Ahimsa & Body Image

In a world constantly telling us how we should look, it can be difficult to separate our sense of worth from our body image. We are bombarded with images and messages that glorify a narrow ideal of beauty, which often leaves us feeling inadequate or critical of ourselves. But yoga offers a way out of this cycle. Rather than focusing on what our bodies look like, yoga invites us to experience our bodies in a completely different way: as vessels of wisdom, strength, and transformation.

Through yoga, we begin to shift our attention from the external—the shape, size, or perceived imperfections of our bodies—to the internal. By embracing the teachings of yoga, we can cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves, moving beyond the surface to discover what it truly means to feel whole, empowered, and at peace in our bodies.

Ahimsa: Practicing Non-Violence Toward Yourself
One of the foundational principles of yoga is Ahimsa, or non-violence. While this teaching traditionally speaks to how we treat others, it also applies to how we treat ourselves. In a world that often encourages us to criticize and judge our bodies, Ahimsa asks us to cultivate compassion and kindness instead. It invites us to stop the inner battle and treat our bodies with the care and respect they deserve.

When we approach our practice with Ahimsa, we give ourselves permission to move through each pose without judgment or expectation. Rather than striving for a perfect aesthetic, we honor the body as it is today—capable, resilient, and worthy of love.

Practice: As you step onto your mat, set an intention to practice with kindness. Notice any critical thoughts that arise about your body and gently let them go. Instead, focus on how your body feels and how you can support it with breath and movement. Let go of the idea of perfection and embrace the beauty of simply being present.

~Lindsay

Artwork found on Pinterest