What is Karma Yoga?

Karma yoga, defined as the yoga of selfless action, is a spiritual path focusing on service and acting without attachment to the fruits of one's actions. This form of yoga is deeply rooted in the Bhagavad Gita's teachings, emphasizing the importance of performing duties with an attitude of non-attachment and devotion to the divine.

Karma yoga encourages practitioners to engage in acts of service, offering their skills and efforts to help others without expecting anything in return. This practice helps in cultivating humility, reducing ego, and creating a sense of connectedness with all beings.

The unique aspect of Karma yoga lies in its approach to daily life as a path to enlightenment. By transforming ordinary actions into acts of devotion, practitioners learn to live in a state of constant awareness, service, and union with the divine.

Origins of Karma Yoga

Karma yoga is one of the four primary types of yoga from the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna the importance of selfless action as a means to attain spiritual liberation. It's a philosophy that integrates action with contemplation, teaching that selfless service leads to spiritual growth.

The philosophy of Karma yoga centers around the concept of 'Nishkama Karma,' which means acting without attachment to outcomes. It teaches that by dedicating every action to the higher Self or God, one can live a life of fulfillment and spiritual progress.

Karma Yoga Practice

Karma yoga is practiced through volunteer work, community service, and any other activity that contributes to the well-being of others. It can be integrated into one's daily life, making every action an offering to the divine.

Common Practices: Volunteering, Charitable Work, Acts of Kindness

Karma Yoga Suitability

Experience Level: Accessible to All

Physical Demand: Varies Based on Activity

Mind-Body Engagement: Primarily Meditative (mindset)

Adaptability: Highly Adaptable

Focus Area: Spiritual Growth

Notes on Karma Yoga

Karma yoga offers a path to self-realization through the purification of the heart and mind, encouraging a selfless attitude and fostering a sense of unity with all life.

One of the 4 Primary Paths of Yoga: Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, Kriya Yoga

References

‘Yoga, Karma, and Rebirth: A Brief History and Philosophy’ by Stephen Phillips

‘Karma Yoga: The Yoga of Action’ by Swami Vivekananda