New Year with Santosha

As we welcome the new year, there’s an opportunity to reflect on the resolutions we might make and the energy behind them. What if, this year, we approached our goals differently—guided by the yogic principle of *Santosha*?

What is Santosha?

Santosha, one of the Niyamas in the Eight Limbs of Yoga, translates to contentment, acceptance, and appreciation. It invites us to find happiness within ourselves rather than seeking it from external sources. It’s about being content in our bodies, with who we are, and with the life we have right now.

This doesn’t mean we stop planning or dreaming—not at all! But it asks us to create a solid foundation of acceptance and gratitude. When we are at peace with our present circumstances, our dreams can grow from a place of wholeness rather than lack.

Santosha and New Year’s Resolutions

The start of a new year often brings thoughts of change, growth, and new possibilities. We might think about the habits we want to form, the experiences we want to invite into our lives, or the goals we hope to achieve. But before we pin those pictures to a vision board or draft a list of resolutions, let’s pause.

Santosha encourages us to appreciate what we already have first. Ask yourself: where are your desires coming from? Are they rooted in a feeling of lack, a sense of not being enough, or the belief that something is missing? Or are they coming from a place of contentment and gratitude for the richness already present in your life?

Changing the narrative

Can we shift this narrative? Can we return to Santosha and let our dreams grow from a place of appreciation? Instead of setting goals based on what we think we’re missing, let’s build them upon the abundance that already exists within and around us.

Start with gratitude

Before writing down what you want to achieve or change, begin with a gratitude list. Write down everything you appreciate in your life—big or small, people, things, or even the beauty of your environment. Make the list long! Don’t rush it. Once you’ve written it down, take a moment to sit with it. Close your eyes, feel the warmth of your rich life, and let that gratitude settle into your body. Notice where you feel it. Is it in your chest, your hands, or somewhere else? Let it expand.

Build your dreams from a place of richness

Now, with that sense of gratitude in your heart, return to your resolutions or dream life. Let them flow naturally from the richness you already feel. When we approach our desires from this space of Santosha, they are more likely to align with our true selves and bring lasting joy.

This year, let’s resolve to dream and grow—but with Santosha as our guide. Contentment doesn’t limit us; it grounds us, giving our aspirations the best possible foundation.

Lots of love,

Viki xxx