There comes a time when we feel the need to begin again — not necessarily because the calendar says so, but because something inside us is ready to shift. When we feel stuck, depleted, or misaligned, yoga offers us tools to reconnect, realign, and renew.
In yogic philosophy, the practice of Sankalpa— setting heartfelt intention — is not about striving or manifesting from the ego. It’s a sacred process of listening deeply and aligning with our soul’s purpose. Through conscious letting go, inner inquiry, and action rooted in awareness, we can create space for meaningful change.
In Hindu mythology, Kali and Shiva represent the archetypal forces of destruction and transformation. When we invoke these energies — whether through mantra, meditation, or symbolic awareness — we attune to the courage it takes to let go of what no longer serves. We often resist change, clinging to outdated stories or relationships (aparigraha), and in doing so, we lose connection with trust (Ishvara Pranidhana). But when we begin to align with something greater than ourselves — with the universal current — we tap into intuition (buddhi) and truth (satya).
As Joseph Campbell said, We must be willing to get rid of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”
Manifesting the Yogic Way: A Threefold Practice
- Let go of what no longer serves
- Connect with your inner wisdom
- Align energy and will with purpose
Letting Go
In yoga, Apana Vayu — one of the five subtle energy flows — governs the release of what no longer serves. On a physical level, it relates to elimination and detoxification. Energetically, it helps us let go of stagnant thoughts, emotions, and attachments.
Apana is connected to the root chakra (Muladhara) and grounds us in the body. Postures like Malasana (yogi squat) or Baddha Konasana (cobbler’s pose) support this downward, anchoring energy. Long, slow exhalations — especially when followed to their very end — deepen the connection to the apanic current and restore a sense of calm embodiment.
Connecting with Intuition
Before we set intentions, we must become receptive. When the ego is in charge — driven by lists, pressure, or fear — intentions lack depth. True Sankalpa arises from buddhi, our innate wisdom, and aligns with the Vijnanamaya Kosha, the subtle body layer of insight and discernment.
Try this meditation:
- Sit or lie down comfortably. Let the body soften and relax.
- Bring your awareness to the breath, allowing it to flow naturally.
- Turn your palms upward, creating a gesture of openness.
- Rest your awareness in your heart space. If you like, gently place a hand on your chest.
- Ask from this place: *What does my heart truly searching for? What is my hearts desire*
- Let images, feelings, or words rise up. Sense into what resonates. What feels magnetic, honest, alive?
Bow the head slightly, aligning the Ajna chakra (third eye) with the heart. This symbolic gesture invites the mind to be guided by heart-wisdom, rather than logic or fear. The answers that arise may not come as words — the soul speaks in feeling, in resonance. Trust the quiet clarity of knowing.
Aligning with Energy and Effort
When intentions are aligned with intuition, they carry power. That doesn’t mean the path will be easy — obstacles may still appear — but there’s a sense of rightness, a quiet confidence that you’re moving with the current of your life.
No one else can tell you what your soul’s path is. This is your sacred duty — and your birthright.
After insight comes effort. Intentions rooted in the heart must be energised through the fire of Manipura Chakra, the centre of will and transformation. This is where vision becomes action. Without activation, even the clearest intention can remain dormant.
When your Ajna (vision) passes through the heart’s truth and awakens the fire of Manipura (will), your intention becomes empowered. Dreams begin to manifest, not from force, but from alignment. From dharma.
So pause. Listen. Let go. Align. Act.
