By Kealoha DeLuz
As I journey through life’s ups and downs, I’ve come to appreciate the significance of inner peace of contentment/Santosha. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become preoccupied with external validation and material possessions that leave us feeling unfulfilled and dissatisfied. The rise of social media and the ever-changing news landscape have exacerbated these feelings, as constant exposure to negative news and comparisons can lead to anxiety and discontent. Amidst global conflicts and rising inflation, it’s essential to find ways to navigate these challenges and cultivate a sense of contentment/Santosha. While it may not be easy to quiet the mind’s incessant chatter, practicing Pratipaksha Bhavanam —replacing negative thoughts with positive ones—can be a powerful tool. When studying a sutra, it’s often helpful to incorporate related sutras to support the practice. However, it’s important to approach this process gradually and gently, as the mind may need time to adjust.
The ancient practice of yoga offers a solution to our pervasive discontent: Santosha. Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “contentment,” Santosha is a state of being satisfied with the present moment, regardless of external circumstances. It’s a cornerstone of the Niyama’s, the ethical observances in yoga. Santosha goes beyond mere happiness. It’s about a supreme joy that transcends material possessions. While many of us seek happiness in things or people, true contentment lies in being blissful even when we don’t get what we desire. Material things are temporary. As the Buddha said, “The only constant in life is change”. Our possessions, relationships, and even our bodies are subject to flux. By clinging to these impermanent things, we set ourselves up for disappointment and pain.
Recently, I faced a heartbreaking loss: I had to say goodbye to my 15-year-old cat, Henry. The bond I shared with Henry was deep and profound. He was more than just a pet; he was a beloved member of our family. When the time came to euthanize him, I was overwhelmed with grief and sorrow. The yogic teachings I had been studying provided solace during this difficult time. Through mindful meditation, deep breathing and the Yoga sutra teaching of Patanjali, I was able to calm my mind and accept the inevitable. The practice of Santosha helped me to let go of my attachment to Henry, and I’ve personally found incorporating Santosha into my daily life to be transformative. It has helped me navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and grace.
One of my favorite practices is mindful meditation. By focusing on my breath and being present in the moment, I’ve been able to observe my mind as a third person might, detaching myself as if watching a friend make their own choices. This detachment has helped me reduce stress and anxiety by not being overly attached to my thoughts and feelings.
Additionally, gratitude journaling has been instrumental in shifting my perspective and appreciating the small joys in life. By focusing on gratitude for everything and avoiding dwelling on what I don’t have, I’ve been able to navigate my thoughts more positively. Nature walks have also played a significant role in my journey toward contentment. Spending time in nature helps me connect with my inner self and appreciate the beauty of the present moment. The sounds of birds chirping, the feel of the sun on my skin, and the sight of lush greenery all contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility. This helps me stay grounded and appreciate what the universe has to offer. I believe that every human being has the potential to find something in life to be grateful for.
By cultivating Santosha, we can discover a profound sense of peace and fulfillment. This practice empowers us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
While studying the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali, I consistently return to the foundational sutra 1.2: Yogas’ Citta Vritti Nirodhah, which translates to ‘The restraint of the modifications of the mind-stuff is Yoga.’ This sutra serves as the bedrock upon which all other sutras are built. I believe it is imperative to genuinely comprehend Patanjali’s message here. Just as we construct a house on a solid concrete foundation, we must establish a firm groundwork before erecting the walls.
Kealoha Deluz has been a holistic health practitioner for 30 years, holds a Master of Divinity, Ph.D. in Holistic Studies, and is currently working towards a degree in transpersonal counseling. He has been an Integral Yoga Teacher since 2006 and is a Raja Yoga trainer, advanced level Hatha Yoga, meditation and stress management instructor. Kealoha is a licensed massage therapist, skin care practitioner, and holistic life coach. Kealoha Born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, and currently lives and works in San Francisco, California. Divinity, Ph.D. in Holistic Studies, and is currently working towards a degree in transpersonal counseling. He has been an Integral Yoga Teacher since 2006 and is a Raja Yoga trainer, advanced level Hatha Yoga, meditation and stress management instructor. Kealoha is a licensed massage therapist, skin care practitioner, and holistic life coach. Kealoha Born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, and currently lives and works in San Francisco, California.