Are you content? What does that word evoke for you?

For a long time, I connected the word CONTENT with GOOD ENOUGH or SETTLING.

But as I began my practice, I found the meaning or the emotion behind the word changed for me. CONTENT became QUIETLY JOYFUL, or PEACEFULLY HAPPY. It restored a feeling of power and control over my own existence.

In yoga, SANTOSHA is the practice of contentment. And it is definitely a practice. One we have to commit to over and over again.

“When at peace and content with oneself and others, supreme joy is celebrated.”

–Devi, The Secret Power of Yoga, p 205

I resonate strongly with the idea that we hold the power of our own happiness. That it is a state of mind rather than a goal to be achieved. We practice contentment so that when things aren’t perfect, we are resilient and recognize the impermanence of the world. Things change. People change, situations change, but how we respond is up to us. And for some people, contentment is harder to connect to than it is for others.

I am 100% that happy person. “I like liking things.” And it’s not an act or me trying to be positive all the time. I just gravitate towards the aspects I enjoy in regards to content (like a movie, song, or television show), people, and situations.

And acknowledging that things aren’t ideal or perfect isn’t a mark against contentment, it’s a practice of self study. “This situation isn’t what I want. But I get to choose how I respond.”

Try this (if you like): Practice smiling when no one is looking. I mean this as a meditative practice. Close your eyes, and let the edges of your mouth turn upward slightly. Notice how it feels to do so. Take a few breaths like this, observe how you feel inside. Notice where your thoughts go as you secretly smile to yourself. The physical body cues the breath, then the mind then the heart.

NEW VIDEO ON DEMAND

This week’s new video is a replay of the RESTORATIVE class.

The 60-minute practice was designed to focus on helping you unwind after work. Using slow movements and stillness with deep breath, you will love how this practice guides you into peace after a long day!

Check it by CLICKING HERE

FREE ON YOUTUBE

This week we bring Chair Yoga back to YouTube with this CHAIR YOGA FOR ARTHRITIS video. Focusing on joint mobility and strengthening while also releasing tension and inflammation, this 30 minute video is not a restorative class. Movement is gentle but energizing and you will enjoy how this video helps you to feel freer in body and lighter in mind and heart. And if you love this video, you should check out the Monday live Yoga for Arthritis class or the Package that offers live class and lifetime access to replays along with additional content to guide you in a practice of yoga that supports your process of rehabilitation and maintenance with arthritis.

BEHIND THE SCENES

As I write this email to you, I am listening to “Easy Focus Pomodoro: Made with Binaural Beats” by Audio by AK on Insight Timer. I like to use tracks like this when I am writing or reading or studying because they help my mind focus in a calm way. For me, this is part of my practice of SANTOSHA because it refines my focus and keeps my mind on one thing instead of many things.

Do you listen to music like this? What do you think of it? Let me know by replying to this email.

That’s it from me! I truly hope your week is full of ease, peace, and love.

From my heart to yours,

–Viviane Wolfe

www.vivianewolfeyoga.com

500RYT, yoga-therapist-in-training