A Sankalpa is a heartfelt intention resolution or determination formed consciously in yoga practice. Unlike ordinary goals or wishes a sankalpa emerges from deep self-understanding and connects to one’s dharma or life purpose. The Sanskrit term combines ‘san’ meaning connection to the highest truth and ‘kalpa’ meaning rule or vow indicating its nature as a commitment aligned with one’s highest potential.
In yoga nidra and other meditative practices the sankalpa is typically introduced during a receptive state of consciousness when the mind is most open to positive suggestion. It’s stated in present tense as if already true (e.g. ‘I am balanced and at peace’ rather than ‘I will become balanced’). This approach recognizes that the quality being cultivated already exists within—the practice simply brings it forth.
Traditional texts emphasize that an effective sankalpa should be clear concise positive and meaningful to the practitioner. Unlike conventional goal-setting which focuses on what one wants to achieve a sankalpa addresses who one wishes to become or what quality they wish to manifest in their life and practice.
Modern yoga teachers often suggest working with the same sankalpa for extended periods—sometimes months or even years—allowing it to gradually permeate all aspects of one’s being and practice before evolving or shifting to a new intention.
