A key term for yogis.  Ahimsa is the sanskrit word for non-violence. The obvious definition for non-violence is to do no physical harm onto others. However, ahimsa goes way beyond the obvious.

Ahimsa is the first yama listed in the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali. The yamas (along with the niyamas) are important codes of morality found within yoga’s primary branch of its eight-limb system.

It’s important to recognize that when you practice ahimsa, you are pledging to do no harm in deed, word or thought.

And, another crucial point is that you apply this principle to yourself as well as to others. When practicing self non-harming, you should not only take care when crossing the street, but strive to live as healthy as possible.

In general, you should refrain from actions, words and thoughts that are destructive to your well-being and to the well-being of those around you.