Ahimsa is most commonly defined as “nonviolence.” It is directly translated from Sanskrit as “absence of injury.” This ancient concept comes from the ancient Indian manuscripts, the Vedas, that date back to 1900 BCE. It is also a foundational principle of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
In practice, ahimsa falls under one of the eight limbs of classical yoga. Ahimsa falls under the first branch, yama. Yama is known for cleansing the mind, body and spirit. Allowing a more conscious and liberated life.
Throughout history, we have seen leaders take a peaceful, nonviolent approach when it comes to politics. But, what if we implemented it into our everyday lives? According to Gandhi, “Ahimsa is the attribute of the soul, and therefore, to be practiced by everybody in all the affairs of life.”
What Does It Mean to Practice Ahimsa?
Although there are different ways you can interpret ahimsa, in simplest terms, it is to not inflict harm on any living being. Such respect should be extended to all living things, in addition, to ourselves. For instance, catching and releasing the bug that somehow got in your house, buying pasture-raised meat or passing the slow car ahead of you instead of tailgating.
The Sadhu and Snake
In the Vedas, ahimsa is taught with the story of the Sadhu and the snake. In this story, a sadhu, a monk, notices a snake terrorizing local villagers. The monk then proceeds to teach the snake ahimsa. A year later, the sadhu notices that the snake is thin, scared and dying. The villagers noticed his weakness and began to taunt him and prevent him from finding food. The sadhu then told the snake that although ahimsa means non-violence, it should not stop you from protecting and standing up for yourself.
Ahimsa Within
First, don’t chastise yourself for not being able to do a specific yoga move. Or when you look in the mirror, you don’t pick on yourself. Be kind to yourself when you make a mistake. Ahimsa allows us to evaluate both our actions toward others, but also our actions toward ourselves.
But being compassionate is not all there is. Such a concept is to be in harmony with your internal and external states. If something were to bother you, instead of feeling frustrated or angry, focus on a positive. Learn to forgive people that hurt you. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Don’t hold onto things.
This may sound hard, but acknowledging these behaviors is an excellent start.
When it comes to others, make an effort to give back. Recycle, eat local food and be conscious of your treatment of others.
Self-love is not a new thing, and it is never selfish. Every kind thing you do for yourself will only extend that energy outwards. VALLEY believes that the most important thing should be yourself.
Tweet us @VALLEYmag and let us know if you practice ahimsa.
