Om, Shant, Shanti, Shanti

Om, peace, peace, peace. It is that time of year. Time to give thanks for all we have. Time to consider the people, things, places we've been, experiences we've had and be grateful for all we have in our lives. This mantra is a mantra of the season, although appropriate in practice any time of year. It helps us set an intention of gratitude for our life and our practice. We are able to affirm that peace is there for the taking in our lives, we simply must choose to accept it. Yoga Journal suggests setting intent with each shanti: first shanti = peace within self, second shanti = peace in your family and friends, third shanti = peace on Earth. This helps to open the heart and accept even those we are in struggles with in our lives. Open your heart this season and invite peace within; set the intention to give and receive peace.