Ahimsa Unveiled - Navigating the Thin Line between Compassion & Challenge
Have you ever found yourself struggling with a decision involving violence? I know I have. Whilst these days it is likely to be whether to squish a mossie, or to brush it outside many moons ago I found myself armed & in a uniform. As a 20-year-old field medic in the army reserve I was caught in the terrible conflict in which the IRA would place bombs in letterboxes & rubbish bins in perfectly public places. Terrorism. Violence at its worst. What placed me on a moonless night wandering around fields with a loaded weapon & the order to shoot to kill? A strong desire to serve & support my country; a friend telling me that we were going to be paid to learn medical skills…etc. Certainly NOT an intention to do harm. How naive of me.
Fortunately, I've since traded the weight of fatigues for the lightness of a yoga lifestyle in a mostly peaceful paradise.
Understanding Ahimsa:
Ahimsa, the first Yama in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, translates to non-violence. It extends beyond abstaining from physical harm, encompassing our thoughts, words, and actions. Ahimsa encourages the cultivation of kindness, compassion, and love for ourselves and others.
So, How should we use Ahimsa?
In our yoga practice, it is useful to keep Ahimsa in mind. It is a useful guide as we adapt postures, respecting our body's limitations and nurturing self-compassion. This principle prompts us to find equilibrium, pushing ourselves to open up to our genuine true potential without crossing the threshold of potential injury.
As we deepen our awareness through breath & poses in the controlled environment of a yoga class, we learn to extend that mindfulness into our daily lives, where distractions often attempt to pull us in various directions.
Alignment Based Iyengar yoga sets a few conditions to assist us avoid harm;
Multiple options for the same pose
The use of props to assist the body into classic poses
The understanding that when we "stack our bones our ligaments & tendons are more likely to be protected.
Questions to ask yourself
What is my bodies' limitation
Is there a way I can do that pose within the bounds of my limitations (ie: if there is genuine exhaustion can we keep the mind present, but do the poses lying down? If there is a back condition can we employ the legs or the pelvic floor & abdominals to support
Does the practice balance your life & days activities
In Memory and Hope:
Sadly, for my 16 friends who departed on that tragic day in the '80s due to a bomb, my gun was too late. I now earnestly hope that my message of peace is not too late.
Wishing you peace, love, and abundant joy on your yogic journey.
Namaste,
Community Spotlight: Ahimsa in Action:
We'd love to make this community about you....to showcase stories from our yoga community members who've embraced Ahimsa uniquely. From acts of kindness to environmental initiatives, these stories inspire us to embody yogic principles on and off the mat. If you have a story to share, we'd love to feature it in upcoming newsletters!
Email us: hello@cabaritabeachyoga.com
Events: Retreat 3rd Feb 2024: Mending the Mind
In Memory and Hope:
Sadly, for my 16 friends who departed on that tragic day in the '80s due to a bomb, my gun was too late. I now earnestly hope that my message of peace is not too late.
Wishing you peace, love, and abundant joy on your yogic journey.
Namaste,
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Disclaimer: This blog provides informative content, not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your wellness routine, especially if you have underlying health concerns.
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