Tag: santosha

July 2023 Summer Fun & Flow: Work & Workaholics Day

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Fun, Holiday, N2-Santosha, Philosophy

Table of contents

Happy July 5, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: Work & Workaholics Day

Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a special Santosha and Mindfulness Summer Fun Month to align with July’s Anti-Boredom Month. We will have 31 different practices and activities to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state. Check out this month’s Introduction for more on mindfulness, flow, and Tea Ceremony – my recommended substitute practice for any suggested daily Fun Practice this month you do not want to try.

Work and Flow

Today is National Workaholics Day. This day is not about overworking, but about adding more balance between work and life, one of our Brahmacharya / Middle-Path reflections and practices. However, we are in the middle of a series on flow state, and work is a great place to try to find flow! Some of us have jobs but not careers, and that’s okay! I actually found it much easier to find flow scanning items at the cash register of a grocery store, or rolling silverware as a bartender and waitress than when I was often interrupted in the middle of flowing through an accounting project. Today, I recommend either reviewing your daily tasks for some which you can target as a flow activity at work. Check out this article for tips for finding flow at work, or this article if you are struggling finding flow at work.

Or, if your work does not allow for this kind of state or you are not working, I strongly recommend doing some yard work or cleaning! I find these tasks to be perfect for flow state – your mind and hands will be busy, and you can really lose yourself in the moment. I find somewhat repetitive but not mindless tasks such as washing dishes, cleaning floors, or mowing a lawn to be the best personally, but please let me know if another activity helps trigger your ‘lost in the moment’ state!

cool garden with withered agave plant surrounded by small leafy shrubs and ferns - meditation flow finding your flow Quote: If you are interested in something, you will focus on it, and if you focus attention on anything, it is likely that you will become interested in it. Many of the things we find interesting are not so by nature, but because we took the trouble of paying attention to them. - Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
If you are interested in something, you will focus on it, and if you focus attention on anything, it is likely that you will become interested in it. Many of the things we find interesting are not so by nature, but because we took the trouble of paying attention to them. – Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: Finding Flow with either work or a productive activity! If today is your day off, perhaps just think through your daily tasks, and make a list of activities where you can practice mindfulness or otherwise find flow and lose track of the time. If you need ideas, try a mindful walk, hike, or exercise. Or, go back and try another personal Tea Ceremony today!

PS if you are a Workaholic, perhaps reflections on more balance in your life may be better!

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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July 2023 Summer Fun & Flow: 4th of July & Clean Beach Week

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Fun, Holiday, Intro Info, N2-Santosha, Philosophy

Table of contents

Happy July 4, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: 4th of July & Clean Beach Week

Good Morning Yogis! For those of you in the United States, it is Independence Day – Happy 4th of July! We are in the middle of a special Santosha and Mindfulness Summer Fun Month to align with July’s Anti-Boredom Month. 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”.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is central to a number of eastern religions and philosophies, and is becoming a common theme in western therapy, psychology, and self-help. We have also focused on mindfulness in some of our past daily practices, especially on past Santosha Days and with some focused meditation practices. Mindfulness and losing oneself in the current moment is my idea of “finding flow” that we most commonly experience during “getting in the zone” during particular athletic, work, and artistic activities. Zen Buddhism takes this concept further with Zen Arts such as Tea Ceremony, Archery, Painting, and Flower Arrangement. So, we will focus this month on trying different practices and activities to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state.

cool shot of green bursting firework with yellow shooting sparks - 4th of July Fireworks original work -https://unsplash.com/photos/PKJnzFlvR2w
Fireworks

I learned that plastic is not truly recyclable, and often ends up on our beaches. We are often doing better by throwing plastic in the trash than the recycle bin! Recycle IS last in “Reduce Reuse Recycle” so see if there are other ways you can reduce or reuse your plastics, since they often are not actually recycled.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: get outside and enjoy some time by the water, and do some beach cleanup to honor Clean Beach Week or another form of outdoor clean-up. You can consider this a practice of selfless Saucha. Many of us will be heading to a beach, or another outdoor location for the holiday or to enjoy this summer weekend. Make sure to pack in and pack out all your trash and belongings, and pick up any trash you see along the way for Clean Beach Week! I also find the beach is a perfect place to relax and let everything else slip away, so perhaps you can find your Zen state today by the water!

Environmentalism and Mindfulness

I find the water is a great place to help my thoughts quiet. Try to calmly take notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to and fully immerse yourself in the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.

Make sure to practice mindfulness and try to enjoy each day’s practice with all five senses.

  • If you are one of the many people heading to the beach this weekend, make sure to pick up after yourself!
  • Maybe bring gloves and trash bags and do some extra clean-up in honor of Clean Beach Week since you’re already there.
  • If you are not near any beaches or have other plans, keep an eye out for litter while you are out and do a little clean up when the opportunity presents itself.
  • If you do not have holiday plans, perhaps find and participate in an organized clean-up.. these events are usually great for maintaining social distancing!
  • Perhaps plant a tree.
  • Or, keep your holiday plans and support beach and ocean cleanup efforts by purchasing a 4Ocean sea plastic bracelet.
  • Or, if none of these suggestions resonate with you, find another way to practice some environmentalism!

We started this month with a deep dive of the Zen Tea Ceremony, but today is a more simple activity. Tea and other beverage recommendations from our intro had enough varieties to suit nearly everyone, but some of our practices this month will not be a good fit for you.. that’s okay! If today’s practice is not for you, try to get outside near another body of water of your choice, or go back and try another personal Tea Ceremony today!

waves crashing on the beach with clear blue skies
Pacific Ocean, California

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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July 2023 Summer Fun & Flow: International Drop a Rock Day

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Fun, Holiday, Intro Info, N2-Santosha, Philosophy

Table of contents

Happy July 3, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: International Drop a Rock Day

Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a special Santosha and Mindfulness Summer Fun Month to align with July’s Anti-Boredom Month. 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”.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is central to a number of eastern religions and philosophies, and is becoming a common theme in western therapy, psychology, and self-help. We have also focused on mindfulness in some of our past daily practices, especially on past Santosha Days and with some focused meditation practices. Mindfulness and losing oneself in the current moment is my idea of “finding flow” that we most commonly experience during “getting in the zone” during particular athletic, work, and artistic activities. Zen Buddhism takes this concept further with Zen Arts such as Tea Ceremony, Archery, Painting, and Flower Arrangement. So, we will focus this month on trying different practices and activities (including some Zen Arts!) to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state.

cool shot of painted rock white with rainbow and imagine hidden in large tree knot with leafy shade - Painted Rock original work - https://unsplash.com/photos/HOgkWa7ajw0
Painted Rock

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: Making and Dropping a Painted Rock for International Drop a Rock Day! Make sure to practice mindfulness and try to enjoy each day’s practice with all five senses. Learn ideas, techniques, and best products for painted rocks here! Make sure to use smooth rocks, and wash with soap and water and allow to dry fully before painting. You will likely want newspaper to keep your area clean, as well as acrylic paint and paint brushes. Make sure to use sealant after painting and before dropping out in the world for others to enjoy! Today’s practice may be more fun than flow, but it is a good opportunity to practice Aparigraha or Non-Attachment as we leave our creations in the world, or shrug off any mistakes.

We started this month with a deep dive of the Zen Tea Ceremony, but today is a more simple activity. Tea and other beverage recommendations from our intro had enough varieties to suit nearly everyone, but some of our practices this month will not be a good fit for you.. that’s okay! If today’s practice is not for you, try a craft of your choice, or go back and try another personal Tea Ceremony today!

Try to calmly take notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to and fully immerse yourself in the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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July 2023 Summer Fun & Flow: Running

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Fun, Holiday, Intro Info, N2-Santosha, Philosophy

Table of contents

Happy July 2, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: Running

Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a special Santosha and Mindfulness Summer Fun Month to align with July’s Anti-Boredom Month. 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”.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is central to a number of eastern religions and philosophies, and is becoming a common theme in western therapy, psychology, and self-help. We have also focused on mindfulness in some of our past daily practices, especially on past Santosha Days and with some focused meditation practices. Mindfulness and losing oneself in the current moment is my idea of “finding flow” that we most commonly experience during “getting in the zone” during particular athletic, work, and artistic activities. Zen Buddhism takes this concept further with Zen Arts such as Tea Ceremony, Archery, Painting, and Flower Arrangement. So, we will focus this month on trying different practices and activities (including some Zen Arts!) to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state.

Zen Tea Ceremony

Running

Yesterday we went into a deep dive of the Zen Tea Ceremony, but today is a more simple activity. It was while running that I first experienced flow, during a team run in high school. I personally believe running is an activity that makes it relatively easy to find flow, so this is our second flow activity for our special Santosha and Mindfulness focused Anti-Boredom Month. Running is also great cardio! Tea and other beverage recommendations from yesterday had enough varieties to suit nearly everyone, but some of our practices this month will not be a good fit for you.. that’s okay! If running is not for you, try a mindful walk, hike, or exercise equipment. Or, go back and try another personal Tea Ceremony today!

cool perspective person running through misty forest trees - running flow mindfulness Quote: There is something magical about running; after a certain distance, it transcends the body. Quote: Then a bit further, it transcends the mind. A bit further yet, and what you have before you, laid bare, is the soul. - Kristin Armstrong original work - https://unsplash.com/photos/3FFEdm8TOek
There is something magical about running; after a certain distance, it transcends the body. Then a bit further, it transcends the mind. A bit further yet, and what you have before you, laid bare, is the soul. – Kristin Armstrong

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: Running! Make sure to practice mindfulness and try to enjoy each day’s practice with all five senses. If you are new to running, check out these tips for new runners and, most importantly – wear comfortable and supportive running shoes and socks!

Try to calmly take notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to and fully immerse yourself in the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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July 2023 Summer Fun & Flow – Anti-Boredom Month: Tea Ceremony

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Fun, Holiday, Intro Info, N2-Santosha, Philosophy

Table of contents

Happy July 1, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: Tea Ceremony

Good Morning Yogis! Happy July! July is National Anti-Boredom Month. I set a July mindfulness month last year, after a trip home to Boston, and I really enjoyed this special Santosha and Mindfulness Month aligning with Anti-Boredom Month. 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”.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is central to a number of eastern religions and philosophies, and is becoming a common theme in western therapy, psychology, and self-help. We have also focused on mindfulness in some of our past daily practices, especially on past Santosha Days and with some focused meditation practices. Mindfulness and losing oneself in the current moment is my idea of “finding flow” that we most commonly experience during “getting in the zone” during particular athletic, work, and artistic activities. Zen Buddhism takes this concept further with Zen Arts such as Tea Ceremony, Archery, Painting, and Flower Arrangement. So, we will focus this month on trying different practices and activities (including some Zen Arts!) to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state.

Zen Tea Ceremony

During a Japanese Religion course I took, we studied quite a few of the Zen Arts in detail. I was always completely fascinated with the Zen Tea Ceremony and the extreme attention to detail in everything from the whisked Matcha Tea, to the purification and meal before the ceremony, to the proper way to drink the Tea– turning the cup before sipping. A full discussion of this Zen Tea Ceremony is too much for our daily posts! You can watch a traditional ceremony (20+ min) and learn more about these traditions if you are interested, but you must have a teacher to truly understand this art. Still, enjoying tea and mindfully creating your own mindful tea ceremony is a fun practice to beat boredom. Other Tea ceremonies are common around the world from China’s older and less regimented Cha Dao to British afternoon Tea Time.

cool shot of matcha green tea in gray ceramic cup on bamboo tray in front of colorful brushes -simple tea Quote: A simple cup of tea is far from a simple matter. - Mary Lou Heiss original work - https://unsplash.com/photos/_V4plb9FqIM
A simple cup of tea is far from a simple matter. – Mary Lou Heiss

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: Personal Tea Ceremony! Make sure to practice mindfulness and enjoy with all five senses. PS if Tea and especially if Matcha is not your thing, try your mindful beverage ceremony with another style of Tea recommended below, coffee, hot chocolate (with Marshmallow Fluff!), or another beverage of your choice!

Personalized Mindful Tea Ceremony

cool shot of tea plants with bright green leaves growing in the sun - Tea - Camellia Sinensis original work - https://unsplash.com/photos/oi0FvNhkHy8
Tea – Camellia Sinensis

I love all kinds of Tea, and perhaps you can tell I am a bit of a Tea nerd… so try one of my many favorite styles of tea to create your own mindful Tea Ceremony – make sure to lovingly focus on preparing your special Tea, and enjoy it with all five senses!

colorful blooming tea blossoming flower tea in glass carafe with white background - Cooking - original work - https://unsplash.com/photos/_SvkQ9fWHVI
Blooming Tea

Remember.. no matter what style of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate you select to create your own mindful Tea Ceremony – make sure to lovingly focus on preparing your special Tea, and enjoy it with all five senses!

Try to calmly take notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to and fully immerse yourself in the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

cool shot of coffee various colors in cups arranged in a circle on brown wooden tray and white table original work - https://unsplash.com/photos/pMW4jzELQCw

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For today's practice, we are completing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing this morning with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning High and Low Lunge and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ For today;s practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Uttanasana / Standing Forward Bend and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ We are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Talasana / Palm Tree Pose and modified Sun Salutations focused on chest opening. Daily Yogis are revisiting Talasana or another arboreal Asana - Vrksasana / Tree Pose. ⁣ Good morning Yogis! We are starting our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are starting with Tadasana / Mountain Pose, and a modified Sun Salutations focused on alignment. Check out our video under Tadasana for options for your hands! See full post for more!⁣ Happy Fall! Today is the Fall Equinox and the start of Libra Season. Today we are discussing Tolasana or Scales Pose for the start of Libra Season! This is a great arm and core workout. See full posts for instructions and variations!⁣

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Please comment and share if you tried a Tea Ceremony today. Were you able to find flow or contentment in the now? Always remember, be kind!

              

Santosha (Contentment) – Meditation June 2023: Mindfulness

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Meditation, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy June 16, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Santosha / contentment Day. Today we are going to revisit Mindfulness, a concept and practice that relates to Santosha.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is fully being present or “in the moment” without distractions, and observing your inner and/or outer world without judgment. This is a practice embraced by both Eastern Philosophy and Western Psychology as key for both contentment and stress reduction. Many enjoy Yoga because it brings Mindfulness with focus on breath, moving between poses, and being present in our bodies. Mindfulness can help reduce anxiety, remain calm in stressful situations, support positive thinking, and increase the quality of our lives.

More on Mindfulness and Benefits

Psychology Today – Understanding, Practicing, and Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindful – Getting Started with Mindfulness (and Meditation)

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for June! For our Mindfulness-focused Santosha Day today, our meditation is a  Mindfulness Guided Meditation.

cool perspective close-up of light green evergreen spruce tree needles - santosha contentment mindfulness present moment Quote - Always hold fast to the present. Every situation, indeed every moment, is of infinite value, for it is the representative of a whole eternity. - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Always hold fast to the present. Every situation, indeed every moment, is of infinite value, for it is the representative of a whole eternity. – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice for Santosha Day is to try to practice Mindfulness. Like many other challenging mental practices in Yoga like Aparigraha, remember this is a journey and be patient with your progress in this difficult practice, especially if it is new for you!

PS 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.

  • 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 especially calming, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river.
  • Go for a hike and appreciate the beauty around you, rather than focusing on finding a perfect selfie spot.
  • Take note of your thoughts during a stressful situation, and observe them without judgment rather than getting caught up with them.
  • Bring Mindfulness to your eating by paying attention to all five senses, chewing slowly, and truly enjoying every bite!
  • Sit quietly, and go through all of your senses one by one to appreciate your surroundings.
  • Try a body scan, especially in Shavasana after Asana practice, in a comfortable chair, or before bed.
  • Check out more Mindfulness practices from Mindful.org

Please remember Mindfulness is a difficult practice, so please be gentle with yourself!

Want more Santosha practices? Check out our Santosha Guide!

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For today's practice, we are completing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing this morning with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning High and Low Lunge and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ For today;s practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Uttanasana / Standing Forward Bend and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ We are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Talasana / Palm Tree Pose and modified Sun Salutations focused on chest opening. Daily Yogis are revisiting Talasana or another arboreal Asana - Vrksasana / Tree Pose. ⁣ Good morning Yogis! We are starting our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are starting with Tadasana / Mountain Pose, and a modified Sun Salutations focused on alignment. Check out our video under Tadasana for options for your hands! See full post for more!⁣ Happy Fall! Today is the Fall Equinox and the start of Libra Season. Today we are discussing Tolasana or Scales Pose for the start of Libra Season! This is a great arm and core workout. See full posts for instructions and variations!⁣

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Please comment and share how your Santosha Day went focusing on Mindfulness. Please share any favorite practices or tricks! Always remember, be kind!

              

Santosha (Contentment): May 2023 Yoga Challenge & June Meditation Month

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Holiday, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy May 30, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment)

Good Morning Yogis! June is Rebuild Your Life Month. I find challenge-focused months super helpful for my own motivation, so we are going to continue with a daily Meditation practice challenge for June, as I am also in a rebuilding stage.

We are continuing on with weaving practice of each of the Niyamas into our 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.

30 Day Challengers

Doing our 30 Day Challenge? Click here for today’s post!
Congrats on completing our May Challenge! Please stay with us.. we will check in with our monthly daily commitment on Tapas Day and have another Svadhyaya Journal Day this week, and will begin our meditation-focused month for June.

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are starting a bonus daily meditation challenge for June! If you want to get started early for our Mindfulness-focused Santosha Day today, try a Mindfulness Guided Meditation.

cool perspective sunlit cloudy mountain sky with shadowy city - santosha contentment happiness satisfaction Quote: If one’s life is simple, contentment has to come. Simplicity is extremely important for happiness. Having a few desires, feeling satisfied with what you have, is very vital: satisfaction with just enough food, clothing, and shelter to protect yourself from the elements. And finally, there is an intense delight in abandoning faulty states of mind and in cultivating helpful ones in meditation. - Dalai Lama
If one’s life is simple, contentment has to come. Simplicity is extremely important for happiness. Having a few desires, feeling satisfied with what you have, is very vital: satisfaction with just enough food, clothing, and shelter to protect yourself from the elements. And finally, there is an intense delight in abandoning faulty states of mind and in cultivating helpful ones in meditation. – Dalai Lama

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to actively exercise Santosha / 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. 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.

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For today's practice, we are completing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing this morning with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning High and Low Lunge and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ For today;s practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Uttanasana / Standing Forward Bend and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ We are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Talasana / Palm Tree Pose and modified Sun Salutations focused on chest opening. Daily Yogis are revisiting Talasana or another arboreal Asana - Vrksasana / Tree Pose. ⁣ Good morning Yogis! We are starting our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are starting with Tadasana / Mountain Pose, and a modified Sun Salutations focused on alignment. Check out our video under Tadasana for options for your hands! See full post for more!⁣ Happy Fall! Today is the Fall Equinox and the start of Libra Season. Today we are discussing Tolasana or Scales Pose for the start of Libra Season! This is a great arm and core workout. See full posts for instructions and variations!⁣

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

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May 2023 Yoga Challenge: Santosha (Contentment)

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy May 7, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment)

Good Morning Yogis! Our challengers are learning to remember to incorporate Santosha / contentment with Asana practice. We have discussed that Yoga is a practice, and I find nearly all of the limbs to be challenging. I personally have a hard time with Santosha, finding it especially difficult to “turn off” to just relax and enjoy where I am. So, today you have the choice between Santosha in the present moment, or Santosha with your Asana practice today.

30 Day Challengers

Doing our 30 Day Challenge? Click here for today’s post!

two purple flowers with bright green leaves and brown dirt - santosha contentment happiness appreciation gratitude Quote: To be content doesn’t mean you don’t desire more, it means you’re thankful for what you have and patient for what’s to come. - Tony Gaskins
To be content doesn’t mean you don’t desire more, it means you’re thankful for what you have and patient for what’s to come. – Tony Gaskins

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice for Santosha Day is either bringing Santosha into our Asana practice, or focusing on the present moment, ideally in nature.

Yogis practicing Santosha with their Asana practice – perhaps try a challenging balance pose! Here is a list of balance-focused Asanas and instructions from Yoga Journal.

For those Yogis practicing the finding the happiness in the “now” – here are some of our best tips!

  • 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 especially calming, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river.
  • Go for a 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.
  • Read a book on your deck or by the window.
  • Sit quietly, and go through all of your senses one by one to appreciate your surroundings.
  • Any way that feels right for you to get out of your head, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

PS 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.

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Equipment and Yoga Mats!

Do not push yourself to pain on your Yoga Journey! Many Yogis of all levels embrace all kinds of blocks and props. Do not hesitate to grab a couch pillow for extra support, a block for extra support or when you cannot reach the floor, or a strap for extra arm-reach and leverage.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

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Share your Practice

Please comment and share how your Santosha Day went focusing on living in the now. Please share any favorite practices or tricks! Always remember, be kind!

              

Asana April 2023: Earth Day & Lyrids Meteor Shower

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in Holiday, N2-Santosha, Y1-Ahimsa, Y3-Asteya

Table of contents

Happy Asana April 23, 2022 – Earth Day & Lyrids Meteor Shower

Good morning Yogis! Today is Earth Day and tonight is the peak of the Lyrids Meteor Shower! This meteor shower is average (20/hr) and produces bright streaking trails, so try to catch a shooting star if you have clear skies this week! So, before we begin another quick Asana series, let’s take a quick break to celebrate Earth Day and focus on enjoying the earth with Santosha practice, or help conservation and environmental efforts with Ahimsa or Asteya practice today.

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asana practice challenge for April! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to youtube videos for various Yoga Styles. For Earth Day today, I recommend a dynamic Vinyasa series to focus on physical health, or a more meditative Yin and Restorative Series.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without Wifi or phone signal. Today I am trying a new Vinyasa class, one of the specialty focuses I have not yet tried.

close-up cool perspective of leafy purple multicolor art from meow wolf denver - earth day environmentalism conservation Quote: The Earth is a fine place and worth fighting for. - Ernest Hemingway
The Earth is a fine place and worth fighting for. – Ernest Hemingway

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is a practice of your choice focused on enjoying or conserving nature for today’s Earth Day.

  • Consider making a donation to the World Wildlife Fund to help protect endangered animals and their environments! I am an animal lover and environmentalist, this one is near and dear to me, but I apologize for repeating over and over 🙂
  • April is Stress Awareness Month, so perhaps consider a meditative walk or hike to enjoy your natural environment!
  • Plant a tree!
  • Perhaps go for a hike and bring gloves and trash bags and do some extra clean-up in honor of Earth Day.
  • Find and participate in an organized local clean-up.. these events are usually great for maintaining social distancing!
  • Support beach and ocean cleanup efforts by purchasing a 4Ocean sea plastic bracelet.
  • Or, if none of these suggestions resonate with you, find another way to practice some environmentalism!

Want more Santosha practices? Check out our Santosha Guide!

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Asana April 2023: Santosha (Contentment) – Happy Baby Pose

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, 3-Asanas, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy Asana April 14, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment) – Happy Baby Pose

Good morning Yogis! We are continuing our cycle through the Yoga Sutras with the second of the Niyamas – Santosha or Contentment. Since we are in the middle of an April Asana Challenge, we are featuring a new Asana that represents each of the Yoga Sutras! Ananda Balasana (ah-NAN-duh buh-LA-sa-nuh) or Happy Baby pose is my choice to represent Santosha. In addition to having a synonym for contentment in the name, it is hard not to smile rocking back and forth like a happy baby in this pose!

Bonus Daily Asana Challenge

We are in the middle of a daily Asana practice challenge for April! Please see our Asana Styles page for links to YouTube videos for various Yoga Styles. For Santosha Day today, I recommend an alignment-focused Iyengar class.

I usually practice with the Yoga Studio App rather than streaming services, so I can download my favorite classes and use in areas without WiFi or phone signal. Today I am doing one of my favorites – Intermediate Flexibility, and adding an extra Ananda Balasana at the end of this series.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try Happy Baby Pose for Santosha Day! This pose is a favorite among all levels of Yogis, and is a great passive hip opener.

If you would prefer an off-the-mat practice for Santosha Day – try a mindfulness practice to find contentment in the present moment!

Ananda Balasana – Happy Baby Pose

Ananda Balasana - happy baby pose - yoga pose girl sunny day yoga on the beach
Ananda Balasana – Happy Baby Pose

Start laying on your back in Savasana / Corpse Pose with your knees bent and feet on the mat. Exhale and hug your knees in towards your chest.. you may want to enjoy this pose for a few breaths before coming into this pose!

Inhale and reach your hands between your knees. Grab the outside of each foot, exhale and spread your legs to each side of your torso. Ideally, your thighs will be parallel to the ground on each side of your torso and your feet will be flat up to the sky, but only bring your legs down as far as is comfortable. Your arms should be gently spreading your legs to the sides rather than forcing them down to the ground.

Take deep breaths into your belly (perhaps try Vilona Pranayama) and hold this pose for at least 3-5 full breaths. You can stay still, or rock slightly side to side like a happy baby this pose is named for. When you’re ready, release your feet and come back into Savasana / Corpse Pose with your knees bent and feet on the mat.

PS If you are comfortable with variations of these poses, please tag us with your pictures on Instagram!

Want more Santosha practices? Check out our Santosha Guide!

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Meditation March 2023: Santosha (Contentment) – Mindfulness

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy Meditation March 22, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Santosha or contentment Day. Today we are going to revisit Mindfulness, a concept and practice that relates to Santosha.

cool perspective close-up modern abstract concrete sculpture from decordova sculpture garden among bright green grass and sunlit trees - santosha contentment happiness mindfulness mindful present moment Quote: The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness. - Abraham Maslow
The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness. – Abraham Maslow

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is fully being present or “in the moment” without distractions, and observing your inner and/or outer world without judgment. This is a practice embraced by both Eastern Philosophy and Western Psychology as key for both contentment and stress reduction. Many enjoy Yoga because it brings Mindfulness with focus on breath, moving between poses, and being present in our bodies. Mindfulness can help reduce anxiety, remain calm in stressful situations, support positive thinking, and increase the quality of our lives.

More on Mindfulness and Benefits

Psychology Today – Understanding, Practicing, and Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindful – Getting Started with Mindfulness (and Meditation)

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For our Mindfulness-focused Santosha Day today, our meditation is a  Mindfulness Guided Meditation.

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice for Santosha Day is to try to practice Mindfulness. Like many other challenging mental practices in Yoga like Aparigraha, remember this is a journey and be patient with your progress in this difficult practice, especially if it is new for you!

PS 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.

  • 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 especially calming, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river.
  • Go for a hike and appreciate the beauty around you, rather than focusing on finding a perfect selfie spot.
  • Take note of your thoughts during a stressful situation, and observe them without judgment rather than getting caught up with them.
  • Bring Mindfulness to your eating by paying attention to all five senses, chewing slowly, and truly enjoying every bite!
  • Sit quietly, and go through all of your senses one by one to appreciate your surroundings.
  • Try a body scan, especially in Shavasana after Asana practice, in a comfortable chair, or before bed.
  • Check out more Mindfulness practices from Mindful.org

Please remember Mindfulness is a difficult practice, so please be gentle with yourself!

Want more Santosha practices? Check out our Santosha Guide!

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For today's practice, we are completing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing this morning with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning High and Low Lunge and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ For today;s practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Uttanasana / Standing Forward Bend and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ We are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Talasana / Palm Tree Pose and modified Sun Salutations focused on chest opening. Daily Yogis are revisiting Talasana or another arboreal Asana - Vrksasana / Tree Pose. ⁣ Good morning Yogis! We are starting our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are starting with Tadasana / Mountain Pose, and a modified Sun Salutations focused on alignment. Check out our video under Tadasana for options for your hands! See full post for more!⁣ Happy Fall! Today is the Fall Equinox and the start of Libra Season. Today we are discussing Tolasana or Scales Pose for the start of Libra Season! This is a great arm and core workout. See full posts for instructions and variations!⁣

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Santosha (Contentment) – Meditation March 2023

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy Meditation March 7, 2023 – Saucha (Purity)

Good Morning Yogis! Today is Santosha or Contentment Day… today is one of my favorite daily Sutra-inspired practices!

Bonus Daily Meditation Challenge

We are in the middle of a bonus Daily Meditation Challenge for March! For Santosha Day today, my meditation for the day is a Positive Affirmation Guided Meditation. Try to remember any positive affirmations that resonate with you – perhaps add to your journal, repeat and reflect on your moment in nature today, and/or come back to them during meditation. I enjoyed the positive affirmations “Today I look for and appreciate the good” and “I am worthy, I am enough.” Or perhaps try this new Mindfulness Guided Meditation!

Mindfulness is the aware, balanced acceptance of the present experience. It isn’t more complicated than that. It is opening to or receiving the present moment, pleasant or unpleasant, just as it is, without either clinging to it or rejecting it. - Sylvia Boorstein
Mindfulness is the aware, balanced acceptance of the present experience. It isn’t more complicated than that. It is opening to or receiving the present moment, pleasant or unpleasant, just as it is, without either clinging to it or rejecting it. – Sylvia Boorstein

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice for Santosha Day is focusing on the present moment, ideally in nature. We are practicing finding the happiness in the “now”. Here are some of our best tips!

  • 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 especially calming, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river.
  • Go for a 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.
  • Read a book on your deck or by the window.
  • Sit quietly, and go through all of your senses one by one to appreciate your surroundings.
  • Any way that feels right for you to get out of your head, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

PS 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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January 2023 30 Day Challenge: Day 30 – Santosha (Contentment)

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, Holiday, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy January 31, 2023 – 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.

30 Day Challengers

Doing our 30 Day Challenge? Click here for today’s post!

This is Day 30 of your Challenge if you started on Monday with the first Ahimsa Practice – congratulations! Please stay with us.. we will check in with our monthly daily commitment on Tapas Day and have another Svadhyaya Journal Day this week.

cool shot through darkened trees looking at purple and blue sunset over snowy mountain range - santosha contentment happiness mindfulness mindful Quote: I have chosen to be happy because it's good for my health. - Voltaire
I have chosen to be happy because it’s good for my health. – Voltaire

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!

Follow us on Instagram – easy access to our daily positive practices
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@dailyyogi.world
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enable notifications for pop-up reminders!

For today's practice, we are completing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing this morning with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ We are continuing with our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! ⁣ For today's practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning High and Low Lunge and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ For today;s practice, we are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Uttanasana / Standing Forward Bend and modified Sun Salutations with three variations of this Asana. ⁣ We are continuing our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are learning Talasana / Palm Tree Pose and modified Sun Salutations focused on chest opening. Daily Yogis are revisiting Talasana or another arboreal Asana - Vrksasana / Tree Pose. ⁣ Good morning Yogis! We are starting our breakdown of each pose in Sun Salutations! New Yogis are starting with Tadasana / Mountain Pose, and a modified Sun Salutations focused on alignment. Check out our video under Tadasana for options for your hands! See full post for more!⁣ Happy Fall! Today is the Fall Equinox and the start of Libra Season. Today we are discussing Tolasana or Scales Pose for the start of Libra Season! This is a great arm and core workout. See full posts for instructions and variations!⁣

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!

              

January 2023 30 Day Challenge: Day 7 – Santosha (Contentment)

by Tarryn Tyler - Daily Yogiposted in 2-Niyamas, N2-Santosha

Table of contents

Happy January 8, 2023 – Santosha (Contentment)

Good Morning Yogis! Our challengers are learning to remember to incorporate Santosha / contentment with Asana practice. We have discussed that Yoga is a practice, and I find nearly all of the limbs to be challenging. I personally have a hard time with Santosha, finding it especially difficult to “turn off” to just relax and enjoy where I am. So, today you have the choice between Santosha in the present moment, or Santosha with your Asana practice today.

30 Day Challengers

Doing our 30 Day Challenge? Click here for today’s post!

cool close up shot of dark and light brown grains - santosha contentment happiness acceptance Quote: The moment that judgement stops through acceptance of what it is, you are free of the mind. You have made room for love, for joy, for peace. - Eckhart Tolle
The moment that judgement stops through acceptance of what it is, you are free of the mind. You have made room for love, for joy, for peace. – Eckhart Tolle

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice for Santosha Day is either bringing Santosha into our Asana practice, or focusing on the present moment, ideally in nature.

Yogis practicing Santosha with their Asana practice – perhaps try a challenging balance pose! Here is a list of balance-focused Asanas and instructions from Yoga Journal. Personally, I am still recovering from a shoulder/neck injury that affects my daily Asana practice, and am working on Santosha with slowly rebuilding my upper-body strength.

For those Yogis practicing finding happiness in the “now” – here are some of our best tips!

  • 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 especially calming, maybe head out for a walk down the beach, around a lake, or by a river.
  • Go for a 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.
  • Read a book on your deck or by the window.
  • Sit quietly, and go through all of your senses one by one to appreciate your surroundings.
  • Any way that feels right for you to get out of your head, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

PS 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!

Check out our Top 5 Yoga Equipment and Yoga Mats!

Do not push yourself to pain on your Yoga Journey! Many Yogis of all levels embrace all kinds of blocks and props. Do not hesitate to grab a couch pillow for extra support, a block for extra support or when you cannot reach the floor, or a strap for extra arm-reach and leverage.

Top 5 Yoga Equipment for Newbies

Top 5 Yoga Mats


Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This page contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

Share your Practice

Please comment and share how your Santosha Day went on the mat or focusing on living in the now. Please share any favorite practices or tricks! Always remember, be kind!

More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

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