In setting an intention, we consciously choose how and where to direct our energy. It helps set the tone for our day, guiding how we show up for ourselves and others, and how we approach any situation. It can serve as a north star, helping us to realign when we notice ourselves slipping into old patterns of thought or behavior that we wish to rewire. 

It can also shift our perception, adjusting the lens through which we see the world and interpret our experience. This subtle yet powerful act allows us to move from more reactive or assumptive states, to more responsive or even reflective states that help us become more present. It invites clarity and awareness with a deeper connection to ourselves and our surroundings. 

Our intention becomes the quiet compass guiding how we engage, what we notice, and ultimately, how we experience life;  what we emit out is reflected back to us.

Consciously choose a word or phrase that reflects how you wish to approach your day. Let it serve as a reminder of where you want to focus your energy and how you want to feel. Throughout the day, return to this intention, checking in with yourself and realigning when you notice you're off track.

A few examples to get you started: 

  • I see beauty in the world. → Keep your eyes open throughout the day and you'll notice hidden gems of beauty all around you (leaves rustling in the wind, people walking a cross walk, a feather floating in the sky, etc.). 
  • Gentle. → Soften your physical experience with this reminder to be gentle on yourself, to slow down, to pause. You'll energetically emit the same gentleness outward to others, which can then reflect back to you.
  • Human connection. → Signal to the world that you're open to meeting others, and you'll find that little opportune moments to connect with people will appear throughout your day — be brave and reach out.
  • Allow change. → Get out of your own way, and allow the Universe (and you) to craft something entirely different than what you've come to expect — i.e. allow your body to change, allow your sibling to show up differently, etc. 

To keep the intention top of mind throughout the day, consider doing one or all of the following:

  • Put the word on your cellphone's wallpaper or via a widget (you can do this with Insight Timer's app)
  • Write the intention on a post-it and leave it on your bathroom mirror or on your desk
  • Take regular moments throughout the day (set reminders as needed) to pause, breathe, recall your energy, and then realign to your intention as originally intended
  • Our intention can easily slip our mind throughout the day. So do not be discouraged when this happens, just gently bring yourself back to it, and begin again. 
  • Setting an intention helps you show up for yourself, others, or moments in your life in a particular way. So feel free to also set an intention for things like a long-term project, a relationship, everyday errands, etc.

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Mindfulness
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Mindfulness

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Intention

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A simple shift in intention has the power to reshape your entire experience in any given moment.
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