Kundalini Yoga Resolutions for the New Year
Even though we can start every day with the intention to make a stronger commitment to our soul’s purpose, the approach of a New Year feels like the most opportune time to do so. For one, this is a time when people around the world are making new decisions about their life. Linking up with that group intention of renewal is very powerful.
What are you intending to change, grow with, or evolve towards this New Year?
Here are some kundalini yoga ideas that I am going to either add, or continue to incorporate, into my life this year:
1. Keep Jap-in’, Sahib!
Last year I started the practice of reading Japji every day (usually in the early morning). By the grace of this beautiful prayer, I was able to cope with a lot of change this year. Japji is the anchor in my day, the reminder that I am here in service to my soul. From this perspective, it is a lot easier to make the kinds of decisions I won’t later regret.
If you prefer to listen, rather than recite, this is my musical favorite version: “Song of the Soul” by Hari Bhajan and Sat Hari Singh.
2. Play Dress Up More
Kids have it all figured out sometimes. I mean, they get how different they feel in a Princess gown versus a Fireman suit, or their pajamas. I recently finished a 40-day Sadhana where I wore bana (spiritual dress) as much as possible each day. Dressing up each day, even to go to the supermarket, uplifts my own spirits, as well as others. When we dress elegantly, in light colors especially, we subtly inform people that we respect them enough to look regal. It also sets the standard for how we wish to be treated. After all, if we think we are worth beautiful clothing, we must be right!
3. Chant Like There's No Tomorrow!
2012 is the year of the Fifth Chakra (at the throat center) and the Physical Body. Most of us will be working on refining the way we communicate with the world, and, hopefully, teaching many people (whether in a classroom or standing in line at the bank) how to uplift themselves. There is no better way to accomplish all of this than by sharing mantra and yoga music. Whether you are a timid singer or a pro, start the year off singing and don’t stop. Your soul wants to hear YOUR voice.
To this end, I highly encourage you to check out local kirtan in your area, augment your yoga music library, and consider attending a kirtan festival like Sat Nam Fest in 2012.
4. Sanghat Nights
Is there anything more important than Community (i.e. Sanghat)? I think not. With this in mind, my husband and I have resolved to host one Yogi Bhajan Video Night per month this Year. If you are in Phoenix, please feel free to drop by! We look forward to gathering with our local Sanghat and learning more from the master. Other great ways to commune with like-minded people include: hosting a chant night, a potluck, or a meditation night at your house.
5. Fun Sadhana
Ok, I know, we’re yogis. We have trained our mind and body to go through painful practices, detox diets, and freezing cold showers in the early morning. But can we treat ourselves to something fun on a regular basis? Sometimes life can get a little too serious, even in our yoga practice. My friend has suggested that we incorporate one fun thing into our routine each day for 40 days. Consider doing this Sadhana to kickstart a triumphant, light-hearted, and fun-filled 2012. Some of my ideas include: rollerblading, jumping on my trampoline, skipping rope, arts & crafts, making fun videos, making silly instruments, writing funny stories, and more.
What would you do for a fun Sadhana?
Please send me your ideas and intentions for 2012. I look forward to hearing from you!
Blessings,
Sirgun
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yes I agree…we grow in community and our wellness group will be having spiritual cinema nights once a month. We have chosen to watch Dr David Hawkins videos. Other ideas will be to have a meditation and chant night. many blessings to you all in 2012…I am feeling uplifted and grateful especially with the current sadhana honoring the Divine Feminine.
I intend to grow the physical part of my yoga practice. Chronic ill-health is a huge problem, along with a lack of yoga teachers in my area. Having to organise long train journeys just to reach workshops being held irregularly in another county has been a real stumbling block. Now, though, I have DVDs! I don’t have to worry about whether I will have the energy or cognitive functioning or co-ordination to get to and from a class, and I can do as much as I feel able to – even just stopping and going straight to savasana if I’m exhausted. Hurray!
I’m also bedding in the self-care practice I have slowly, stumblingly begun this year. I cannot achieve for myself or others if I don’t have a way of life that nourishes my physical and emotional health. Finding and firming up healthy boundaries by learning to say, “I’m sorry, I’m not currently able to commit to that”, and by remembering to take time every day to meditate, nap, sit in silence, journal, get reiki or a massage, go for a short walk, and do activities that make me feel really good. One of those healthy things is something I heard of from ‘The Artist’s Way’ – a weekly, minimum 2-hour “artist’s date”, in which I do something that pleases my “inner artist” – going to an art exhibition, listening to music, painting, handcrafts.
Looking at the world in terms of what activities drain or boost my energy, and recognising that I need to do more of the latter than the former in order to have the resources to support myself and others. I suppose that not looking after myself has been a form of selfishness – I’ve deprived myself of happiness, and others of being able to rely on me for consistent support.
Sat Nam Linda— So happy to hear movie night will be making its appearance in your home as well. And thank you for introducing me to Dr. David Hawkins. Is there a video you suggest to start?
Sat Nam Karen—May 2012 bring you all peace, happiness and joy in your new life’s Sadhana. I think us women have a difficult time getting over the idea that taking care of ourselves is NOT self-indulgent. In fact, we cannot take care of ANYONE unless we have taken care of our own self first. Please keep us updated on your journey!