Embrace the New Year with Yogic Resolutions
Ideally, we should start each day with the intention of forming a stronger connection with our soul. The New Year is the perfect time to set resolutions the yogic way. In yoga science, a resolution is called ‘Sankalpa,’ which means determination.
The Sankalpa provides an opportunity to create space for reflection and to advance in life more meaningfully. Setting resolutions the yogic way is advantageous because they are realistic and sustainable.
Kickstart the new year with these yogic resolutions:
1. Develop a Regular Practice
This year, make a Sankalpa to establish a steady yoga routine. Step onto your yoga mat each day with this resolution in mind. This practice will help you connect to your purpose and give you the strength to achieve it. Consider picking a word or mantra to repeat every time you practice yoga, which will help you stay focused on your goal. Focus on the intention rather than just the outcome. Enjoy the journey, and you will soon develop a lifelong habit of regular yoga practice.
2. Form Good Habits
Alongside committing to a yoga practice, it is essential to form habits that support your yogic journey. In the New Year, create positive habits and eliminate negative ones. Incorporate these habits gradually into your lifestyle, and they will become an effortless part of your routine.
- Consistency: Do not skip your yoga practice unless it is absolutely unavoidable.
- Nature: Spend time in nature by going for walks and performing meditation outdoors.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Keep yourself hydrated and consume sattvic food.
- Lifestyle: Follow a pragmatic yoga lifestyle.
3. Schedule “Me Time”
In the New Year, prioritize yourself by adding “Me time” to your daily schedule. This time is crucial for rejuvenation and can include self-introspection, reading classical yoga texts, or going on a yoga retreat. Quality “Me time” is essential for connecting with the self and fostering spirituality, leading to a harmonious life for both body and mind.
4. Embrace Presence and Gratitude
We often live in the past or the future, which can create difficulties for ourselves. Yoga advocates living in the present moment. Resolve to live in the present every day and be grateful for what you have. Meditation is a fantastic way to find presence and gratitude in your life. By living in the moment, you can reduce anxiety and stress, breathe easier, and let go of negativity.
5. Commit to Digital Detox
In today’s digital era, escaping from screens can be challenging. However, committing to a digital detox is essential. Excessive digital dependency can harm your body, mind, and soul. Resolve to reduce your cellphone use and engage more in activities and projects. Instead of spending time on social media, invest your energy in Karma Yoga, the practice of serving others and the path to self-realization.
6. Eat Sattvic Food
Become a yogi at heart by not only practicing yoga but also dedicating yourself to a yogic diet. Eating a sattvic and vegetarian diet goes beyond mere nutrition; it is about mindful eating. A mindful eater consumes food based on hunger cues for maximum benefit. The yogic diet increases prana, the vital force for living. Resolve to embrace a yogic diet for a long, healthy life.
7. Enkindle Love and Compassion
With yoga, cultivate love and compassion for both yourself and others. This New Year, commit to self-compassion and embrace other behavioral changes. By accepting your failures with compassion, you can improve your life. Meditating daily is a powerful way to foster self-compassion, helping you stick to your resolutions and build a better life.
Conclusion
Start the New Year with a peaceful and joyful approach by embracing these yogic resolutions. By incorporating regular yoga practice, forming supportive habits, scheduling “Me time,” embracing presence and gratitude, committing to a digital detox, eating sattvic food, and cultivating love and compassion, you will set yourself on a path to a harmonious and fulfilling life. For more information on how to integrate these practices into your life, explore our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training, and 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training courses, or join us for an Ayurveda Retreat for a holistic experience.