Two of the more popular New Year’s goals involves becoming a better person or getting in better shape.
What does it mean to be a better person? Or in better shape? We’re all works in progress and every journey seems to commence with that very first step. Your steps may lead you in search for more patience, or less stress, while navigating through life’s ordeals. It might send you scurrying to find ways to shed those stubborn extra 15-pounds, while nursing the effects, we all experience, from the passage of time on our bodies. It’s impossible to stop the ordeals, or the passage of time, so it behooves us to develop the coping mechanisms that allow us to master these facts on our own terms. The disciplined practice of Yoga can mark your path in the correct direction. It begins by setting goals.
1. Research
If you are new to yoga, let knowledge be your first goal. Research the many aspects, and teachings, of the discipline to discover what the best fit is for you. Make it your goal to locate the availability of three classes in your vicinity before scheduling a session. Under the direction of diverse instructors, different yoga classes will witness the concentration of its students on varying aspects of the science, and your first goal is to find the right match. The knowledge that you have gained will best be put to use now.
2. Relaxation
Major decisions are best made against the backdrop of a calm mind. If your goal is to be mentally prepared for the rigors of the day, set your second yoga goal to be the attainment of a relaxed state of mind. With the exception of flexibility, mental relaxation is the most common benefit associated with the practice of yoga. Resolve to master the positions that promote relaxation; such as, concentrate on the gentler positions like the butterfly. Additionally, make the attainment of relaxation contingent on the release of toxic mental baggage.
3. Flexibility
As mentioned above, increased flexibility is an expected benefit of yoga and your third goal should be to attain it. Increased flexibility is a byproduct of a diligent yoga regime with most participants experiencing increased abilities following a yoga session. You can begin to experience increased flexibility, and less wear on your body, after making this your third New Year yoga goal.
4. Weight Loss and Strength Building
Any active regime is a boon to your efforts towards losing weight. Getting off the couch and shedding unwanted holiday pounds should be your fourth goal this coming New Year. Concentrating your efforts can also see marked increases in strength development too. In yoga, strength is typically built from using the resistance of your own body weight, and can be attained through such positions as crow, boat, locust, and headstands.
5. Grounding with Intentions
Intentions are those things in your life that provide self respect and peace-of-mind to individuals. In Buddhism, intentions underpin your acceptance of the here and now. It separates the future outcome, of a distant goal, to the daily path you live as you move towards that goal. Make your final yoga goal of the New Year to be living every moment of the New Year.
