Intention.

in·ten·tion (n-tnshn)

n.

1. A course of action that one intends to follow.

2.a. An aim that guides action; an objective.

Intentions. We have them, we wait for them to come, like the universe is just going to drop them into our laps. But first we have to put the intention out there into the world. It is said that at the New Moon you should make a list of your intentions.

The new moon is the birthing cycle of the moon's various phases. The new moon phase is an optimal time for planning and seeding your intentions. Seedlings need a period of gestation before they break through the soil and reach for the sunlight. This is also true for our ideas and our desires. The dark side of the moon, with its mysterious unseen forces, offers a nurturing environment where our intentions can establish roots before their miraculous manifestations begin to sprout and reach out to the stars.

Intentions are not to be confused with goals:

"Setting intention, at least according to Buddhist teachings, is quite different than goal making. It is not oriented toward a future outcome. Instead, it is a path or practice that is focused on how you are "being" in the present moment. Your attention is on the ever-present "now" in the constantly changing flow of life. You set your intentions based on understanding what matters most to you and make a commitment to align your worldly actions with your inner values.

Goals help you make your place in the world and be an effective person. But being grounded in intention is what provides integrity and unity in your life.Ironically, by being in touch with and acting from your true intentions, you become more effective in reaching your goals than when you act from wants and insecurities.

There are only two things you are responsible for in this practice: Throughout each day, ask yourself if you are being true to your deepest intentions. If you're not, start doing so immediately, as best as you're able. The outcome of your inquiry and effort may seem modest at first. But be assured, each time you start over by reconnecting to your intention, you are taking one more step toward finding your own authenticity and freedom. In that moment, you are remembering yourself and grounding your life in your heart's intention." -yoga journal "the hearts intention"

You don't just set an intention and then walk away - you make your intentions a conscious part of your daily life.

*I always set an intention when I walk into yoga class. I dedicate my practice to this intention: whether it be a person, place or thing. Here's an exercise I found online:

Selecting an intention at the beginning of each class will help bring clarity to your practice, clear your mind of useless chatter and keep you focused why you’re on your mat. Keep your intention simple –a word, a phrase, a person. Pick one thing to reflect on throughout your practice and stick with it. Breathe, peace, ahimsa or maybe simply dedicating your practice to someone in your life who could use the energy.

Namaste.