Santosha Meditation

How often do we find ourselves in a state of discontent - not satisfied with ourselves, our jobs, our relationships, or environment? The yogic precept of Santosha, or contentment, is based entirely on our ability to empower ourselves with our Divine Will (love, wisdom and power in perfect balanced action). This is an INSIDE JOB, and depending on the outer for our peace (co-dependence) only ends in frustration and suffering. Try this short meditation on Contentment, and believe that it always begins within.

Acceptance/Contentment Meditation

(Santosha – 2nd Niyama)

Niyama – Second Limb which is Self Purification by Discipline

Sitting in a comfortable position, close the eyes and let your breathing remain natural.

The second limb of Patanjali’s classic eightfold path of yoga is: Niyama or self-discipline. There are five niyamas, the second of which is Santosha or contentment.

Begin to experiment with the following affirmations:

Breathe in and affirm to yourself, “What I have is enough.”

Breathe out and affirm to yourself, “What I have is enough.”

Breathe in and affirm to yourself, “What I am is enough.”

Breathe out and affirm to yourself, “What I am is enough.”

Breathe in and affirm to yourself, “What I do is enough.”

Breathe out and affirm to yourself, “What I do is enough.”

Breathe in and affirm to yourself, “What I’ve achieved is enough.”

Breathe out and affirm to yourself, “What I’ve achieved is enough.”

Become aware of both the feelings of peace and the feelings of resistance that might come up.

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