
Ahimsa translates as non-violence. It is the practice of kindness and compassion to oneself and others. When we think of kindness in relation to how we treat ourselves and others we rarely think of our thoughts. However, many of us have a tendancy towards automatic negative thoughts. Our words or thoughts can impact how we feel about ourselves and other people. What you think is what you project.
Watch your thoughts, your thoughts become your words.
Watch your words your words become your actions,
Watch your actions your actions become your habits
Watch your habits, your habits become your character
Watch your character, your character becomes your destiny
~ proverb, author unknown.
In yoga we use a "Sankalpa" in our practice or a positive statement or resolution made with conviction, usually an "I am" statement. Such as "I am worthy", "I am calm". You let your inner voice be your guide and allow it to help you take a step towards the person you are. Honour what is true to you and what you need in this moment.
So we must be mindful of our thoughts. In order for me to be the best version of me I honour myself, respect myself and love myself. By doing so I feel more abundant and more energised.
Feeling more abundant allows you to give more generously to others. Be compassionate to yourself first. Treat yourself with loving kindness, then watch it spread to those around you.