Karma Yoga 2023
In the spirit of Yoga with Lisa, December is the month that we explore unselfish actions and service. This is one of the paths of yoga described in the Bhagavad Gita –
Karma Yoga
This Hindu spiritual text, is a manual for how to live life, teach and practise yoga; conquer thoughts and be patient. It teaches that whatever path we are on and wherever we are on that path it’s ok.
Karma Yoga may be described as trying one’s best without being attached to the outcome, considering all options, and then choosing the right one. It is the path of unselfish action which in turn is thought to purify the mind.
“No effort ever goes wasted, there is no failure.”
Karma Yoga purifies the heart and counteracts the ego. It involves the principal of all work as an offering, without thought of personal reward. There are four principals.
- Right attitude.
- Right motive.
- Give up results.
- Serve the self in all.
In the West, Karma is often thought of as “what goes around comes around” which is very different from the Eastern view of one’s actions not being based on personal desires/rewards. Our ordinary actions are performed to nourish the universe that has nourished us. The results of our actions become a spiritual offering rather than hoarding the results for ourselves. Karma is both action and the result of action.
I find this theme particularly helpful as the Christmas season approaches and we can become caught up gifting presents. Karma yoga focuses on inner attitude and the harmony of the mind with which the act is performed.
The secret of Karma Yoga is to forget yourself and to place others first. This way karma yoga will be easy, and we will all be at our happiest.
Kindness with expectation is kindness ruined.
True goodness expects nothing in return.
Karma means duty, yoga means union.
Lose yourself in goodness, and you’ll find unity.
My very best wishes for the festive season and see you on the mat in 2024.
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