The importance of practicing Ahimsa in a turbulent world.

On 28 February 2026, I was as shocked as many of you to hear about the latest turn of events in the Middle East.

It's sadly becoming increasingly difficult to scroll through the news without feeling a tightening of the chest, a pang of anxiety, real fear or just pure helplessness.

I regularly stare at my TV screen and think: 'What the fudge is happening now? What's the point of any of this? Why so much hate in the world?".

And that's when I double down on the simple but powerful principle from yoga philosophy: ahimsa

Briefly, ahimsa, originating in ancient India, is the practice of non-violence, toward others but also toward ourselves.

Its meaning goes deeper than avoiding physical violence.

Roughly translated as 'do no harm', it's a mindset of compassion, patience, tolerance and understanding.

Toward others, ahimsa asks us to pause before reacting. When faced with anger, whether online or in person, take a breath. Respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.

Ahimsa is also small acts of compassion. Check in on a friend, offer a helping hand or simply listen because little gestures of kindness build a gentler world.

Toward yourself, ahimsa is about showing yourself compassion and protecting your heart whenever necessary.

When it all gets too much, I purposefully spend a couple of days not watching the news, as an act of self preservation. I can't always handle any more images of what I consider to be senseless destruction and killings.

We may not be able to change global events overnight, or at all, but we can certainly have influence over the energy we bring into our daily lives and the lives of the people we encounter.

I believe that practicing ahimsa is more important than ever and it begins within us.

When we cultivate inner calm and compassion, we contribute, in our own tiny way, to a more peaceful world.

Peace to all ✌️

With love...

Florence 💜

PS: Would you like to retreat with me in 2026?

Check out my upcoming retreats here 👇👇

Retreats 2026