Calm + Content
Being content doesn't mean we don't desire more, but rather that we become more aware of what we already have, what already exists, what's already been manifested, + express our appreciation + gratitude for it. This awareness can completely shift our energy from one of lack to one of contentment.
The Power of Santosha: Finding Contentment in the Present
In a world that constantly pushes us to want more, do more + be more, the idea of contentment can often feel elusive. However, the practice of santosha—the second niyama in yoga philosophy—teaches us that true contentment is not about settling for less, but about fully appreciating what we already have + recognising the beauty in our current reality.
Santosha is the embodiment of gratitude, appreciation, fulfilment + joy. It’s about taking a moment to become aware of all the things we’ve already manifested in our lives, both big + small, + celebrating them. It’s about being present in the here + now, appreciating the journey as much as the destination.
Reflecting on Achievements
One of the most powerful aspects of santosha is the practice of reflection. How often do we take the time to reflect on our accomplishments? Whether they are personal, professional, or spiritual, these achievements deserve recognition. Yet, it’s easy to overlook them, focusing instead on what’s next or what needs improvement.
Taking time to reflect on your journey so far can be transformative. It allows you to see how far you’ve come, to acknowledge the wisdom + strength gained along the way + to celebrate your growth. Reflection is not just about looking back; it’s about understanding that every step, every success + even every failure, has brought you to where you are today.
The Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is a cornerstone of santosha. When we express gratitude for what we already have, we shift our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant in our lives. This shift in perspective can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. It reminds us that we already possess so much to be thankful for + that contentment can be found not in acquiring more, but in appreciating what already exists.
A simple practice of daily gratitude—whether through journaling, meditation, or simply taking a moment each day to reflect—can help ground you in the present moment. It’s a way to nurture contentment + to elevate your energy to a higher vibration.
Balancing Ambition with Contentment
It’s important to note that practising santosha doesn’t mean abandoning your ambitions or desires. On the contrary, it encourages us to pursue our goals from a place of abundance rather than lack. When we operate from a mindset of contentment, our desires are no longer driven by a sense of not having enough, but by a genuine passion for growth + improvement.
By recognising + celebrating your achievements along the way, you create a positive feedback loop that fuels further growth while maintaining a deep sense of satisfaction with where you are now. It’s about finding joy in the journey, not just in the destination.
Grounding in the Present Moment
Santosha invites us to ground ourselves in the present moment, to connect with the here + now, + to appreciate the beauty of life as it is. Whether through meditation, mindful breathing, or simply taking time to be still + observe your surroundings, grounding practices help anchor us in reality + open our eyes to the blessings we might otherwise overlook.
Even in challenging times, practising santosha helps us find a sense of peace + contentment. It reminds us that life is a gift, + that every breath, every experience, is an opportunity to grow + to be grateful.
Welcoming Contentment into Your Life
As you embrace the practice of santosha, you’ll find that contentment is not a destination, but a journey. It’s a continuous practice of recognising the good in your life, celebrating your progress + grounding yourself in the present moment. It’s about shifting your perspective from one of lack to one of abundance + finding joy in the process.
Take time today to reflect on your journey, to express gratitude for your achievements + to ground yourself in the present moment. By welcoming santosha into your life, you’ll cultivate a deeper sense of peace, fulfilment + happiness—qualities that will support you as you continue to grow + evolve.
LEARN MORE
Learn more about practicing santosha + living a live a yoga-inspired life over on the Inspired Club.