Finding Contentment in the Present: Mindfulness & the Practice of Santosha
- Charlene Drummond
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
In our fast-paced world, where we are constantly planning, striving, and seeking the next thing, it’s easy to lose sight of the richness of the present moment. Many of us spend our days either dwelling on the past or anticipating the future, often missing the simple beauty that exists right now. This is where the practice of mindfulness comes in - a practice of presence, awareness, and deep appreciation for the here and now.
But what if mindfulness wasn’t just about being present? What if it was also about being content with the present moment, exactly as it is? In yoga philosophy, this is the practice of Santosha, one of the Niyamas (ethical observances) from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Santosha is often translated as “contentment,” but it is more than simply being happy - it is the ability to find peace and acceptance within ourselves, no matter the external circumstances.
How Mindfulness and Santosha Work Together
Mindfulness invites us to witness each moment as it unfolds, without judgment. When we pair this with Santosha, we cultivate the ability to not only be present but to be at peace with whatever that present moment holds. It teaches us to release resistance, let go of the “shoulds” and “what ifs,” and instead embrace what is.
For example, when we step onto the mat for yoga, we might notice tension in our body or a wandering mind. A mindfulness practice allows us to observe these sensations and thoughts without labeling them as “good” or “bad.” Santosha then encourages us to be okay with them - to practice acceptance rather than wishing things were different. This shift in mindset can transform our relationship with ourselves and the world around us.
Ways to Cultivate Mindfulness and Santosha in Daily Life
Bringing these practices off the mat and into everyday life is where the real transformation happens. Here are a few ways to embrace mindfulness and Santosha beyond your yoga practice:
1. Start the Day with Gratitude
Before reaching for your phone or jumping into your to-do list, take a moment each morning to acknowledge something you’re grateful for. This could be as simple as the warmth of your bed, the sound of birds outside, or the breath moving through your body.
2. Anchor Yourself in the Present Moment
Throughout the day, practice pausing to check in with your breath and your surroundings. Ask yourself:
What do I see?
What do I hear?
What do I feel in my body?
This simple mindfulness exercise helps ground you in the present rather than getting lost in thoughts about the past or future.
3. Release the Need for Perfection
Santosha reminds us that contentment isn’t about having a “perfect” life but about embracing life as it is. Notice when your mind slips into comparison - whether with others or with an idealised version of yourself - and gently remind yourself that you are already enough.
4. Find Joy in Small Moments
Contentment is often found in the simplest of things - a deep inhale, a sip of warm tea, a shared smile. Challenge yourself to notice and appreciate these fleeting moments of joy.
5. Let Go of Control and Trust the Flow
A big part of contentment comes from accepting that we can’t control everything. The next time something doesn’t go as planned, take a deep breath and remind yourself: This too is part of the journey.
Bringing it Back to the Mat
As you step onto your mat for your next practice, set the intention to be both mindful and content with whatever arises. Instead of focusing on achieving the “perfect” pose, focus on how it feels. Instead of pushing through discomfort, allow yourself to soften into acceptance.
By weaving Santosha into your mindfulness practice, you’ll begin to cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace - not just during yoga, but in every aspect of life. Because true contentment isn’t something we find later - it’s something we create now.
How do you practice contentment in your daily life? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Namaste,
Charlene x
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