Vow of Ahimsa | Covid-19
Description
Covid-19 is just one of many viral epidemics that have sculpted humanity over centuries, and the principles of yoga have been designed for our benefit in consideration for all dangers that befall human beings trapped in samsara. The threat of a deadly virus is nothing new, and the wisdom of yoga teaches us to behave in a manner consistent with our earthly safety, and that of our conscience and eternal self. The principles of the yamas and niyamas were outlined for us in the yoga sutras to ensure that earthly entanglements and threats would not preclude our pursuit of samadhi.
The ancient teachers of yoga, nearly all historically relevant teachers of Buddhism and Hinduism, the Saivite groups of ancient India, and the timeless Jains, all practiced ahimsa as a primary principle. From Gandhi to Thich Naht Hahn we have the luxury of observing quintessential examples of ahimsa during contemporary conflicts. Now, we have an opportunity to engage in ahimsa ourselves, directly, in a way that exemplifies the spirit of the discipline, and can have real and lasting effect on our lives and the lives of those around us.
“Do not injure, abuse, oppress, enslave, insult, torment, torture, or kill any creature or living being”.
-Mahavira
In Yoga Sutra 2:30, the first ethical observance of Ashtanga is clearly described, this is the first of the Yamas, and the first notable discipline of our way of life, is ahimsa (non-violence). While it may be simplest to observe ahimsa while alone, we must undertake a more thoughtful approach to the discipline while interacting, and potentially endangering others. Covid-19 is violent in its effect on the human body of those who contract it, as well as to the minds of nearly all people on earth at this time. It is unquestionable that allowing ourselves to become infected or to become carriers of Covid-19 is an act of violence. Because non-violences is the first precept of the philosophy that presides our school, we are required to observe ahimsa if we are to practice yoga at Ashtanga Yoga Bellingham during the Covid-19 epidemic.
Vow Observances
Avoid crowded places, and will intentionally avoid social gatherings that are not necessary for the development of peace and goodwill for my community.
Follow all state and federal guidelines regarding Covid-19 when I am inside and outside of the yoga shala.
Avoid unnecessary travel.
Conserve resources and accept discomfort if necessary.
Monitor my health, and if possible, take my temperature every day that I am to be in proximity to other people, and stay home if I feel less than perfectly healthy or if I am running a temperature above normal baseline.
Forgive as best I can all people who commit acts of violence.
AGREED TO:________________________________________________