06/24/2026
Our yoga practice is most actively on display when we are on our mats with our physical or asana practice. The unseen aspect of our yoga practice is how we approach our daily lives.
This yogic "way of living" is often studied through the Yamas and Niyamas, which are considered yoga's ethical guidelines or as author Deborah Adele refers to them in her book, "The Yamas & Niyamas," as jewels. These practical teachings are a guide designed to bring more awareness to not only your body, but your thoughts and actions.
Recently in a yoga teacher training session, we talked about the Niyama, "Santosha" or Contentment. The question was raised, "What is the difference between contentment and joy?"
Much like the saying, "the grass is greener on the other side," we often seek satisfaction from outside ourselves. We think about what others have and compare their bounty to what we have. We also compare ourselves against ourselves. This leads us to yearn for something outside of our current experience.
Joy and happiness are fleeting emotions -- they come and go. We feel joy when we receive accolades at work or a call from a friend. And yet, we long for more, creating fluctuations in our state of being.
One goal of yoga is to achieve an equanimous mind, not experiencing the highs and lows of thoughts or emotions. Contentment is being at peace with your current state of being. "Santosha invites us into contentment by taking refuge in a calm center, opening our hearts in gratitude for what we have," according to Adele.
When one is content with oneself, with who one is at their core, they are unwavering in their gratitude for what is. One can then experience joy, happiness, disappointment, frustration knowing they can always come back to their equal mind and the stability of contentment.
This doesn't mean we are complacent or don't seek to improve our lives, but our emotions are less intwined with the outcome, much like the practice of non-attachment.
As a practice today, I invite you to think about five things you are grateful for. Write them down and reflect on them. Sit for a few moments in quiet to let them sink into your being.
With gratitude,
Annie
