MINDFUL MONDAYS: INTENTION - This holiday season, I connect to my purpose

Having a purpose in life is associated with all kinds of benefits. Research suggests that purpose tethers us to better health, longevity, and even economic success. It feels good to have a sense of purpose, knowing that you are using your skills to help others in a way that matters to you.

Purpose motivates us to make a difference and we do it altruistically – to help, to give, to serve. It is the legacy we leave behind. Connecting to our purpose helps us navigate through rough times; it keeps us grounded to who we are and how we want to be in the world. Purpose helps reduce any panic or fear we might be feeling because we focus on our purpose instead.

Purpose makes us resilient and courageous. It provides direction. It energizes us to take risks and move beyond our fears. When we connect to purpose, our courage, strength, and commitment to life grows. Having a bigger purpose is what propels us to step outside of our comfort zones to make an impact where it means most to us.

Yoga can help us identify our purpose. A yoga practice is a wonderful space in which to cultivate our intentions and support our purpose. Through practice we gain clarity and insight. We may remember to be kind to ourselves and others, let go of perfectionism, and be open to our differences. No matter our background or beliefs about why we celebrate this time of year, we can all connect to the universal themes of peace, love, and extending kindness to all. Our continued commitment to our practice is a way to honor these virtues, knowing that by stepping onto our mat, we are fueling ourselves with the ability to fully embody these qualities when we step out into the world.

Yoga helps us relax and restore this time of year. Staying with our practice helps us slow down and deeply appreciate each moment, at any moment. A simple, deep breath while in traffic or in the checkout line at the grocery store can transform our attitude. Our practice leads us to see our own Divinity through meditation. We let go of attachments and quiet the mind through meditation so that our Divinity is revealed, and our purpose becomes clear.

In understanding our intentions and knowing our purpose, we can begin to recognize and know our own divinity because we are coming from a deeper place within. Being based in our own innermost essence, we are not as reactive. We are not as superficial. We are not as needy. We are more compassionate. We are more able to go with the flow. Life gets easier, even when it is hard.

Practice yoga. Know your own Divinity comes from a deep place within and reveals itself through meditation. Connect to your purpose. Invite these practices to help you stay balanced and let that be your gift to yourself.