Resolve to evolve

Thinking to start off the new year for the better? New year’s resolution is a noteworthy concept to make changes in life. Almost all of us think of some or other resolution to get hooked on to..so how did it devolve into a subconscious exercise in self-loathing? (Lose 5 kgs..Msg to the self – You are fat)..Stop drinking coffee (You are following unhealthy lifestyle).. Call up & thanks friends & the people who has helped you (You are ungrateful). Have you considered celebrating this new year by trading in your tired resolution for a “Sankalp” instead?

Power of Positivity

We Yogi’s favorite word is “Sankalp”. Its Sanskrit word which means determination, will or purpose. The Sankalp means to set an intention with an Yogic twist. Almost all the time; the resolution zeros in on a perceived negative aspect of ourselves – say for e.g., I wish to lose weight in new year hence no more eating out, no more ice cream or chocolate chips or cheese  While setting an intention or resolution with Sankalp in mind – we tend to explore what’s behind the thought or the feeling. Like “I crave chocolate or sweet things to eat when I am stressed out or sad. I will set an intention to become conscious of this craving and allow my feeling to pass, rather than simply filling up my tummy with fats.” This way the intention would allow making changes in your lifestyle keeping you happy & healthy all the time.

Make an Effort – it counts:

Sankalp only focuses on the nobility & appreciates the efforts put in and not on what you are doing incorrect. One of my friends told me once that the new year’s resolution leaves her feeling guilty of not keeping them. Yes right..making the resolution or settling up a Sankalp or an intention is easier than keeping it however with conscious efforts it’s not very difficult. With Sankalp – look back & let it go. Set an intention to open your heart for the new possibilities. A Sankalp has a much more of a global sense than a resolution. It helps me being softer with myself. With Sankalp; the-self hatred that arises from the continuously dwelling on past felony can begin to dissolve. In its place; it’s an exercise in effort and surrendering to the intention opens ourselves to the universe.

Sankalp Setting:

Look Inward:
It is not a day’s practice. Think constantly for several days; set aside some time & write into a journal & dwell on the thought. Mull over your typical feeling or resolution. How do they make you feel? Stressed? Anxious? Excited? Now contemplate how you would like to feel during the new year? You think you can rephrase your result oriented resolutions into something that will help you make your new year’s journey more joyful?

Rephrase It:
Creating a short sentence for your Sankalp will make the life easier. Ensure, not to set limitations based on the fear. For example; rather than setting an intention like “May life bring me only happiness & joy this year” – Consider as “May I be happy & open to what life brings me”

Be Firm but Fair:
Change is very rigid & it does not happen overnight. When you stray from the essence of your Sankalp, don’t berate yourself. Instead, gently remind yourself of your intention. However be firm. The best idea is to incorporate the Sankalp in to your daily life routine. Use it as a mantra during your Pranayam & Meditation practice. Post it on your mirror, computer, phone & on the things which remain in front of you most of the time or simply say it to yourself quietly before going to sleep.

Resolve to evolve… Set up a Sankalp…!!