Before we commence a mindfulness class, or a yoga class, intention setting exercises are common. Yet often, we might brushed it off or flippantly come up with a ‘why I am here’ reason in the mind. That’s that. When I first started my yoga practice 10 years ago, I admit I am one of those. Impatient and yelling within, ‘Get on with the class!’
When gunning for the end goal fails
We tend to be in a hurry to do, to act. It happens as much in our daily life — we dive into a workout without noticing the body needs a warm up. We shoot our mouth without noticing our anger and pain. When our full attention is only focused upon the outcome, it is harder to sustain the action because often we don’t see the results quickly. After all, most of our desired outcomes (e.g. fit body, career success, mastering a skill, enlightenment) don’t happen overnight.
A ‘clear goal’ isn’t the only way to sustain motivation
I had a particularly moving yoga practice once when the teacher suggested to dedicate each movement to the benefit of the world. It connected with me deeply. It was such joy, moment to moment, because even the simplest movement of raising an arm now holds richness, and purpose. I did not have to wait till the end of class to feel fulfilled or complete.
If there is no conscious intention, our actions are likely run by our autopilot habits. We are more likely to feel distracted, empty or lost, hence question the journey, and are more likely to give up. A clear and focused intention, backed by strong respect for each moment, helps to reinforce our consistency and motivation. Ultimately, don’t we want a certain outcome because we long to feel a certain way?
Why not begin to feel that ‘certain way’ right away?
All about the how
Thus, might it be more useful when our intention encompasses an attitude, or a perspective that we wish to frame the entire journey we are in. Instead of fixating on ‘why I am here’, instead ask these ‘how’ questions —
‘How do I like to approach today’s practice?’
‘How do I like to feel?’
‘Is there an emotion or attitude that I like showing up more in my life?’
Ease, beginner’s mind, kindness, presence, playfulness.. whatever it might be.
Set the intention.
There is no right or wrong intention
When it feels uncertain, drop away from your mind and listen to your body. When you formulate your intentions, do you sense a reassurance and helpfulnes? A lightening or a relief because you feel supported or inspired by this intention? You can set different intentions daily as our energy level and mood fluctuates and requires different types of care.
No hurry at all.
Practice by practice.
Moment to moment will do.
So.. what is intention
Not based on any dictionaries but gathered from my ever-changing pool of humble experiences -
Intention /ɪnˈtɛnʃ(ə)n/ noun
A compass that stems from the depth of our innate wisdom, the combination of mind, body and heart and possibly even the soul, to guide us moment to moment; with little care for the destination.
All you have to do is.. lean in.
