On Setting Intentions
If you practice yoga, you’ve likely experienced being invited to set an intention at the beginning of class by your teacher. Does setting intentions feel grounding and natural to you, or does it leave you feeling uncertain or overwhelmed?
Setting intentions is a powerful way to root our practice in mindfulness and introspection. This simple action can enrich and transform our experience by guiding us to connect with what matters most in the moment—both on and off the mat.
Setting intentions is distinct from setting goals. While goals focus on achieving specific outcomes, intentions are rooted in our values and act as guiding principles connecting inner aspirations with external reality. For example, we might set an intention to “be a better listener” before meeting a friend, “remain receptive” when dealing with conflict, or “stay with the present moment” as we are about to meditate. Unlike goals, intentions emphasise the how of our journey rather than the what.
Affirmations—positive and actionable phrases—are a powerful way to articulate and reinforce our intentions. By emphasising the qualities we already embody or aspire to cultivate, they guide our focus toward growth and positivity, rather than dwelling on what we wish to avoid or eliminate. For example, “I embrace softness and ease” is more effective and forward-looking than “I want to feel less stressed” and likewise “I choose courage” is more effective than “I want to let go of the fear that is holding me back”.
Intentions are meant to be a source of growth and guidance, not pressure. In this way, they teach us the value of flexibility. Clinging too tightly to an intention—such as “act from your highest self”—can lead to frustration when we inevitably fall short, causing us to overlook the fluid and dynamic nature of life.
When we begin the practice of setting intentions, it’s natural to encounter challenges such as self-doubt, negative self-talk, or the pressure to “get it right”. Getting past these obstacles takes patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to celebrate small victories along the way. Incorporating practices such as journaling, meditation, or personal reflection can also be incredibly helpful in supporting this journey.
Picture yourself at the end of a group yoga practice as the teacher gently invites you to revisit the intention you set at the beginning. Did it slip from your mind entirely, or were there moments when you felt connected to it? Over time, setting intentions becomes a natural part of our day, seamlessly guiding our thoughts and actions — both on and off the mat.
Teaching Updates
Over the next few weeks, I will be teaching a weekly Saturday morning class at Urban Social. The session combines an hour of yoga practice with an hour of sauna and an optional cold plunge. You can find the booking information in the link below:
Regardless of whether I see you for either of these practicing opportunities in December, I wish you a beautiful end of the year filled with joy, rest, and quality time with loved ones, whatever you may celebrate.
With love and gratitude,
Hasti
“Just as treasures are uncovered from the earth, so virtue appears from good deeds, and wisdom appears from a pure and peaceful mind.” – Gautama Buddha