Setting Positive Intentions Inspired by Yogic Wisdom
Inspired by Yogic Wisdom is guiding principle #1 from my previous post How to Navigate Stormy Seas
In the vast sea of life, we often find ourselves sailing through stormy waters. These turbulent times can challenge our sense of self-worth and inner peace. But fear not! Just as a skilled sailor uses their navigational tools to find their way home, we can use the power of positive intentions, inspired by yogic philosophy, to guide us through life’s storms. As Jon Kabat-Zinn wisely said, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”
1. Preparing for the Journey Imagine standing on the deck of your life’s ship, ready to embark on a new day. Take a moment to quiet your mind, find a comfortable seat, and close your eyes. This is your preparation, the calm before the storm.
2. Acknowledging the Storm “In the sea of life, there are always waves on the water,” as Jon Kabat-Zinn reminds us. Recognize that these waves can take various forms—sometimes they are big, sometimes small, and sometimes almost imperceptible. They are stirred up by the winds of stress and change, just as our minds are stirred by life’s challenges.
3. Invoking the Beacon Picture a brilliant beacon of positivity within you, piercing through the storm clouds like a lighthouse in the night. This is your intention, your guiding light, your commitment to ahimsa (non-harming yourself, others and the world around you). It radiates warmth and clarity.
4. Radiating Positivity As your inner beacon shines, visualize it dispelling the darkness of self-doubt. Just as a lighthouse cuts through the fog, let positivity fill your being, warming your heart and illuminating your path.
5. Cultivating Resilience Life’s storms may be fierce, but like a sturdy ship, you are built to withstand them. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, knowing that you have the strength to weather any turbulence. Remembering every storm brings a fresh new beginning.
6. Finding Your Grace Imagine grace as a compass that guides you with elegance and compassion. Set the intention to treat yourself with grace and love, in alignment with yogic principles. This is your inner North Star.
7. Charting Your Course Your intentions are your map. Define your positive intentions for the day or a specific situation. Whether it’s self-compassion, patience, or self-encouragement, make a conscious decision to embody these qualities.
8. Practicing Self-Compassion “When the waves of self-criticism crash upon you,” remember Jon Kabat-Zinn’s words, “you can’t stop the waves.” But you can practice self-compassion. Be as gentle and loving to yourself as you would be to a fellow traveler in the storm.
9. Navigating with Awareness As you go about your day, stay mindful of your intentions. Let them be your compass, guiding your choices and decisions toward positivity, resilience, and grace.
10. Celebrating Progress Like a sailor celebrating each milestone on their journey, acknowledge and celebrate your successes in embodying your intentions. Recognize the growth and transformation within yourself.
11. Course Correction If you stray from your positive intentions, don’t berate yourself. Instead, remember that “the water’s waves are churned up by the winds, which come and go and vary in direction and intensity,” just like the winds of life’s challenges. Gently steer your ship back on course, reaffirming your commitment to self-compassion and positive intentions.
12. Embracing the Calm With time and practice, you’ll notice the storm clouds gradually dissipating. Your inner world will become a more peaceful and compassionate place, just as the seas calm after a tempest.
In life’s unpredictable journey, setting positive intentions inspired by yogic wisdom is like having a reliable compass to navigate through stormy seas. Your inner beacon of positivity, resilience, and grace will guide you toward a more compassionate and peaceful existence.
Embrace these principles, and let them be your guiding light in the darkest of times. Remember, you are the captain of your ship, and with positive intentions, you can steer your course with courage and love. As Jon Kabat-Zinn wisely said, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”
Email jayne@innovativewellness.ca to share how this post helped you.
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