If we understand that our daily actions are the moment to moment expression of the intentions we hold in our hearts, we transform our lives, bringing meaning to everything we do.  For example, every choice we make can be guided by either a “me-centered” or “we-centered” mindset.  If we hold a vision for a more peaceful world, we can do our best to bring peace into each interaction.  

A meaningful intention is a clear expression of the intended purpose for our actions.  Ask yourself, “What effect do I want my behavior to have?” or “What virtues do I want to serve as guiding principles for how I show up in the world?”  The clearer we are about our intention, the easier it is to find ways to live it. Actions performed with genuine care for others are healing for our hearts, and we find joy in giving rather than looking for a reward or outcome.  This is how we really bring our Yoga practice to life.

I believe it is essential to build into our lives some regular method of calling forth the Divine Presence within, whether it is by meditating or serving, chanting or praying, studying or loving others. Otherwise, our ships can easily be blown off course by the strong winds around us. Each of us can create a personal vision for this life, and take the steering wheel in hand, so let us make good use of this opportunity. Doing so makes our lives much more meaningful and enjoyable.

If we want our lives to be centered around spiritual values, we must consciously make time for the teachings and practices that attune our hearts and minds to Spirit. Since we are so strongly influenced by the culture around us—which has also shaped our subconscious minds—most of us need to reconnect over and over to the spiritual truths we have come to believe in.