Welcome to the New Year everyone!
It’s Sami here and I am so looking forward to another awesome year with you guys!
Seeing as it’s the beginning of the year, I thought we could take some time to reflect on some goals for our wellbeing. While the majority of the population may be setting health goals around dieting, weight-loss or specific fitness goals, there is an opportunity for the yogi to pursue a slightly different approach to health that supports their spiritual journey.
In Ayurveda, sattva, or ‘the mode of goodness’, is said to be the optimal state of being for living a happy, peaceful life. When we are living in the mode of goodness our minds become more calm, and we are more inclined towards happiness, forgiveness, and clarity of mind – which are all conducive to leading a spiritual life.
So what’s this got to do with our health goals?
Well, to live in the mode of goodness, we must consume foods and engage in activities that are also in the mode of goodness. For example, fresh, healthy vegetarian whole foods; practicing yoga asanas and pranayama; engaging in regular meditation; being careful of what we put in our mind; exercising regularly, etc. Adding these activities to our lives not only improves our health in general, but promotes the optimal living condition for yoga.
So even though we may also focus on maintaining our diet, exercise, and staying on top of our health, the mindset is different in that we aren’t seeking an external outcome, rather a state of being that enhances our life and harmonises with our spiritual goals.
The wonderful thing about this ‘health for a higher purpose’ mindset is that it takes a lot of focus away from how our body looks, and places more emphasis on treating our body with love and respect.
Which sounds like a great way to start the New Year if you ask me!
Namaste` and well wishes,
Sami