There are nine core practice intentions at the heart of ITP that act as guiding principles in your transformative journey of mind, body, heart and soul.
The original eight ITP Core Practice Intentions were designed for those with busy lives, and developed based on the experiences of the practitioners in the first two cycles of ITP in 1992 and 1993. ITP co-founders George Leonard and Michael Murphy believed that when your practice is integrated into your job, family life and day-to-day activities, it can significantly impact you and the larger community.
The ninth ITP Core Practice Intention was added in 2007, to ensure we’re not only working toward positive change within ourselves, but the world as a whole.
Each of these ITP Core Practice Intentions is meant to blend together and become a part of your daily life, informing and adding meaning to the growth you’re seeking. These are intentions, and you are your own authority on what is best for your ongoing growth. No special equipment or physical requirements are needed to begin incorporating these guidelines into your daily practice.
The list below forms the building blocks of ITP:
I take responsibility for my practice and for all transformations of my body and being that flow from it. While respecting my teachers and fellow practitioners, I understand that in designing and engaging in my practice I am my own authority.
I join in community in vision and practice. I may also choose to practice on my own, knowing that my practice supports and is supported by the larger ITP community.
I engage in moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise for thirty minutes a day or in increments of my own choosing, with a goal of three hours weekly. Three sessions of strength training a week are also recommended.
I am conscious of everything I eat and drink.
I develop my intellectual powers through reading, writing, and discussion. With curiosity and love of life-long learning, I integrate cognitive understanding into my practice.
I open my heart to others by staying current in expressing my feelings to those close to me and take care of my emotional needs in appropriate and healthy ways, seeking counsel when needed.
I create up to three personal affirmations for each six- to twelve-month period, related to significant positive change within. I also include in my practice the universal ITP affirmation: “My entire being is balanced, vital, and healthy.” I actively engage in realizing these affirmations.
I practice the ITP Kata or a comparable mind/body practice five times per week or as often as possible. As part of my practice, I include progressive relaxation, affirmations and meditation. Additional periods of meditation during the day are recommended.
I look for ways to be of service, supporting the evolution of humankind towards a more balanced, peaceful, and joyful condition. I contribute in whatever way I can to the wellbeing of our planet and all of life.
Download and print a pdf version of the ITP Core Practice Intentions.
Learn more about the core components of ITP to put your personal practice into action.
“Mastery isn’t reserved for the super talented. It’s available to anyone who is willing to get on the path and stay on it -- regardless of age, sex or previous experience.”