Santosha

Contentment. This is the practice of not wanting the things that we don’t have and enjoying the things we do have, and intentionally never complaining. The ability to sit with oneself, without being affected by negative emotions is the virtue of Santosha.

Contentment - the practice of not wanting the things that we do not have, enjoying the things we do have, and intentionally never complaining.

The destination is but a small piece of life. By fully accepting where you are, you free up mental space for imagination and virtuous action.

By taking the Seat of the Observer, people and things become reflective of what is going on inside of you, not what is happening to you. The lesson is in the art of the response.

Balance the executive function, or inner critic, with the mindset of a student.

“It is okay to make mistakes while learning.” Try this affirmation to prevent congestion between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.

Confusion resides within the illusion that duality does not exist. For example, prosperity is only possible through hardship, and wealth from poverty - one must be sick to get well. There is no separation, only cycles. Ignorant “Like” or “Dislike” of anything - creates separation. The thing we like/dislike actually resides inside of us, not the thing. Contentment is cultivated by constant reevaluation of where one is, to see the next steps, to get where one wants to go, and best serve others in the moment.

Contentment involves intuition - as trust reflects back our understanding of people and things. Boundaries and investments establish a firm foundation in self-worth, granting self-care. How we show up is either going to nourish or destroy the world around us - by being content in our skin, it gives others the freedom to be content in theirs.

Confusion resides within the illusion that duality does not exist. For example, prosperity is only possible through hardship, and wealth from poverty - one must be sick to get well. There is no separation, only cycles. Ignorant “Like” or “Dislike” of anything - creates separation. The thing we like/dislike actually resides inside of us, not the thing. Contentment is cultivated by constant reevaluation of where one is, to see the next steps, to get where one wants to go, and best serve others in the moment. Does this bring frustration or anger?

How long has the ego held onto this?

The self-defeating reel of the inner critic does not define us - it frees us with the wisdom of habit. To let go of suffering - one must validate the pain that initially caused it, and observe the discomfort (validation to see where it is coming from), in order to let go. The lesson is one to pass forward - to relieve others from the cycle of suffering.

Change allows humility and a greater perspective in relating to others. The pain in somebody does not identify the essence of who they are, but merely darkness that requires light.

On the mat.

Balasana | Childs Pose

Out breath, shoulders melt away from the spine.
In breath, lengthens the spine.

Forehead roots to the ground.
Torso draped.
Muscles compressed
Breath, steadily and with ease.
For today.
Perform a random act of kindness. If someone acknowledges you. Start over.

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
- Galatians 5:13