March 3, 2025

Whether you are rolling out a Yoga mat, starting your workday, spending time with your children, or setting up your schedule and goals, it’s important to start with your intention. It doesn’t have to be anything complicated. For example, when beginning a physical Yoga practice, your intention may be to notice your breath, practice with compassion, or relaxation. The intention you set can vary from practice to practice, but setting one at the start of your practice can help guide how you practice and give you a focus.

The same is true off the mat. When you sit at your desk to start the day, asking “what is my intention?” can help you structure your day, give you focus, and ease feelings of overwhelm. You can check on your intention throughout the day, but knowing what your intention is makes it easier to say no to distractions as they come up.

When you are with loved ones, check in again on your intention. If your intention is to be fully present, let that help guide your time together. Again, it’s easier to let go of the distractions. You know that your focus is to be on the person you are with. This is especially powerful when healing from relational wounds—an intention to listen, trust, or stay open-hearted can help shift patterns of self-protection that may have once felt necessary but no longer serve you.

Intentions can be for the hour, they can also be for the week, month or even year. Intentions give you clarity and help direct your steps. When you set an intention, you can then see what will support you in holding that intention and what to let go of—at least for the duration of your intention. If you are working on rebuilding self-trust, your intention may be to show yourself kindness instead of self-criticism. If you are opening your heart to connection, your intention may be to approach conversations with curiosity instead of fear.

Perhaps you’d like to pull out your journal and spend some time reflecting on:

  • What are some intentions you want to set?

  • What are some of the hurdles or distractions in keeping that intention? 

  • How can your intention help you feel more secure and at ease in your relationships?

Check in each morning and see what your intention is for each day. See if your activities are supporting it. Remind yourself of your intention and let that be a filter for your focus. And don’t forget to set and practice your intention with compassion - it’s not about perfection!