Blog: The First Limb of Ashtanga Yoga, and the First Yama: Ahimsa!

Ahimsa -- or non-violence-- is the first of the 5 Yamas. 

Many yogis and yoginis are vegetarians due to the observance of Ahimsa. David Life and Sharon Gannon are two of the more outspoken ones; especially Sharon who wrote a book on the subject, Yoga and Vegetarianism. Now, you do not need to be a vegetarian to practice yoga. We start where we are, in all respects!  

Most westerners who begin yoga are not vegetarian, and many never become vegetarian. But many do, slowly, over time, due to the awareness developed through the practice of yoga regarding the health of their bodies, the planet and the violent treatment of the animals that we consume. A recent term I have heard used for those that are working their way towards a whole-food, plant-based diet is flexetarian; a "little" meat, now and then, but mostly vegetarian.

Not eating meat is also being kind (less violent), to our planet. In fact it has a profound effect on our planet. See John Robbin's, Diet for a New America.  (As old as it is current.) I don't think people were ready for it when it first came out. But I think we are ready now. John gave up the Baskin Robbin's fortune to be true to his soul. He clearly shows the negative effects of eating meat: on our bodies, the planet, and the animals that we consume. Watching this about once a year goes a long way towards inspiring me not to eat meat!

As we know, meat does not just appear in a neat and tidy little package in the grocery store. I know, we don't want to think about that because of how it appears there can be horrific. But we really must watch, because only with awareness can we really make a conscious choice. And as difficult as it may be I urge you to visit PETA's website  to see what actually happens, and the way animals suffer. But brace yourselves; plant your feet. It is difficult to watch and not for young children or the faint of heart.

Another great documentary that happens to be current is, Forks over Knives. A lot of new information; and a lot of erudition! It is about the findings of a Professor of Nutritional Biology, T. Colin Campbell and an American Physician, Caldwell Esselstyn, whose paths naturally crossed along with their interests. It is very informative, busts a lot of myths, and demonstrates the positive findings  a whole-food, plant-based diet has on our health. PETA also has a starter kit and a 30 day pledge for anyone who is would like to give vegetarianism a try. They offer support and lots of information. I know, it's hard to think about becoming vegetarian if you are used to eating meat!  And you may not even want to. That's okay!  It's just like getting into Uth Pluthi, (see photo) difficult!  

So whether it is a yoga asana (pose) or for-going cruelty to animals for the sake of Ahimsa and health, remember... change takes time. We can, and need, to go slowly or else we risk quitting! Whether it is a yoga posture that slowly, surprisingly, happens one day, seemingly without effort, or making major shifts in how we eat, live and think, gradually over time. It is like planting a little seed. At first you can't see it. But the next time more information is gathered, it is like a little water being poured on that seed; the next time, a little more, and with enough time and water, that seed will begin to sprout, and grow.  And we will see it!  

With the practice of yoga, we also, will begin to sprout and grow... and the world will be covered with LOTS of flowers (and plant-based foods)!  And there will be peace on earth... well, at least a little more.  (Remember, baby steps...)

Namaste. Blessings, Bella