Yoga, Bible, Life Connection

Within yoga there are 8 limbs. The first limb is called Yama meaning ethical guidelines to live by. Within Yama there are categories the first being Ahimsa. Ahimsa means non-violence. The practice of non-violence does not only mean not participating in nonviolent acts and being passive but means engaging in positive acts which reduce violence. To participate in a positive way people must be able to self-reflect.  Often when someone confronts another person about a problem the recipient becomes defensive begins interrupting and listing all the reasons why the accusation is incorrect. The ego takes over and the recipient does not listen long enough to evaluate understand respond appropriately to the situation

In the Bible Christ disciples are with him at the last supper when Christ tells them one of them is going to betray him. This is a very accusatory statement. Instead of the disciples getting offended and telling Jesus all the reasons they are positive they will not betray him and telling him they are certain he is wrong if he thinks it is them that are the betrayer, they respond with a question “Lord is it I?” They opened a door of communication willing to listen understand. They understood people make mistakes and did not count themselves out as an individual who is above making mistakes and they did not immediately become offended and defensive.

The more time and effort you put into making yourself a better person the more you gain confidence in yourself while simultaneously learning there is always room for improvement to reach limitless potential. When this attitude becomes part of who you are you begin to have more understanding for others around you. A good barometer to see how you are doing is to notice how you are viewing other because this is a reflection of how you are viewing and judging yourself. As you adapt this way of life and continue to practice self-reflection you will be able to follow the example of the apostles and when someone makes a statement instead of becoming offended you will be able to say Is it I. This way of thinking allows you to fill your heart with understanding, keep open gates of communication, all the while remaining nonviolent, living the principle of Ahimsa.