What is Ahimsa in yoga?

The word ahimsa in Sanskrit comes from the conjugation of ‘a’ meaning not and ‘himsa’ meaning killing or violence.

Ahimsa, therefore, is the principle of causing no harm. It is the approach of non-violence and not causing any harm to any living being, including ourselves, in thought, word, and action. It asks us to be kind, peaceful, and compassionate.

We can be violent in many ways without even realizing it. Let us see how we can adopt ahimsa in our actions, words, and thoughts.

Ahimsa as non-violence in action

The most obvious thing here is not physically harming another being. So, no hitting or killing.

Those on the path of yoga often adopt vegetarianism or veganism so as not to participate in the killing of another living being.

The less obvious way we cause harm is the way we treat ourselves, and sometimes even others.

When we push ourselves in an asana that causes pain, when we force someone to do what they would rather not, when we feed our body and mind with things that are unhealthy, we are causing harm.  

Ahimsa as non-violence in words

Non-violent speech means not using words that can hurt, slander, or demean another person. It includes refraining from gossip and not talking ill of a person who is not present in that conversation.

However, non-violent speech does not mean one needs to lie. Our words can be kind while being true.

We sometimes use negative words when we talk about ourselves. Statements like, ‘I can never do anything right’ or ‘I am horrible at making plans’ might seem innocuous, but when repeated enough times, can make us really feel that way about ourselves.

We can acknowledge areas where we can do better, but that can be done without degrading the self.

Ahimsa as non-violence in thoughts

There is much virtue in non-violent thoughts. Thoughts are powerful. They are pervasive, intrusive, and difficult to control. That makes working on our thoughts the most difficult as well as the most important.

Non-violence in thoughts is not wishing harm to anyone. Forgiveness becomes important if we really want to practice ahimsa. When we can wish well for those who have hurt us, we are advancing on the path of ahimsa.

Ahimsa includes recognizing and eliminating negative thoughts about the self. Our limiting beliefs, our past failures and disappointments, our mistakes and limitations, can make us think of ourselves as ‘I am worthless’ or ‘I don’t deserve love in my life’. We need to treat ourselves with compassion and love.

How to practice ahimsa in daily life

Reflection is a great place to start. At the end of each day, recall the events as they happened like you are a witness, without attaching yourself to any feelings or getting caught up in the story.

Then think about how you responded. Bring awareness to your thoughts, words, and actions. This not only helps with day to day situations where we could practice ahimsa, but it also reveals our deep-rooted tendencies.

Practicing moderation or emotional regulation is another way to adopt ahimsa. Rather than thinking, speaking, and acting in extremes, try to stay balanced. Extremes, both good and bad, can cause mental disturbances, which can impede our practice of ahimsa.

At all times believe that you are a manifestation of the universe. You are beautiful, complete, and enough. It is only when you love yourself can you love others.

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