What is a Sankalpa, and how do I set one?

Sankalpas are one of my FAVOURITE yogic tools. If you're here reading this it might be because you've been in a class where you've heard the term used; or it might be because you are interested in incorporating one into a Yoga Nidra practice so let me explain what a Sankalpa is, and how you can go about setting one.

Sankalpa's are often used at the beginning or end of Yoga classes and loosely translate as a heartfelt desire or intention. They can be a way of manifesting a change or something into being, or ridding ourselves of samskaras which simply put are unconscious impressions or habits which are deep rooted from our actions or previous lives (Samskaras are an interesting topic in themselves and could easily be a blog post for another day).

Sankalpas are a short, concise and simple phrase set in the present which act as commands to cultivate a felling, habit or energy. Similar to a mantra it is a powerful technique which many believe can transform will and resolve into a energy. Sankalpas should come from your heartfelt desire and inner intution, so you shouldn't be what you 'think' you should be trying to achieve. It is thought that if you work with a Sankalpa which comes from your deepest desire than through planting the seed growth must be certain - which I just think is lovely, don't you?

The idea is that you choose one Sankalpa that you work with for a period of time until you've felt you have accomplished the Sankalpa and bought it into being. Consistency will be your friend here!

When can I use a Sankalpa?

Sankalpas are often used at the beginning and/or the end of Yoga classes, and are often but not always used in Yoga Nidra practices. Some like to repeat them in their mind before they go to sleep or first thing when they wake up. Day to day I also like to write them on post it notes around the house, and have even set passwords linked to them so that i'm regularly typing them in

How do I choose a Sankalpa?

Go through some of the below prompts to have a think about what areas of your life you may wish to have a sankalpa for. A short asana or meditation practice before you do this can be a nice way to clear the mind and make space for reflection on this

• What area of my life or behaviour would I like to work on?

• Where do I recognise a certain action or behaviour showing up?

• What would it mean to me to overcome this pattern or behaviour?

• What would that look like in my day to day life?

• What impact would it have on my life, relationships and wellbeing?

If nothing naturally comes up for you it is important not to worry or force something into existence. It is thought that when needed it will arise naturally, and in the meantime the inner wisdom of the body and mind will tune into and heal whatever it needs to

Have you got any examples?

I personally tend to refrain from giving examples in class as I want to avoid people using sankalpas which aren't relevant or personal to them. That being said see a few below to get you thinking

I am strong

I am healthy and full of vitality

I am rested and well

I am bold and courageous

I am at peace

I treat myself with kindness and respect

I am grateful for all that I have

I am kindhearted and generous

One of my favourite descriptions of Sankalpa is below

'Sankalpa means the resolve to do, that is, to perform to achieve an objective, as a vow or solemn promise to oneself. Sankalpa also means concept or idea. It is the determination or the will in the mind which precedes all actions. It is considered to be creative in character and superior to ordinary thought because it activates the body; it makes one perform a predetermined act in order to achieve a pre-set goal. It means - I will be decisive. I will be whole-hearted. My growth is certain. I know I will make mistakes but I will pick up and continue' - Swami Rama

So go out there my majestic unicorns and be decisive and whole-hearted. You've got this, and i've got you. <3

If you have any questions on Sankalpa than contact me, or if you're looking to put one into practice join me for a yoga class or Yoga Nidra 1:2:1