October Theme - SANTOSHA

This month, our studio theme is Santosha, the Sanskrit term for contentment -- the ability to remain at peace and centered regardless of circumstances.

It is also one of the 5 Niyamas, the 2nd limb of Yoga, which Ginger focuses on this month for her 8 Limbs Yoga Series.

We chose Santosha as a way to remember our natural state, and that contentment is not something we gain or pursue, but realize. While it’s completely natural that we feel the turbulent waves of life’s challenges on the surface, we don’t let it disturb the depths of our peaceful essence.

The practice of Santosha feels critical now more than ever, so that we can move beyond the noise, and get to our still center.

FWIW, here’s the Chaturmukham hand mudra, along with a meditation associated with Santosha:

Let the tips of your fingers touch, with your hands relaxed. Then release the thumb, and point them straight up. Your fingers are apart and slightly bend like you’re holding a small basketball. Your wrists and forearms can rest on your belly.

Once your breath settles, follow its rhythm and imagine a wave of contentment washing over you. With every inhalation, bathe your inner and physical body with this sense of contentment. With every exhalation, imagine contentment sinking into your bones, bringing greater ease into your mind and body.