Written by Staša Mišić, HSTY
What is your intention for 2024? Have you already set it?
Setting intentions for the new year is a powerful practice that combines reflection, goal-setting, and a positive mindset. It allows you to approach the upcoming year with purpose, motivation, and a commitment to personal growth and well-being.
Intentions help to direct your focus and energy toward specific goals or desired outcomes, provide clarity about what you want to achieve, cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness. They create a sense of purpose that can fuel your efforts, especially during challenging times. Positive intentions promote a positive mindset, encourage self-reflection and support personal growth and development. They allow you to align your actions with your values and can empower your decision-making process.
Setting intentions for the new year through a yoga session can be a powerful way to align your mind, body, and spirit. The combination of movement, breath, and focused attention can enhance mindfulness and presence in your yoga practice and your daily life.
Pick a number from 1 to 10 and find out what is your intention and the yoga pose for the year 2024.
- I intend to cultivate mindfulness and be present in each moment, both on and off the mat.
Padmasana
Focus on your breath, bringing your attention to the sensation of each inhale and exhale.
Throughout the practice, bring your attention back to your breath whenever your mind starts to wander.
- I intend to practice gratitude daily, appreciating the beauty and abundance in my life.
Shasankasana
As you are in pose take the time to reflect on the things you are grateful for in your life. Use your breath to anchor yourself in the present and cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation.
- I intend to release what no longer serves me, letting go of negative thoughts, emotions, and attachments.
Uttanasana
As you are in pose, focus on your breath and consciously release any tension or negative energy with each exhale. Letting go is a process that involves both physical and mental release, and this pose can help you facilitate that process.
- I intend to cultivate openness and flexibility, both in my body and in my approach to life’s challenges.
Prasarita Pada Uttanasana
Throughout this posture, focus on your breath and the sensations in your body. Set the intention for openness and flexibility, allowing yourself to release any resistance or tension. Consistent practice will contribute to increased flexibility and a greater sense of openness over time.
- I intend to deepen my connections with myself, others, and the world around me.
Vrksasana
Focus on the connection between your standing foot and the earth, let your breath guide your movements and encourage a mindful connection with pose. As you hold the posture, take moments for self-reflection, deepening your awareness of your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations.
- I intend to build physical and mental strength while finding balance in all aspects of my life.
Virabhadrasana 3
Remember to set a clear intention focusing on strength, balance, and stability. While in pose, pay attention to your breath, engage your muscles, and stay present in the moment. Consistent practice of this pose will contribute to the development of both physical strength and balance over time.
- I intend to nurture the harmony between my mind and body, fostering holistic well-being.
Surya Namasakar
Throughout the sequence, pay attention to your breath, allowing it to guide your movements and create a sense of unity between your mind and body. This practice promotes balance, flexibility, strength, and mental clarity, fostering overall mind-body harmony.
- I intend to practice patience and acceptance, embracing the unfolding of life with grace.
Sarvangasana
Embrace the pose with a sense of patience and acceptance. Let go of the need to push yourself and instead, allow the postures to unfold naturally. Remember that yoga is a practice, and with time and patience, you’ll experience the benefits of increased acceptance and calmness.
- I intend to treat myself with kindness and compassion, embracing self-love and understanding.
Ustrasana
Focus on cultivating a sense of love, kindness, and compassion toward yourself. Use your breath to connect with the posture and bring awareness to the present moment. Feel the opening of your heart center. Remember that self-love is a journey, and your yoga practice can be a supportive and nurturing part of that journey.
- I intend to set clear and achievable goals, working towards my aspirations with dedication and focus.
Paschimottansana
Set the intention for patience and persistence as you work towards your goals.
Remember to hold the pose with intention, focusing on the mental aspect of clarity, determination, and visualization. Let the physical posture guide you toward mental clarity and a sense of purpose in achieving your goals.
When incorporating these intentions into your yoga practice, take a few moments at the beginning or end of your session to reflect on them. Remember that your intentions can evolve, and it’s okay to revisit and adjust them throughout the year 😊
