Yoga Guidelines and Ahimsa, or Non-violence

Yoga can help guide us in using our energy to grow and live in harmony and peace.  The guidelines are called the Yamas, which relate largely to our relationships, and the Niyamas, recommendations on how to evolve into a wise human being.  I would like to just introduce the most fundamental Yama today: ahimsa, non-violence.  This is much more than the injunction to avoid killing.  Think of all the opportunities to show compassion that we miss.  What about starting at home with our very self?  We don’t have to set out for distant lands in order to contribute.  We are all part of a whole picture, so caring for and accepting ourselves, shadow and all, will give us greater understanding of others and more sensitivity for the rest of the world.  What about accepting our limitations or struggles with the body, whether with health or practicing the poses themselves?  When you hear yourself say something like, “how stupid of me,” or “I always mess things up,” pause and be kind.  Your inner world will be reflected out into world around you, bringing peace and non-violence.