When I taught public yoga classes, one of my favorite things to talk about in class was the concept of “Ahimsa†– or “non-harmingâ€.
In Sanskrit, Ahimsa literally means non-violence. And while at surface value it’s obvious to understand you shouldn’t be violent to or harm others, I like to focus more on the question: where are you harming yourself?
What does self-harm look like?
Self-harm can show up in a variety of subtle, sneaky ways. Self-sabotage, ignoring your intuition, telling yourself: “I’ll never succeed†or “I’m not good enoughâ€â€¦..to pursue, do or create (fill in your heart’s desire here).
Self-harm can look like staying in a toxic, codependent or addictive relationship, staying in an unhealthy work environment out of the fear-based belief you won’t be able to find anything else.
Self-harm can look like constantly criticizing yourself or holding yourself up to unattainable, perfectionist standards.
Self-harm can look like perpetually staying in your comfort zone because you believe you’re not worthy of achieving all of your beautiful, wildly exciting dreams.
Heads up!
Tune in for a special challenge to try this week – to help you stay break free from harming YOURSELF so you can (finally) create the life you love 🙂