Sankalpa Setting Intention
Creating change happens only when you have a roadmap: affirming where I want to be, and how I will get there. This is the practice of Sankalpa or setting intention, an ancient yogic practice, and the first step to creating positive change.
Working only short term, research has shown that willpower alone does not create lasting change. Neuroscience tells us that willpower is weak, comes from our prefrontal cortex, and is inherently limited. For real and long term change to take place, the ancient sages knew we needed to access our deeper layers of mind and wisdom in order to plant seeds of change. This is the practice of Sankalpa.
Sankalpa is the intention of our truest Self, not our logical, rational, controlling self. A way to access this deep place is to ask: What is my hearts deepest longing?
From this insight, create a short statement composed of positive words, and most importantly, in present tense, as though it is already happening. Here are some examples:
“I now sit for 10 minutes and focus on my breath.”
“I flow through life with ease and peace, I am relaxed.”
“I am healed, healthy and whole.”
“Everything is okay just as it is.”
Sankalpa speaks to our deeper layers and unconscious mind, where we are much more receptive to suggestion and change than our thinking mind. It is here at this place of our root that we can change our habitual thoughts and feelings.
Be confident that you can create your own reality. Whatever you believe is what you create, and that is what you become. By changing input into mind, the Sankalpa, and repeating it, there is a tendency for the mind to accept it. Repeat your Sankalpa numerous times in your day. Each time you sit to begin a meditation or yoga practice or class, begin by repeating your Sankalpa. Stating it out loud 3 times, then silently 3 times is very powerful. It is potent to use your Sankalpa with a hand Mudra to ground it in your body and connect with larger universal forces. (If you would like one of my Mudra handouts to help you find one, email your request to me at Jennifer@SacredFireYoga.com).
When you have found your true Sankalpa, keep it until it manifests. This could be weeks, months, or years. It may over time shift or transform and be open to it being alive and evolving.
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