A Holistic Approach to Setting an Intention

January 18, 2021 / Blog

New Year, New Intention…

This year, set an intention that resonates deeply with you.

Visualize what it would be like to “succeed” in this intention, all the while recognizing that

the process of setting an intention is not linear, but rather a cyclic journey. It is not pass/fail.

 

When you set your intention, release all expectations.

Acknowledge any obstacles that stand in the way of your intention coming into fruition.

 

Setting an intention begins by connecting with your heartspace.

A simple way to do this is through breathwork.

Sit with your spine straight.

Breathe deeply to fill the lungs.

Hold the breath at the top of the inhale, and notice what you feel.

Then exhale fully, releasing whatever you need to let go of in your heart.

Do this ten times.

Think to yourself “in” on the inhale and “out” on the exhale.

Bringing your full attention to the breath, which will connect you wit the present moment.

 

Then allow your intention to form from you heart, simply by shifting your awareness to your heart center.

Ask, “What is my heart’s innermost desire?”

Don’t force an answer, but rather let it come to you.

Once you receive your heartfelt intention, state it out loud three times, and then write it down.

(Another helpful form of meditation is Sankalpa, an intention formed by the heart and mind.  Listen to a guided meditation of Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) and Sankalpa in Vermont Farmacy’s Wellness Series 1: Class 3).

 

It helps to write a daily or weekly note in relation to your intention.

Along the way, if you find that you need to adjust or alter your intention, do so.

Intentions are not indefinite.

 

Give yourself at least a full month to focus on your intention.

Acknowledge what you have received by setting your intention.

Give yourself credit for making it happen.

What lessons did you learn?

Who can you share these lessons with?

And then, move on.

Release all judgements and attachments related to your intention, “clear the slate.”

Then either reset your intention, if you feel there is more to learn, or set a new one.

 

The best time to set an intention is at the beginning of something. The start of a new day, month, moon, or year.

If you want to practice, set an intention at the start of each day.  Write it down, and go through the process.  At the end of the day, evaluate and let go.

 

Take it a level deeper and practice living intentionally.  In each moment. This happens slowly, overtime, through the practice of awareness.

Bring awareness to your thoughts words, and actions.

Be honest with yourself, and observe yourself just as you are.

Through mindfulness and awareness we bring our selves deeper into the present moment, tuning into the the continuous flow of the Now.

Be here now. Bring intention into each and every moment.

 

To learn and practice more on intention, go to vtfarmacy.com/wellness and subscribe to our Wellness Series