At the end (and beginning) of every year, many people take the time to think about their goals they wish to accomplish in the upcoming future. We think about our traits, or habits, we wish to change, from the past. In Yoga, the habits we create and reinforce are referred to as samskaras, which is a Sanskrit term for these repetitive patterns and thoughts. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika describes samskara as “mental impression stored in the subtle body and existing as an archetype in the brain.” (Muktibodhananda, pg. 701).

 We have the option, every single day, to make one small change towards our goals.

And with this option, we are constantly re-inventing our selves. Who we are, who we want to be, what we want to do, How ….etc. With daily mental practice of  mindfulness, we can address our goals and make clear actions towards obtaining them. You have been working on these previous goals the entire year, underneath the surface. It is due to your reflection throughout the year, that you have decided to either continue, halt, or change your habits.  Kino Yoga has a great article about Samskaras as well.

What you see on the outside, is a reflection of what is going on inside.

Another theory with samskaras is the the iceberg model (theory). Like an iceberg in the ocean, only 10% of it is showing above surface, the other 90% is submerged. This other 90% is what built up the iceberg to even show above water. It can be applied to thought processes, and even yoga. So you may see someone going into a full headstand, but not see the countless hours they spent practicing. Or maybe you see someone sit out a posture, unaware that they may be recovering from trauma.