy Recognition Year!
Written by Brooke Halperin
Brooke teaches every Thursday at 6pm at Good Juju Lombard. Be sure to check out Brooke's classes. Book it at goodjujuyoga.com