Niyama Flow - Reading #2 - SANTOSA

pronounced: Sahn-toe-sha
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WHAT IS SANTOSA?
Contentment
Honoring all that you are
Acceptance
Equanimity
Satisfaction
Stable Harmony
Do your best 

You are truly enough
All that you have is enough
Enjoy the now
No matter what circumstance you are in, be okay in the moment

"The cultivation of contentment is to make the mind a fit instrument for meditation​ as contentment is the seed of the meditative state." - B.K.S. Iyengar
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Use of Pranayma -
Finding contentment
...when you are full of breath and have nothing left to sip in.
...when you have exhaled everything out and sit in emptiness.
...when you are traveling from one extreme to the other. 
...always.

PHYSICAL FOCUS

Pranayama - Nadi Shodhana
Modifications - Understanding where your limits are, accepting them and using them to your benefit 
Heart Openers 
Balancing Postures

PHYSICAL POSTURES

Balasana - Child's Pose
Padangusthasana - Big Toe Pose
Dhanurasana - Bow Pose
Ardha Chandrasana - Half Moon Pose
Bakasana - Crow Pose
Ustrasana - Camel Pose
Navasana - Boat Pose
Viparita Karani - Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose

PERSONAL THOUGHTS

We are all so different. Each of the niyamas we are exploring may affect each person in the class differently. For some, Santosa may be easy-peasy... you continuously think about what you are grateful for, you are supportive of yourself and you are growing from a realistic understanding of where you are starting from. For you, this is a great reminder to keep this mentality strong.

For others, it may be one of the most difficult things in the world for you. You may be imbedded with self-criticism and not even be aware of it. Wherever we are on this spectrum, first we need to accept the reality of who we are and where we are starting. Love yourself fully from exactly where you are in this part of your journey.

What is one thing that is difficult for you to accept about yourself? Bring this to class on Tuesday. This will be your intention. If you are open to it, I'd love for us to share with one another before our physical practice begins. Everything I ask you to do in class is an invitation. Participate as much or as little as you are able. THIS is part of self acceptance as well. 

See you Tuesday!
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~ Wren

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