SANTOSHA – Contentment

Santosha – the second of the Niyamas – translates to “contentment”. It’s about finding fulfillment and peace within ourselves, rather than seeking it externally. This does not imply complacency or the absence of ambition; rather, it involves embracing and appreciating our present circumstances while striving for personal growth. We need to consider what goals are truly important to our life, our world and our well-being.

In our pursuit of happiness, it’s common to seek fulfillment through external achievements or possessions. However, true contentment arises when we recognize that lasting peace comes from within. The Bhagavad Gita teaches us to look inward for peace and happiness, emphasizing that ‘when we rely on things which are external to us to bring us freedom, we inevitably bind ourselves to discontentment even more’.

Constantly chasing after external sources of happiness can be exhausting and ultimately unfulfilling. While achievements and acquisitions may provide temporary joy, they often leave us yearning for more, perpetuating a cycle of desire and discontentment. Santosha reminds us that our true essence, our “true Self,” remains unchanging and inherently complete.

Instead of postponing happiness until we achieve certain goals or acquire specific possessions, Santosha encourages us to embrace our inherent worthiness and appreciate the present moment. We often wait to ‘be ourselves’ until we’ve accomplished a never-ending to-do list of things that will supposedly make us ‘better’. But the truth is – you will always be you. You can either continue to disregard your awesomeness in favor of reaching for something you think you’re supposed to be, or appreciate it, love it, and be the best you can be right now. Truly, authentically, unapologetically you. Content with all you are and all you have because there is no one else who can offer the world what you have to offer. By cultivating gratitude for what we have and who we are, we can experience contentment regardless of external circumstances.

Practical ways to practice Santosha

• Cultivate self-acceptance and an attitude of gratitude for the blessings and abundance in your life, finding joy in the present moment. Do not wait for happiness. Recognize that you are already enough and that true happiness comes from within. Avoid the trap of seeking fulfillment through external sources, and instead focus on nurturing inner peace and contentment.
• Embrace the journey of self-discovery and live authentically, knowing that you possess everything you need to lead a fulfilling life. Get out there and do whatever it is you’ve been waiting to do until you’re ‘good enough’ because you already are.
• Practice self-love and self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness, care, and respect. Embrace your strengths and imperfections, and celebrate your unique qualities and contributions.
• Prioritize activities and relationships that bring you genuine joy and fulfillment, and let go of unnecessary distractions and obligations.
• Cultivate inner peace & presence through practices such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature. Connect with your inner self and cultivate a sense of serenity and calmness that transcends external circumstances.
• Practice non-attachment by letting go of the desire for status, outcomes, or material possessions.