Incorporating Santosha (Contentment) in Your Yoga Practice

The theme for this week’s lessons (w.c. 1st November) is Santosha or contentment.  One often thinks of contentment as the fulfilment of desires, but yoga teaches us that this kind of happiness is short-lived.  Desires create more desires and more cravings, like a well that can never be filled.

Contentment develops from an experience of accepting whatever life has brought us.  It includes being mindful of living in the moment, something we do when we practice yoga postures.  Once you decide that whatever you have in that moment is all you need, contentment will find a place in your life.   Accept your body, ability and your limitations as they are right now and enjoy the journey.  Happiness is a way of travel, not a destination.

Find time this week to experience the things that give you a happy feeling, e.g. taking a walk in the woods, relaxing in a warm bath, spending time with loved ones.