The Practice of Ahimsa: 15 Acts of Kindness

Last month at Kids Yoga Stories, I focused on Ahimsa (~Kindness). Ahimsa is one of the behavioral disciplines (Yamas) along the path of yoga. Ahimsa can be translated as “Non-Violence”, or Kindness to ourselves, others, and the environment.

Practice Ahimsa – 15 ways that you can make the world a better place through your acts of kindness:

Be Kind to Yourself

Make space in your life for “me” time.
Be accepting and forgiving of yourself. Every day.
Be grateful for being you. Who you are and who you are not.
Surround yourself with positive people. Smile lots.
Live a healthy lifestyle. Eat well and exercise. Fill your body with goodness. Treat yourself to a Spa date.

Be Kind to Others

Do something for another person without expecting anything in return. Practice selfless acts for others.
Do unto others as you would have done unto you.
Practice being kind to someone who you don’t have a natural affinity with.
Step into someone else’s shoes. Send them ‘Loving Kindness’.
Send Thank You cards, often.

Be Kind to Animals and the Environment

Pick a passion and commit to making a difference. A little bit every week. For example, Animal Rescue, No Plastic, Veganism, Tree Planting, Recycling, Garbage Collection, or Environmental Education.
Commit to environmentally-friendly practices. Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Walk more. Use less (or no) plastic. Eat whole foods. Turn lights off. Reduce your water use.
Be aware of your impact on earth. Tread lightly. Recognize that we are visitors to this planet.
Read, research, discuss, debate, or engage in topics of the environment. Then put into Action. Get involved in a way that works. Stretch yourself. Go outside of your comfort zone, for a higher purpose.
Visit and explore National Parks. “Leave No Trace”. Share your photos and experiences with others.

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