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Happy February 2, 2021 – Santosha (Contentment)
Happy Tuesday Yogis! Today is Santosha Day! Last time we practiced the second of the Niyamas, Santosha / contentment with ourselves on the mat, by honoring and being gentle with our bodies, and not pushing ourselves to pain. Today we will be focusing on Santosha with our lives, not just our bodies.
Groundhog Day
Today is also Groundhog Day in the US and Canada. This is a very amusing holiday, where we make weather predictions about spring’s return by pulling a rodent out of the ground. My absolute favorite part about this holiday is the comedy movie, Groundhog Day about a reporter covering this quirky holiday.
Today’s Positive Practice suggestion
Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to actively exercise Santosha or contentment by focusing on the present moment, ideally in nature. I have heard if we focus on the past we will be depressed, if we focus on the future we will be anxious, and the key to joy is living in the present moment. A couple of the Yamas and Niyamas reflect this secret of happiness hidden in the “now”. I find one of the easiest ways to do this is to get outside and be active!
Go on a walk, and perhaps literally stop and smell the roses. Take a run and feel the wind on your face. Being around water is always especially calming for me, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river. Perhaps hike and appreciate the beauty around you rather than focusing on finding a perfect selfie spot. Since we are still in the days of social distancing, maybe pack a picnic and head to the back yard or a nearby park, or read a book on your deck or by the window. Or, try a mindfulness exercise if this is new for you. Whatever feels like the best way for you to get out of your little bubble, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.
Also, calmly notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.
Want more Santosha practices? Check out our Santosha Guide!
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Share your Practice
Please comment and share how you did focusing on the present moment today. Did you get outside? Were you able to find contentment in the now? Always remember, be kind!
More Positive Practices
Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!