The Power of Intention

So how many times have you been in yoga class and heard the instructor ask you to “set your intention?” Maybe it’s the first time you've been asked, or the fiftieth time, but either way, you still aren't totally sure what setting an intention means exactly.

An intention is a higher-consciousness of a thought, a thing, a goal, and using it for a higher purpose. Intentions provide you with an agenda to help you set your priorities and expectations. By consciously setting an intention, you are saying to yourself, and the universe, that you are committed to this thought, this thing, this goal. Making your intention clear also helps you become more mindful when it goes off track, so you can quickly self-correct.       

Situations may arise from time to time that throw us off balance. A big part of a successful intention is finding ways to keep it in front of your awareness at all times. Write it down, repeat it, record it, post it where you’ll see it often. Once you put that intention out to the universe, an energy is formed.

Setting an intention will not only bring your yoga practice to a deeper level, but can bring your daily life to a deeper level. Try setting an intention as part of your everyday routine and squeeze it somewhere between hitting your alarm and brushing your teeth. Remember that the best intentions are not material wants or needs, but desires of the heart like the ability to forgive, confidence, strength, honesty, spirituality, peace, and compassion. Intentions are all about what is important to you.  So what do you want to be intentional about?

Did you know…that yoga is a practice that you carry with you throughout the day, long after your

time on the mat has ended, so it’s the best place to set a daily intention. Movement Works offers a variety of yoga practices including Mommy and Me yoga, family yoga, kids and tweens yoga, gentle yoga, and flow yoga. Check out our latest schedule for days and times.