Designing a Yoga-Inspired Life:

Setting Goals for the Year as a Busy Mom

As busy moms, we wear many hats—caretaker, partner, professional, and so much more. Often, our personal aspirations take a backseat to the needs of our families. But what if there was a way to pursue your ambitions while honoring your role as a mom and partner? A yoga-inspired approach to goal setting can help you find this balance, offering a path that aligns with your values and resources.

The Connection Between Yoga Philosophy and Goal Setting

Yoga is more than physical postures; it’s a way of life that encourages self-awareness, balance, and intentional living. Key yoga philosophies can guide how we set and pursue goals:

• Sankalpa (Intention): Unlike traditional New Year’s resolutions focused on achieving specific outcomes, a Sankalpa is a heartfelt intention that aligns with your deepest values and purpose.
• Hint: Check out the video at the bottom for more about how to set your Sankalpa!
• Ahimsa (Non-Harming): This principle reminds us to be gentle with ourselves, avoiding the harm of overcommitment or burnout.
• Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness): Letting go of perfectionism and unrealistic expectations frees us to embrace what’s possible in the present moment.

By integrating these concepts, you can set meaningful goals that reflect your truth and acknowledge your current realities.

Practical Steps for Setting Yoga-Inspired Goals

Step 1: Create Space for Reflection

Take a few moments to connect with yourself. Sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Reflect on what truly matters to you and what you want to invite into your life this year. Journal your thoughts to uncover patterns or themes.

Step 2: Identify Your Sankalpa

Identifying your Sankalpa begins with self-awareness and reflection. Start by asking yourself questions such as:

• What brings me joy and fulfillment?
• What do I need more of in my life?
• What values or qualities do I want to cultivate this year?

As you reflect, notice recurring themes or desires. Your Sankalpa should be simple, positive, and phrased in the present tense, as if it is already true. For example:

• Instead of saying, “I want to stop feeling overwhelmed,” try, “I embrace calm and clarity.”
• Instead of “I want to be healthier,” try, “I nurture my body with love and care.”

Let your Sankalpa resonate deeply with your heart, acting as a guiding light for the year ahead.

Step 3: Break It Down

Big goals can feel overwhelming, especially with a busy schedule. Break them into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to prioritize self-care, start with just five minutes of daily mindfulness or a short yoga flow.

Step 4: Build in Grace

Life as a mom is unpredictable. Practice Kshama (Patience) by giving yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. Your Sankalpa is a compass, not a rigid map, allowing you to adjust your path as needed.

Living Your Yoga While Pursuing Goals

Incorporating yoga and mindfulness into your daily life can support your goals and keep you grounded. Here are some simple practices:

• Mindful Breathing: Take a few deep breaths during moments of stress to reset and refocus.
• Short Yoga Flows: Dedicate 10 minutes to a gentle yoga sequence to boost energy or unwind.
• Gratitude Practice: Reflect on three things you’re grateful for each day to cultivate positivity and presence.

You got this!

Living a yoga-inspired life is a journey, not a destination. By setting goals rooted in intention, self-compassion, and mindfulness, you can move toward your dreams while embracing the present moment. Revisit your Sankalpa regularly, and remember that progress is more important than perfection.

What’s your Sankalpa for this year? Share it in the comments or join our supportive community to continue your journey. Let’s design a life that reflects the balance, strength, and grace within us all.

Learn More!

Meet Your Guide

Shauna Hay-Viets, a mom of two and a yoga instructor with 13+ years of experience. Shauna specializes in teaching busy moms how to reduce stress and create balance through yoga and mindfulness. Shauna has a passion for helping her students achieve their greatest goals on and off the mat.