Intentionality vs. Mindfulness

And if you have an intention, set it now.

I'm not really one for intention during yoga. I don't know what it is. I just practice. Perhaps that is my intention: clarity of mind while practicing. Perhaps I should speak my stream of consciousness and see what's going on in there. I'll admit to talking to myself sometimes. -It's supposed to help you focus on the thought you are speaking. (I'm dipping into what is more or less mindfulness.)

To me, intentionality is the destination. It's also a decision. You have to make a choice on what your intention is. Now, I'm either not good at making decisions (which sometimes I'm not), or I have no desire to set a desired outcome. I'm more about the journey, and I don't have a set destination. That's the free spirit in me. Intention is not necessarily the ultimate end goal.

Intertwined with mindfulness, intentionality gives you "strength" behind your actions. It's not knee-jerk, reactionary. It is a keen awareness behind everything you do.

The more mindful I am, the more I enjoy little, seemingly insignificant actions -such as the mere typing of these words on a keyboard. This is more than mindfulness; the deliberation behind my actions is the intention of thoughts into a tangible format.

My mantra lately has been "a stitch in time saves nine." Nothing typically break-through, but something I need to practice more.

When I do set an intention however, the results are much more fulfilling. To me, mindfulness is the JOURNEY towards your intention.

The Power of Practice

I find the use of the word "practice" for yoga fascinating.

The word practice is often used in reference to athletes (obvious!), but also, doctors and lawyers. I feel like this usage is often overlooked.

Practice is never finished.

Practice must be done often.

You are always learning from practice.

Practice makes you more adept.

The concept of using the word practice is not lost on me. Don't forget that your yoga practice is made up of all your practices.

So don't forget to go to practice!

Chill AF.

I haven't been to yoga in a while.

Not as long as I haven't posted, but a long while.

I'm trying to build up strength again, so I'm going to Level 1's. Today I went to the Community Class and it was inspiring. Sure, they're not as quiet before class starts, but I grabbed a spot in the back and forgot about how much I love just watching yoga.

Also, very happy that I haven't lost as much strength as I would believe.

Might try my hand at this blogging thing again, or might not. Just updating because once again yoga has made me feel amazing.