If you’ve ever found yourself at a crossroads in life, wondering if there’s more out there to explore, you’re not alone. Some may argue that if you practice santosha – the yogic philosophy of cultivating a sense of contentment – then there’s nothing else in life that you need. But if you feel the grass could be greener, you can proactively create a life you love. After all, contentment is a choice.

At Retreat in the Pines, we offer weekend retreats so you can step away from the stresses of  your life – perhaps even outside your comfort zone – to discover santosha while immersed in our safe and sacred retreat space. View our upcoming retreats here.

Discovering contentment doesn’t need to be a dramatic shift in your life. Making small adjustments in your day-to-day routine will allow you to find change and the greater satisfaction you’re seeking.

How to Cultivate Santosha in Your Life

• Yes is the word. How often is “No!” your first reaction to being asked to do something outside your comfort zone? This may be especially true in instances where you have the opportunity to try something new. Remember growth and comfort can’t coexist. Making the shift in attitude from “I can’t” to “I will and I can” is one step toward putting the spark back into your life.
• Find people who inspire you. Research says that you are the average of your five closest friends. For everything from voting behavior to likelihood of divorce, we’re separated from life events a mere four degrees from the people we hold closest to our hearts. What does that mean for your everyday life? Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and whose values you align with or would like to. Their habits may start to creep into your consciousness and behavior, ultimately helping you move torward a sense of contentment with yourself.
• Lean into discomfort. In Baz Luhrmann’s “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen),” one piece of advice he offers is to do one thing every day that scares you. It’s when we lean into uncomfortable situations, make it through them, learn, and survive that we begin to expand the horizons of our personal growth. This could involve little things, like trying an exotic food you’ve shied away from, or something bigger like trying yoga for the first time or downloading an online dating app.

Contentment is in the eye of the beholder. And while it is important to take a moment to reflect on the perspective you have on your circumstances and try to shift that to the positive, it’s equally important to take action that will create a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in your day-to-day life.

When you step out of your comfort zone at one of our retreats, you’ll discover yoga, wine and laughter with your tribe! Beginners and solo travelers welcome. Perfect place to get your groove back. Two hours from Dallas. $429 includes all the relaxation and fun you can handle.

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This blog is intended to provide helpful suggestions for self care and overall well-being. I am not a mental health professional. If you’re struggling I encourage you to seek the help of a professional. Find a Mental Health Professional | National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988