Moose Practice Ahimsa

I have always been fascinated with Moose. I was fortunate to see a few of them feeding in the water during my hike on Mt. Katahdin in Maine last week. As I often do, I wanted to find a way to weave the teachings of yoga into my experiences in life and especially today on this magnificent mountain. Moose happen to be one of my favorite animals! I sat on the rock and observed their beauty and strength and I realized there was something I could share with you regarding our last months teachings on the YAMAS.

Moose are the largest members of the deer family, with the biggest moose as high as seven feet at the shoulders. They can weigh over 1300 pounds, the males with broad, palm-like antlers up to six feet across can weigh 90 pounds! Despite their size and strength, moose tend to act very kindly toward their environment. They do not eat meat or fish. Moose eat all sorts of plant matter. In the summer, moose wade and swim through marshes and lakes, eating water plants. They also eat the tender shoots such as birches, willow, or poplar. In the winter, they will feed near the edges of forests, eating plant material such as bark or branches.

Moose practice AHIMSA and treat other animals and their surroundings with respect and care. They do not attack other creatures unless they or their offspring are in danger. They would prefer to avoid hurting others if possible. Moose shed their antlers before the winter each year and grow them back in the spring. One of the reasons they shed them is because starting over would allow the moose to expand not only in length, but also in broadness and strength!!! Ahhh...... Enjoy the video! See you soon!

NaMOOSEte' Vicki