01/01/2026
Thoughts on Ahimsa for the New Year…
Among Yoga’s code of ethics is the concept of Ahimsa. The literal translation is non-violence or non-harming. It means being non-harming to all living things and being actively compassionate and kind.
Most of us are able to cultivate these qualities toward others MOST of the time but remembering that we must apply Ahimsa toward ourselves is much more difficult. It is, however, arguably the most important way Ahimsa should be practiced.
When we show kindness and grace to ourselves it becomes easier to show kindness and grace to others.
Most New Year’s resolutions appear positive at quick glance but if we spent time examining them a little deeper, we might see that many of them are rooted in self-criticism, guilt, and shame; focusing on things we find inadequate about ourselves and desperately want to change. We may find ourselves fighting to keep up with the resolution we set, often beating ourselves up when we notice our resolve begin to wane within a month or two. People selling diets and gym memberships are banking on your insecurities and LOVE the month of January!
What if, instead of making a rigid resolution this year, you set an intention to focus on the practice of Ahimsa?
Instead of a resolution to stop eating junk food, resolve to ask yourself if you are practicing Ahimsa as each occasion to eat indulgent food arises. The answer will most likely vary depending on the situation.
Instead of resolving to be more social, resolve to ask yourself if each individual person or activity is in your best interest to devote time and energy to. Sometimes Ahimsa means saying NO.
Bringing awareness to your actions and asking yourself if you’re practicing Ahimsa is sustainable ALL YEAR!
Practicing Ahimsa allows room for grace and compassion even when you realize you have forgotten your practice.
Truly practicing Ahimsa requires practicing it even in times of perceived failure. If you shine a light on shame and guilt, even for a moment, and offer love and compassion to yourself instead, you will be sustaining your New Year resolution.
And if you are consistently asking yourself “Am I practicing non-harming of myself?” it will automatically lead to more behaviors and habits that promote physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
YOU ARE ENOUGH JUST AS YOU ARE💜
Put the past behind you, loosen your grip on the future, and merge gracefully into the present moment.
