Set the Foundation, Open to Grace: Building a Life That Sticks
Dec 28, 2024As the year winds down, many of us find ourselves reflecting—what did we achieve, and where did we fall short? What intentions are we carrying into the new year? This season of reflection is sacred, yet for many, it can also feel like a cycle of frustration: setting intentions that never quite materialize.
So, how do we make our goals stick? How do we align our actions with our vision in a way that feels sustainable and true?
In Anusara Yoga, the first principle is Set the Foundation, Open to Grace. This practice beautifully mirrors the process of intention-setting and fulfillment. It reminds us that both structure and surrender are essential for transformation.
Set the Foundation
In yoga, we begin every pose by carefully placing our hands and feet, creating a stable base from which the pose can grow. Without this solid foundation, the pose falters—misalignment, discomfort, or even injury follows.
The same is true in life. Setting an intention is like setting your foundation. It’s the starting point for everything else to unfold. If the foundation is unclear—if your intention lacks focus or authenticity—life’s inevitable challenges will cause misalignment.
What do you stand for? What supports you as you move through life? Take time to get clear. Place yourself mindfully, just as you would in a yoga pose. Your intention is the groundwork upon which your life will be built.
Open to Grace
Once the foundation is solid, we invite in Grace. This is the metaphysical part—the surrender. While we may have a vision of the outcome we desire, Grace reminds us that life often unfolds in ways we can’t predict.
When we surrender to this flow, we stay present, resilient, and adaptable. The practice becomes less about controlling every outcome and more about returning to our foundation when life knocks us off balance.
The Practice On (and Off) the Mat
Today, as we step into the challenging pose Ashtavakrasana, we’ll embody this principle. With a strong foundation in our hands and feet, and a willingness to surrender how the pose “should” look, we’ll explore the balance between structure and flow.
Off the mat, consider how you can apply this wisdom to your intentions for the year ahead. Start with a clear, mindful foundation. Ask yourself:
- What do I truly want?
- What supports me in achieving it?
Then, let Grace take the lead. Trust the process. And when life inevitably challenges you, come back to your foundation. Realign. Rebuild with care.
Because when we set the foundation and open to Grace, we create a life that doesn’t just stick—it flourishes.
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