Four Intentions for the New Year

Each new year is an opportunity to start afresh. This is supported by the transition from December to January—the turning of the calendar from 2021 to 2022, and by our own inclination to leave behind what is no longer serving us and to choose the next best steps in our life. Every year I like to re-affirm these four intentions written many years ago by Deepak Chopra.

•    I want a joyful, energetic body.
•    I want a loving, compassionate heart.
•    I want a restful, alert mind.
•    I want lightness of being.

As you can see, these intentions move from body, emotions, and mind to spirit. These are the domains of consciousness where pure awareness takes form as sensations, images, feelings, and thoughts. There is a flow that is natural to everyone’s life, and what you are intending here is to replace resistance, disorder, effort, and struggle with an easier way of living.

If you already meditate or pursue your own inner practice, you can add the four intentions at the end of your session. Place your attention on your heart. Repeat the first intention and let the intention find its place in you. Return your attention to your heart as you move through each intention.

May these four intentions bless your life with satisfaction, joy and peace.