Core Intentions

What is at the core center of our artistic and individually unique practices in life?

For me, there are infinite reasons why I practice yoga: To balance my chakras, to reduce anxiety and stress, to truly understand my body, to become closer to my lover, to be in control of the energy around me, to expand my aura, to become more flexible, to physically see progress, to improve my digestive system, to strengthen my body, to focus my mind, to lengthen my spine, to stay true to my inner self, to build friendships, to release negativity, and to create all things beautiful and inspirational.

Pincha Mayurasana (Forearm Stand) variation

However, the center can be extremely difficult to find. Especially in the beginning.

When I began practicing last year, UAB CRCT yoga instructor Shawn Galin taught his classes something that I have continued to this day. Before each practice, instructor Shawn asked us to set an intention for the class. At first, I was a little confused and honestly a little intimidated by this simple task. Although, as a self-improvement freak, I immediately raced through the list in my head of all the things I wanted to improve on. For many months, my intentions were often trivial, college-girl desires such as, "I want to improve my grade in this class" or "I want to eat healthier." While these are undeniably healthy and productive goals to set, they weren't what I truly desired. In fact, it wasn't until I stopped asking myself what I wanted that I truly received it.

My first mistake was beginning my intentions with, "I want." Everyone wants something, but when you apply your desire to your practice, you will attain it. Wanting is superficial, but willing produces real-life progress! I finally understood this amidst a yoga high in a 105*F Bikram yoga class (perhaps influenced by my delusional state), which brings me to my next point.

Your body knows you better than you think; so, let it set the intention for you. This seems like a catch-22 because we are conditioned to set an intention before embarking on that mission. Don't be afraid to begin your practice without a single idea of what that intention is. Just be open to what your body tells you. If you are truly engaged in your practice, it never halts or ends; it can only begin. So what if you realize your intention in the last 10 minutes of a 90-minute class…or even three days after.  That intention is infinite, as is your capability to achieve it, as is the consequences it produces. Once, I asked a yoga instructor what influences him to guide a class. He simply responded, "My movements lead my words."

Bakasana (Crow Pose)

After I learned these two things, my body taught me the rest. For example, the concentration or depletion of energy from certain parts of my body revealed inner turmoil or strengths. Once I began setting intentions based on my body's reaction to my practice, all other facets of my life became simpler, more enjoyable, and more relatable. 

The best intention I ever set for myself is this: I will thank myself for all my hard work and dedication.

So, I pose these questions to you, dear reader. Is there a center to your practice? How do you set intentions? And most importantly, have you given yourself a "thank you" and pat on the back for all your hard work? Reader, I'd like to thank you. I'd like to thank you for taking the time out of your schedule to read this blog. I'd like to thank you for caring enough about yourself to have a practice and to set these intentions. I'd like to thank you for being YOU and for letting your light radiate wherever you are.

Shine on, beautiful being!