YH JAN-FEB 2019 | Page 57

A s a mystic, spiritual teacher and guide for over 30 years I am often asked, “What does it mean to set an intention?” and “Are there any tools I can use to succeed in reaching my desired intention?” To answer these questions we first must understand what an intention is. What is the difference between setting an intention and simply having a desire? An intention is an extremely focused thought that carries with it the manifesting energy of heart (heart’s desire). Powerfully focused energy is like a river of water. When water is harnessed and channeled in a specific direction, that water is very powerful. A powerful intention is like a river of flowing water. Simply put; focused energy manifests, unfocused energy does not. You can say, “I desire to lose weight.” However, it’s what you do – what action you take, that will determine whether or not your intention manifests. Setting an intention is the first step; acting on that intention is the second, more difficult step. The follow through is where we usually fall short, because, let’s face it, it's just plain hard to re-set a lifelong pattern. We often end up feeling frustrated and guilty for not succeeding. The truth is change takes time, commitment and practice- daily, moment by moment, contrary action to an old way of being. When our lives are filled with stress, busyness, kids, and work, staying focused on a specific intention is daunting but not impossible. I want to share with you some tools to succeed in achieving your intentions and your New Year's resolutions. YOUR BRAIN POWER IS YOUR BEST FRIEND Your brain is an amazing power house and your best friend for helping you with your intention as long as you guide its thinking patterns. Your brain is like a computer. For years and years you have programmed your brain to do certain things. It has learned behaviors and emotional responses that you may not even be aware of. You can change those behaviors by thinking differently. You can actually update your programming to better suit who you are today and who you want to be in the future. However, you are going to need your heart to make this possible, because the heart is the generator of your creating energy. So often we feel disconnected from our hearts and souls because we’re operating on auto pilot; we’ve let our brain's programming run the show. It’s time to reconnect to your heart this New Year in order to make your resolution work. Go within the quiet center, the flame of hope in the middle of your heart. This is where your soul’s purpose resides. This is where your mystical heart power infuses your intention with the miracle creative process. This is why you’re setting your intention, your resolution, your New Year's conviction, because deep in your heart you know this is an important change you need to begin to live the life you truly desire. Jan./Feb. 2019 www.yogicherald.com 55