Ahimsa is not an Ayurveda term, but one from the Buddhist tradition. The concept though is certainly apt in Ayurveda when thinking about how we treat our bodies. Ahimsa is non-violence. What doe sit mean to be violent to yourself? I have been thinking about this as I increase my activity. Can you exercise as a Westerner and still practice an Ayurvedic lifestyle? In Ayurveda, walks are encouraged as the activity helps with regulating digestive function. Yoga is recommended daily.
What is frowned on is the overindulgence or overuse of exercise contraindicated by your dosha. As an example, I am provisionally pitta type and competitive sports are not healthy for me psychologically. I get too competitive. The drive for perfection can lead to disordered behaviors regarding the body. So even though I am trying to get back into shape and strive to be active every day, I try to choose my activities in a non-violent way. I prefer biking, dance, ice skating, pilates and swimming - all activities that I can do alone or at least in a non-competitive environment. It is even more important to be gentle with myself because the negative self-talk from my weight gain can be pretty violent. Not only do I sometimes punish myself with exercise, but I berate myself at the same time. My goal every day is to bring a little more gentleness into my life and I must start with my body. Practicing Ahimsa towards myself is helping me become a more compassionate person with others. Well, I hope so at least.
Does this mean I won't run again? Probably not. I actually enjoy it when I can get motivated to do it. I just need to do it for pleasure and not for punishment. When I feel brave enough to start, I'll let you know.
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