Intentions

At the start of every class I have been introducing a "Sanskrit Word of the Week" where I tell you its meaning and we set an intention.  Usually the intention and sanskrit word create a theme that helps drive our asana practice.  But what exactly is an intention??

“Our intention creates our reality.” Wayne Dyer

The sanskrit word for intention is "Sankalpa"- "it’s a representation of a desire or positive thought that you want to manifest in the world, a promise you make to yourself." 

The intention is set at the beginning of class so that we can reflect on what that is and connect it with our physical practice, or asanas.  We want to refer back to this intention throughout class and let it stay with us even after we leave our mats.  

For the longest time, I went to yoga because I wanted to be more flexible, put my body in crazy positions it's never been in before, and overall yoga just made me feel good.  I couldn't explain why until I realized that over time I was unintentionally creating self awareness, reflecting thoughtfully about myself and influence in the world, and I was changing my actions in a positive way because of it.  I didn't know if my intentions set in class were "right" or what it even meant to set an intention.  I just knew that I could create my own space for the time I was on my mat and learn; learn about myself, learn about focus, learn about a practice of an ancient culture, and open myself to a world of possibilities beyond myself.

I created a list of themes and sanskrit words we've covered in class so far.  Come back to the intention you set in your class.  Did you carry out your promise to yourself?  Did it cultivate mental clarity?  Emotional well being?  Did you even notice a change in your lifestyle?  Reflect on these things and I'll meet you on your mat. 

Namaste,

Amanda 

Collection of Past Words and Themes:

• Prana (Energy)- Creating and Sustaining Positive Energy
• Vishudda (Communication/Throat 4th Chakra)- Ways to communicate and motivate others
• Svadhyaya (Self Study)- Body awareness and learning how to notice slight changes in our bodies
• Anahata (Heart/4th Chakra)- How we show love to ourselves and others
• Drishti (Focal Point)- Keeping your eye on the goal and setting steps to reach it
• Ananda (Pure Bliss)- Finding the good in any situation

Week #5- Anahata +vinyasa

We are officially through the first month of yogaRX!  Thank you so much for trying out the class and being patient as we sort through the early kinks.  I have really enjoyed seeing repetitive faces in class and love meeting the new people who come to try it out.

This week we are revisiting our shoulder/trap mobility.  Early on in the week at CF we have been working our shoulders intensely.  This week to recover the shoulders will get some extra attention.  We are focusing on Anahata (the heart) which means a lot of "heart openers" or back bending to undo the hunching our bodies form throughout the day.

Shout Outs!
-New mirror
-People leaving feedback using the survey
-First video tutorial
-Alex's first class at CF Stapleton

ANANDA

Yoga- without the philosophy we are just stretching.  

Yoga is a self-study; a practice in body and mind awareness.  Yoga takes dedication, time, and openness.  Therefore, in practicing we will always have an intention or a reason for bringing ourselves to the mat.  We dedicate that time to our personal  intention and think about it often as it's weaved in every movement.

Thus... "Word of the Week" has begun!  Sanskrit is the classical Indian language that yoga is derived from.  Sanskrit words are the original names for asana (posture) and philosophy in our yoga practice.  This week's Word of the Week is ananda.  Ananda is finding bliss in everything.  It's the happiest form of yourself.  Sometimes it's easy to dwell on the hard stuff or negative emotions, but ananda offers an opportunity to find the light in the situation.  Bad things happen (I like stating the obvious), but you can choose your reaction:  negativity or happiness.  It's your decision... and your energy is contagious.  So choose ananda and spread your bliss.