Santosha, the second Niyama from the Yoga Sutras, encourages us to cultivate a profound sense of contentment and joy in our lives, relationships, and possessions. It urges us to embrace the mantra, “I am happy, I am grateful for all that I have.” Santosha compels us to become mindful of thoughts and emotions that misalign with our core belief in happiness. Even if we generally feel content, there are moments when we catch ourselves wishing for something more, saying, “I wish I had ______,” “If only I could ______,” or “When I get ______, then I will be happy.” These desires can take countless forms, but they all divert the mind away from true contentment. No matter how much we possess, if we cannot tap into that inner wellspring of happiness, we remain in a ceaseless quest to fill an insatiable void.
Making Peace with Your Current Life:
In the words of Oprah Winfrey, “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” Santosha does not advocate abandoning ambitions or striving for improvement in your life, relationships, or career. It entails acknowledging the aspects within yourself that breed feelings of inadequacy and making peace with your current circumstances, thereby unlocking your own happiness and infinite potential. When you covet what others possess, you foster the false belief that happiness resides externally. This engenders an internal conflict and unnecessary suffering. Through practicing Santosha, you dissolve the illusion that you require specific people or possessions to feel complete or fulfilled; you are already whole and perfect as you are.
Happiness Emanates From Within:
Dale Carnegie wisely said, “It isn’t what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about it.” Santosha teaches us that happiness emanates from within and radiates outward. If you yearn for more peace and joy in your life, Santosha is a practice to revisit repeatedly. It reminds us that we are already perfect and connected to an infinite source of love and energy, equipping us to better navigate life’s challenges. So this week, grant yourself the liberty to cease waiting for the ideal moment, the perfect training, or the right person to bring you happiness. Everything you need to experience happiness is already nestled within you.
How to Begin Incorporating Santosha into Your Daily Life:
- Morning Gratitude: Start your day by acknowledging and appreciating the blessings in your life, no matter how small they may seem.
- Mindful Reflection: Throughout the day, take moments to pause and reflect on your thoughts. Are they aligning with your core beliefs in happiness, or are they veering off course?
- Let Go of Comparisons: Resist the urge to compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on your unique journey and the progress you’re making.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a dear friend.
- Cultivate Mindfulness: Develop a regular meditation or mindfulness practice to stay connected with your inner source of happiness.
- Embrace Imperfection: Recognize that perfection is a myth. Embrace your flaws and imperfections as part of your unique beauty.
- Live in the Present: Don’t postpone your happiness for the future. Embrace the present moment, appreciating what you have now.
- Express Gratitude: Share your gratitude with others and notice the positive impact it has on your relationships and overall well-being.
- Reflect on Your Goals: When setting goals, ensure they align with your values and desires rather than seeking external validation.
- Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, promoting your sense of contentment and inner happiness.
Lasting Contentment Lies Within:
In wrapping up our exploration of Santosha, we find ourselves at the crossroads of contentment and self-discovery. Santosha urges us to proclaim, “I am happy, I am grateful for all that I have,” and invites us to scrutinize thoughts that deviate from our core belief in happiness. As we’ve navigated the complexities of this concept, we’ve learned that contentment isn’t about relinquishing aspirations but acknowledging the places within ourselves that question our worth. Through Santosha, we dissolve the illusion that external factors determine our completeness, recognizing that we are already whole and perfect. Let these insights guide you on a journey of self-acceptance, as you embrace the present moment, release comparisons, and cultivate an internal wellspring of happiness. Remember, the key to lasting contentment lies within you.
With gratitude for the journey,
Get Your FREE Guide to the Yamas and Niyamas
Paula Ribotto
Leave a Reply