Speaking the Truth (in a kind way)
In this post, we are going to look at the first two yamas, Ahimsa and Satya. I don’t know about you but I can say some really awful things to myself. Things that I would never say to a friend or even an enemy for that matter. While everything I say to myself isn’t truthful, in many ways there is an element of truth to it. However, I am still choosing to say it in a harmful way that affects how I see myself and ultimately how I show up in the world.
As I continue to learn more about the yamas and see how they show up in my life, I’m noticing the connection between Ahimsa (nonviolence) and Satya (truthfulness). We will explore that more later in this post, but first I want to highlight a few points about each one individually.
Ahimsa, or nonviolence is about so much more than just not doing harm. Although that is ultimately how it is measured. There is a simplicity to it, but with many subtle causes. Adele writes, “When we feel hurried, afraid, powerless, out of balance, and harsh with ourselves, we may find ourselves speaking words of unkindness or even exploding with a violent outburst.” Addressing these various causes is a great place to start in noticing our own patterns of violence and unkindness.
Satya, or truthfulness goes beyond our words. It encompasses our feelings, actions, and values. It speaks to our integrity. Adele phrases it as being “real rather than nice” in how we express ourselves, make decisions, and interact with others. However, don’t forget that at the base of truthfulness is nonviolence and that informs how you deliver the truth with yourself and others.
Between the two, nonviolence always takes precedence over truthfulness. However, I’ve noticed for me nonviolence is usually the first one to go out the window. Like I mentioned earlier, I can say some really hurtful things about myself. While there may be some truth to it, the harshness that it travels with causes me to shut down and want to hide. If I choose to be honest with myself about my mistakes and shortcomings in a kind way, then I can look at them from a place of compassion and curiosity rather than a place of judgment or fear. Have you ever heard the saying, “You can catch more flies with honey”? I’m not suggesting your sugar coat the truth with yourself or anyone else. But maybe there is a way to soften a bit and make it easier to digest.
So how do we flip the script? Here is a simple creative practice that we used in class.
On a sheet of paper, write down those hurtful things you say to yourself. You can list two or three or as many as it feels right.
Take a moment to read through what you wrote. Can you find a small element of truth within it or maybe an underlying fear?
Think of how you can rewrite a statement that allows you to see the truth in a kinder way. Also, remember this doesn’t have to be something negative. Perhaps what you are telling yourself is really just a lie based on a made up story from your head. Write it in a positive way. You can choose one statement or as many as you like.
Use a new sheet of paper to create artwork using your statement as a focal point. I suggest using colors you love and make you feel alive.
Place your artwork somewhere you can see it and be reminded of your truth.
I also wanted to leave you with a short insert about each of these yamas from Embrace Yoga’s Roots by Susanna Barkataki. These would be great as an affirmation or for further exploring your relationship with that yama.
Ahimsa: I am nonviolent toward myself and have regard for all beings to transform suffering in myself and in the world.
Satya: I know words can create happiness or suffering so I use my words and my listening to inspire joy, confidence, and positivity.
Book Resources
The Yamas and the Niyama, by Deborah Adele
Embrace Yoga’s Roots, by Susanna Barkataki
Light on Life, by B.K.S. Iyengar