Sankalpa- Planting Seeds of Intention
Sitting at my desk the second night of the calendar year 2026 dressed in layers, my feet, even in slippers, on a cushion as a barrier against the cold hardwood floors, I contemplate this threshold time.
Reflecting on the past year of surgery and recovery as well as the life draining national events , I find myself still exhausted. I have small bursts of energy, inspiration and motivation that need supported by rest and recovery.
Here in this threshold time, in the quiet frozen night, I lack any desire to “conquer” life, make bold plans to achieve and grow.
Sankalpa – Intention rather than Resolution
Sankalpa, intention, comes from the yogi tradition, and references, our deepest desire for an awakened life. it is intertwined with Dharma and isn’t necessarily about creating goals, but living with awareness in all aspects of life.
In thinking about intention during this deep freeze after the hustle bustle of the holiday, it feels like I am sitting with my Burpee seed catalog planning my garden. Although my literal garden won’t become a reality until much later in late winter/early spring, Sankalpa reflection is for all year round, not just the new year. However, the new year can be a great time to renew and reflect around how we are living our lives and if we are doing that in alignment with our values, and if we are being of service to the greater good.
Planting Seeds
I plant seeds of intention for slow, soft, tender strength-renewing my muscles, patience with the growth of my bones around titanium hip, reclaiming agency and coordination.
I plant seeds of intention for honoring and tending to the raw, vulnerable parts of myself.
I plant seeds of intention to enjoy my own company, cherish solitude, and Create for the sheer joy of the process.
I plant seeds of intention to practice deep listening and mindfulness in my interactions with my beloved people and beyond.
I plant seeds of intention to be in alignment with the energies of liberation and the collective well-being of my community and beyond.
I plant seeds of intention to be thoughtful and responsive in my activism.
I plant seeds of intention to center relationship in all things.
I plant seeds of intention for clarity around focusing my energy to that which nourishes and sustains me, including the food, I eat, what I take in in terms of media and books, and in the form of who I connect with and spend time.
I plant seeds of intention to honor this gift that is life and each day that I am given.
May this garden bloom in its own time, Rooted in connection, compassion, and creativity.
