Many of you have journeyed with me through the study of the 10 guiding principles of yoga known as the Yamas and Niyamas. With non-harming (ahimsa) as the foundation, contentment (santosha) is such a valued state of being in the yogic tradition that it made it into the top 10!. To me santosha can be described as a sense of fullness, the experience of feeling complete, lacking nothing essential in the moment, resting in the quality of having/doing/being enough. Breathing deeply as we hold this virtue of contentment in our heart-mind could be a lovely antidote to the cultural pressures we tend to feel at this time...a time when expectations others have of us may be high and the expectations we have of ourselves to "do it all" may feel overwhelming.
As we approach the quiet of winter, it feels counterintuitive to push ourselves when all of nature is slowing down, resting, and renewing. Yet, the holiday season often demands that we do just the opposite. How can we, as mindful practitioners committed to caring for ourselves and others, honor what is truly important to us—separate from the expectations of others?
One way is by intentionally mapping out rest stops along our journey, much like pacing ourselves on a long road trip. These rest stops can serve as occasions to recalibrate, reconnect, renew and reestablish our sense of contentment. In the coming weeks, we are offering a variety of opportunities to pause and recharge with the hopes you can join us.
For many of us, the compulsion to “go, go, go” has overstayed its welcome. It’s time to embrace a different rhythm, one that aligns more closely with nature’s wisdom. Pausing periodically to reflect and recharge isn’t just important—it’s essential. While this is a lifelong practice, the holiday season invites us to approach it with greater intention.
To support you, here are some affirmations to carry with you through the season:
• I will decide for myself how much is enough.
• When I listen to my instincts rather than external pressure, I find my natural pace.
• It’s OK to say no—or not this time—to invitations and opportunities.
• Practicing gratitude will help me move closer to contentment in any situation.
Take a moment to reflect: What would it look like to honor your need for rest this season?
Let's embrace the wisdom of santosha together as we navigate this time with intention and care. Please scroll down for details on what is coming up
~ Dec 8th RESTORE Mini Retreat @ NBS
~ Dec 13th Gentle Yoga and Sacred Sounds @ CFP
~ Dec 14, 21, 28 Saturday Morning Yoga @ NBS
J~ an 1st New Years Day Journey to the Heart Mini Retreat @ NBS
Namaste,
Rev Shelley
