Ahimsa: Nonviolence as the Foremost Practice

Nicolai Bachman

Introduction to Yoga Sutras

Nicolai Bachman begins his exploration of yama, the first of the eight limbs of yoga, by looking at the first element of that limb, ahimsa, which can translate as “non-hurtfulness,” or non-violence. He offers non-violence as being the foremost practice of yoga, with all other yoga practices serving the same goal.

What are the forms of violence? How can we consciously reduce our own potential for harming others? How can we stop the cycle of self-abuse, including negative self-talk and criticism?

Join Nicolai for this short, but enlightening discussion.