This blog looks at the yogic fundamental principle of ahiṃsā translated as compassion or do no harm as a practice to cultivate both on and off the mat. Ahiṃsā is the first of the yamas (ethical principles) in the teachings of yoga philosophy.
Today, the world is in a state of unrest clearly on display for anyone who has access to electronics to view. There is an “us” versus “them” mentality brewing, which has been cooking for a LONG, LONG time. This mindset has reached a boiling point and caused many to be inspired to take action. The following looks at creating compassion as a daily practice to help cultivate change in our collective society.
Yoga is the science of the mind. Have you ever heard that before taking a yoga class? As an Austin Yoga Therapist, one of my main jobs is to work with both students and clients in supporting them to change a thought pattern that may be keeping them stuck. Getting “unstuck” requires mindfulness and a desire to create new patterns that support our health and well-being. I too get stuck and have to take a look at what and why. Often, the root of my issue/s can be tied back to one emotion…FEAR.
On the yoga mat, we can learn to move with awareness. Breath is more subtle than the physical body and big movements. When breath leads movement, over time, dysfunctional movement patterns have the potential to change in a direction that has more functionality. By that, I mean, not “good” or “bad”, but understanding that a movement pattern may have been creating harm in the body and when changed, pain can subside and tissues can begin to heal. If we are practicing YOGA, not just the movements of yoga, then we are working with ahiṃsā, traditionally defined as compassion or do no harm. We are learning to cultivate compassion for ourselves by not pushing, but moving with ease, love and acceptance. Transformation occurs with these ingredients versus pushing, controlling, and forcing. We are creating a gentle space for the body to allow breath to move freely and increase our vital life force. Beautiful concepts!
Off the yoga mat, we can take the messages we get from our practice and live from that awakening. One thing that I am learning as a “forever” student of yoga is that I need to deeply love myself. Along the way, I was taught to look at myself in the mirror every day and say “I love you!” as a practice. The first time I did this, it was uncomfortable but I gave the exercise a try. I believe I even cried. Over the years, this simple activity has been HUGE in creating transformation. Yes, my friends…Love Wins! And, we are worthy!
The “us” versus “them” mentality could be hurting us all. Quite the opposite of the concept of ahiṃsā. When you learn to love yourself, you can give a deeper level of compassion and understanding to our universal “brothers” and “sisters” of all backgrounds. We are more alike than we are different. Fear breeds division. Love creates inclusion. My teacher says, “You can’t give away what you don’t have!” He motivates me to understand ahiṃsā both on and off the mat. True change starts with our ability to practice love toward ourselves. I believe that…
Love wins! Love wins! Love wins!
Sutra teaching: II, 35: ahimsa pratisthayam tat sannidhau vaira tyagah
Translation meaning: When one is firmly rooted in compassion, all hostility ceases.