There are words of power out there that can elicit a paradigm shift by their mere mentioning. Today I am sharing one that has left a profound impression on me. It comes from the Vedas, and is described as thus:
Sankalpa (Sanskrit: संकल्प) means an intention formed by the heart and mind — a solemn vow, determination, or will.
“Sankalpa” can be simplified to mean “resolution” or “vow” in which a statement guides along a particular embodiment of intention. For instance, “I am a grand part of divinity, I am the whole of existence” or “I cultivate and express the truth of who I actually am”.
Sankalpas can be both general or specific, but they are formed with an intention in mind. It is a technique that enables mindful thinking, where one can stop and center themselves. Re-aligning with their specific purpose in moments of distraction and uncertainty.
In the Vedas, Sankalpas were thought to be the most powerful force in the universe. It is the mind driven to creation and sustained by thought. For without thoughts and guiding principles; we would not be able to create anything of intricacy or meaning. We would live life in a type of managed chaos ruled over by whims and impulses.
In simpler terms, Sankalpas can be thought of as goal-setting, but it is more than that. It is also a vow, one not to be taken lightly, and a desire that is unassailable until realized. A promise that one aims to keep regardless of what distractions may present themselves, or what mistakes are made along the way.
Sankalpas are the means by which we channel our consciousness and powers of creation. It activates our bodies and strengthens resolve. It is spoken with certainty, and not easily led astray. It is willfull determination and a sacred declaration that honors your purpose, and should not be taken lightly or used for frivolous aims.
But how do results present themselves once we incorporate a Sankalpa into daily practice?
When we focus upon that what we most want to achieve, several things happen. Reality narrows itself down. This phenomenon could be characterized as confirmation bias, selective observation, law of attraction or as Timothy Leary once called, a “reality tunnel”.
Let’s look at what that describes.
A Reality Tunnel is the observation that we each experience “truth” in different ways. What one person sees, is not the “reality” or “truth” of another. This is conditioning that inhibits and allows for certain types of stimuli to enter our greater awareness. Narrow-mindedness is the unconscious result of an individual with “tunnel vision”, clouded by biases, neuroses, desires and ego. Sometimes the very thing we are looking for, can be right under our noses. This also applies to what we may consider to be important, allowing for behaviors and patterns to exist without furthering our growth.
When we employ the use of a Sankalpa, we then design a filter to place upon our subconsciousness which has the ability to “shift” reality. When we focus on love, prosperity, competence, responsibility, realizing our highest potential or having profound insights and experiences; we then allow for the act of creation to take place. Filtering out the superficial and highlighting opportunities to deliver us what we want, need and declare. Selecting the narrative we wish to live by.
The possibilities are many.
However, Sankalpas are only as effective as the power you give them.
They are fueled by will.
By intention.
And by faith.
It has been demonstrated that intention alone can shape and alter actions and behavior. They even affect the physical world around us. A Sankalpa steers us towards where we desire to go and provides the means to get there. Think of intention as putting fuel into your vehicle. A Sankalpa would be the type of car that you choose to drive. A tool to further your objectives with.
Want to be a millionaire? Design a Sankalpa.
Do you desire deeper and more meaningful relationships? Sankalpa.
Want to get better at your job? Try a Sankalpa, its free.
Examples of Sankalpas can be:
“I am patient.”
“I am wise.”
“I am loving.”
“I am cherished.”
“I am responsible.”
“I am free.”
“I am strong.”
“I am (insert adjective here)”
As you can see, a Sankalpa is a declaration, not a wish. As infinite and divine beings, we have the power of creation within us. We shouldn’t be wishing for things to happen. We make things happen. Consciously, or not.
Sankalpas do not require visualizing a certain outcome. They do not need to be repeated endlessly. They do not contradict or conflict with personal beliefs or views. They are a label you apply onto yourself, like a name tag, that states who you are and what you intend to achieve.
“I am creative and filled with imagination. My art is deeply appreciated.”
“I am blessed with great wealth and prosperity. I help improve my life and the lives of others around me.”
“I am able to heal the hearts and minds of those in need. With compassion, grace and humility.”
It is wise to carry only one Sankulpa at a time. This way your attention remains undivided as you live out your greatest expression. Mastery can allow for additional Sankulpas to be incorporated. Results can sometimes be immediate.
Allow whatever Sankulpa you decide upon, to rule over the day. Try letting the words permeate into the core of your being, so that you don’t have to think and engage. Instead, feel those words as the most perfect expression of truth there is. This is not re-training your mind or overcoming limitations, NLP, manifesting or positive affirmation. This is declaring. This is choosing, reminding, and making an effort to live your Truth from the heart.
You create your own reality tunnel. You create reality, period.
Select the Sankulpa that feels most right to you. What puts fire in your belly? What would you most like to achieve or become or express or experience?
The greatest version of who you are?
There’s a Sankulpa for that.
But what if we aren’t sure what our greatest Truth is supposed to be?
Take time out of your day to find a peaceful place where you will be left undisturbed. Sit down with your back straight, cross the legs and place both palms over your thighs. Inhale deeply through the nose and exhale out the mouth as gently as you can. Aim for consistency.
A few minutes of this will help clear out the mind. The stress of the day, the distractions, the worries, and a deeper connection to spirit will be made.
Unlike passive meditation and detachment, you will be working towards a specific outcome. Keep focused on your goal, but don’t apply pressure or become frustrated.
Cross hands so that your right palm lays upon the left thigh, and the left hand rests on the right. Form what is called a “mudra” using the thumb and forefinger of your left hand to resemble an “okay” gesture. Allow the back of this hand to rest upon the leg. This has the effect of activating both the left and right side of your brain in order to produce a non-dualistic state of being. This then allows for greater receptivity and makes it easier to imprint thoughts onto the subconscious.
Once you feel comfortable, ask the questions below or make up your own.
“What do I want to become?”
“What is the most important thing in the world?”
“What is it that I can reasonably achieve?”
“What do I want my legacy to look like?”
Remain still, listen attentively, and work out whatever thoughts enter your mind. Examine them, poke at them, move them around and see what resonates most.
Eventually, a Sankulpa will manifest itself. A declaration that feels true and without contradiction.
“I am loyal to those I value.”
“I am polite and respectful of others.”
“I am healthy and alive.”
“I am capable of great love.”
“My intelligence is useful and appreciated.”
Something will appear to inform what your greatest truth or value is. Once it is discovered, the next step is to marry it to a goal that honors what the core of your being treasures most.
That will be your Sankulpa.
This declaration can produce miracles in life. Everything becomes purposeful, dynamic and textured. The power you’ve awakened inwardly, will be reflected upon the physical world in various means and ways. Opportunities will arrive, synchronicities will occur and interesting challenges will be presented and overcome.
The only catch is that a Sankulpa demands absolute obedience and treated with reverence for the profound statement that it is.
Who you are and what you desire, are to be taken with great seriousness.
A more detailed and in-depth description of Sankulpas can be found here.
Godspeed.
