Three Tools for Inner Growth

Intentions Affirmations Sankalpa

Intentions, affirmations, and Sankalps are three simple yet powerful tools for personal growth, self-discovery, and transformation.

While they share many similarities, each serves a unique purpose and can be used in different ways.

What is an intention?

An intention is a focus or goal you set for yourself.
It is about direction — what you choose to place your attention and energy on.

Intentions can be used:

for the day
before a meditation
when facing a situation or transition

The purpose is to signal to yourself (and the universe) where you choose to direct your energy.

Intentions are like a conscious request:
you send it out, and then open yourself to cooperation between the universe and your inner self.

Examples of intentions:

My intention today is to remain open to signs from the universe.
Today, I choose to meet myself with patience.

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What is an affirmation?

An affirmation is a sentence you repeat to strengthen an inner belief or state.
It is phrased in the present tense — as if it is already true.

Affirmations are not about forcing something new to happen,
but about giving the mind and body a new reference point to rest in.

They function as an inner mantra — something you can return to again and again.

Examples of affirmations:

I am safe.
I live in flow.
Today, I am calm and open.

Note: The word “today” can also be used in affirmations, as long as the sentence describes a state of being, not a conscious choice or action.

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What is a Sankalpa?

A sankalpa is an inner commitment or a deep intention you make to yourself.

It expresses either a truth you already carry within, or a quality, direction, or area of growth you wish to cultivate more fully in your life.

A sankalpa is worked with over time and serves as a guide for conscious choices, personal growth, and development. Unlike an intention, which often relates to a specific day or situation, a sankalpa usually accompanies you over a longer period of time.

A sankalpa can be a reminder of who you are, who you wish to become, or what you wish to create in your life.

It is often used in yoga, meditation, and especially in Yoga Nidra, where it is repeated in a state of deep relaxation to become more deeply rooted in the subconscious mind.

A Sankalpa Can Take Two Forms

1. A Truth About Who You Are

These describe a quality or essence that already exists within you.

Examples:

• I am peace.
• I am whole.
• I am love.
• I am secure within myself.

2. A Quality or Direction You Wish to Develop

These point toward something you wish to strengthen or create in your life.

Examples:

• My daily practice is established.
• I meet myself with patience.
• I prioritize self-care.
• I strengthen my trust in myself.

Why Use a Sankalpa?

A sankalpa can help you:

• deepen self-reflection
• make more conscious choices
• cultivate desired qualities
• create harmony between practice and everyday life
• support personal growth and development

Sankalpa in Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra is one of the most powerful methods for working with a sankalpa.

By repeating your sankalpa at the beginning and end of the practice, while in a state of deep relaxation, the intention can become more deeply rooted in the subconscious mind.

In this way, a sankalpa becomes like a seed that gradually grows through conscious choices,

actions, and experiences in everyday life.

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INTENTION