In the event that one is already succumbing to the old adage that “it takes nine days before most of our newly formed resolutions are broken” Swami Satyadharma offers us a path to forming a daily yoga practice in the text below.

Sadhana -which is a regular and consistent yoga practice – transforms us and develops our subtle awareness. It is a continual, ongoing process that re-connects us with ourselves and therefore to peace, inspiration and self knowledge. A balanced personal practice is the gateway to yoga.

We can use the analogy that our practice is like a new baby – it requires time (regular), space (dedicated and lovingly prepared) and care to nurture it.  Once we make this our priority, we make the lifestyle changes required to accommodate our new practice just as we would make lifestyle changes to care for a new baby.

Create a space for yoga practice – a spiritual space where you could place objects such as flowers, candles, yantra’s, photos, crystals, cushions etc that you are spiritually attracted to. Essentially creating a space for peace.

What are the practices for a higher Sadhana?  Ideally practicing in the early morning between 4am – 6am is the optimal time for Sadhana, and the practice itself is very simple and can be done for a minimum of 1/2 hour.

1. Surya Namaskar – 3 – 6 rounds. 3 slow, 3 rounds a little faster with breath awareness.
2.  Savasana 2 – 3 minutes.
3. Select 2 – 3 asanas that are balanced and flow easily without too much effort. Choose postures that you love to do. Be sure to include a forward bend, back bend, lateral stretch and twist
4. Savasana 2 – 3 minutes.
5. Breath awareness. For example Nadi Shodana, Kapalbharti or Bhastrika to invigorate. Followed by a cooling breath such as Brahmari.
6. 5 minutes of Trataka / candle gazing or meditation
7. 10 minutes of Savasana once a day in the afternoon.
8. In the evening 10 minutes of meditation before bed. This can comprise of watching the breath in your abdomen, noticing the heart / breath space and being aware of the feelings that may arise, and breathing through the nose to eyebrow centre whilst all the time repeating Om on the inhalation and exhalation.

Try this for 40 days to create a practice habit.