Week One of Our February Yoga Theme: Ahimsa — A Month of Compassion
Introduction
Ahimsa, often translated as non-harming, is one of the foundational principles of yoga philosophy. While it’s easy to think of ahimsa as something we practice outwardly—toward others, animals, or the world—it begins much closer to home.
Week One of our February theme invites us to turn inward and explore ahimsa toward ourselves. This is where compassion takes root. This is where true softness and sustainable strength are born.
What Does Ahimsa Toward Ourselves Mean?
Practicing ahimsa with ourselves means noticing the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways we cause harm internally:
- Harsh self-talk
- Pushing past pain or exhaustion
- Ignoring emotional needs
- Judging our bodies, choices, or perceived shortcomings
Self-directed violence is often quiet and normalized—but it deeply shapes how we move through the world.
Ahimsa toward ourselves is not indulgence or avoidance. It is honest care. It is listening. It is choosing kindness without force.
On the Mat: Practicing Self-Compassion in Yoga
This week’s yoga practices emphasize:
- Slower pacing and intentional transitions
- Permission to rest, modify, or pause
- Awareness of internal dialogue during movement
- Choosing sensation over performance
Rather than asking, “How far can I go?” we gently ask, “What would feel kind right now?”
This approach builds trust with the body and nervous system—something especially important during times of stress, healing, or uncertainty.
Off the Mat: Ahimsa in Daily Life
You may notice this week’s theme showing up beyond your yoga practice. Some gentle reflections to explore:
- How do I speak to myself when things feel hard?
- Where might I be pushing when listening would serve me better?
- What would change if I treated myself the way I treat someone I love?
Small acts of self-kindness—resting without guilt, setting gentle boundaries, offering yourself patience—are powerful expressions of ahimsa.
A Simple Week One Practice
Self-Compassion Pause
Once a day, pause for three slow breaths.
- Place one hand on your heart, one on your belly.
- Inhale: I am listening.
- Exhale: I choose kindness.
Let this be enough.
Essential Oil Support (Optional)
Rose or Bergamot — both oils gently support the heart and emotional body, making them especially aligned with self-compassion.
- Rose invites tenderness, self-love, and emotional healing. It reminds us that softness is strength.
- Bergamot offers lightness and encouragement, helping ease self-judgment and lift heavy inner dialogue.
Diffuse during practice or apply (diluted) over the heart space or wrists as a gentle reminder to meet yourself with kindness.
Closing Reflection
Ahimsa does not ask us to be perfect. It asks us to be present.
As we begin this month together, may we remember that compassion practiced inwardly ripples outward—softening our edges, deepening our resilience, and shaping how we meet the world.
This is where the practice begins.
Be sure to grab my book 52 Weeks of Wisdom and Wellness for more mindfulness practices.