Santosha in Depth

Santosha is one of the Niyamas from the Second Limb of Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Yoga. The Niyamas are precepts of individual or inner discipline. They’re concerned with how we treat ourselves. They’re often referred to as the “Observances” or “Do’s” of Yoga.

The essence of Santosha is to be content with who you are and what you have. This doesn’t mean that we don’t try to better ourselves or our situation but it does mean that we should seek happiness in each moment. Honor the present while growing towards the future. And also to accept what happens. Instead of complaining when things go wrong, accept what has happened then learn from it.

An example I like to share with my students that illustrates this principle in the real life is trying to lose weight. I could look in the mirror and berate myself for my weight and tell myself that I need to stop eating so I can drop 10 pounds. Or I could instead acknowledge that I do things that promote a healthy lifestyle: I exercise regularly, I eat healthy, and I feel good.

I don’t need to lose weight to like myself.

This of course doesn’t mean that I won’t try to lose weight, just that it’s not going to rule my life. I’m still going to wear swimsuits, go to the beach, and have fun with my friends. I’m not going to do anything unhealthy to achieve the goal. And if I never achieve it, so be it.

Santosha = contentment with oneself

Namaste.