As we transition from the depths of winter towards spring, life begins to awaken in new and sometimes subtle ways. It’s a perfect season for setting our intentions for the new year and reconnecting with the first of the yamas, the ethical principles of yoga: ahimsa.
Ahimsa means non-violence, but it goes far beyond simply not using physical force.
“Nonviolence means an ocean of compassion. It means shedding from us every trace of ill will for others. It does not mean abjectness or timidity, or fleeing in fear. It means, on the contrary, firmness of mind and courage, a resolute spirit.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Ahimsa reminds you to consider your actions, words, and even your thoughts from the place of non-harming. The practice encourages you to cultivate kindness, compassion, and acceptance for all beings, including yourself, realizing your shared inner essence.
This Kundalini yoga meditation for compassion works at a subtle level. It combines squaring your breath with a mental mantra. For the breath, you’ll sniff in four equal parts, hold for the same four count, exhale out in four equal parts, and hold the breath out for the four count. The mantra of sa-ta-na-ma is thought — not spoken aloud — with each syllable guiding your breath reminding you of the cycle of life.
Sa – Infinity
Ta – Life/Existence
Na – Transformation/Death
Ma – Rebirth
Try this meditation to give you the courage and resolution to live with ahimsa. Pair it after this season’s Sadhana practice or try it on its own.
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