Karma:
The word Karma means 'action'. According to the beliefs there is always a consequence of an action. Practically speaking, the phrase "what we reap is what we sow" goes well with the concept. We get what we deserve, and nothing happens accidentally. There is logic and a reason behind what happens in our life. Everything is associated with Karma.
"Karma Yoga is the Selfless Devotion of all the inner and outer activities as a sacrifice to the Lord of All Works, offered to the Eternal as Master of all the Soul's energies and austerities." -- Bhagavad Gita.
The key to our liberation thus lies in Karma. To free our mind and to attain spiritual upliftment, living an active life is essential. In ordinary life, we always identify ourselves with the actions we do and take pride in that. Our ego feeds on our activities, skills, talents and knowledge. Practising Karma Yoga helps in freeing our spirit and releasing our earthly body to a better place.
Here are a few ways to practise Karma Yoga:
Proper Attitude-
Yoga in India is already a big thing. Karma yoga is one of those which requires patience and various other factors to work out. A proper attitude is what we should count as the most important aspect. Work is important and according to the yogic beliefs: work should be worshipped. It is another name for living. Throughout one's lifetime, a person should be devoted to doing his or her work or duty. No matter how big or small the job is, one should dedicatedly do it.
Right Motive-
This is more like having the right attitude. In this factor, whatever a person intends to do, impacts immensely. The motive of a person should be pure. The motive should be selfless; this means if anyone is helping another person with some agenda or intention to get something in return, it does not work.
Doing the Duty-
We are all born to do our part in this universe. Our specific duty is seldom termed as 'Dharma'. Performing our task the right way helps in freeing our soul. On the contrary, not performing duty keeps our soul within bondage. According to Bhagavad Gita, performing each and everyone's responsibility is the only way to achieve salvation.
Doing the Best-
Not only doing the work is enough. It is also important to strive hard and provide the best one can serve. One doesn't need to perform the way others do it. If someone has a better way out, they should follow that. One should not be bothered by criticism or back out because fear is taking over. Giving the best is essential. Then only one would serve adequately.
Not Thinking About the Results-
The thought of result or reciprocation should be given up. God is here, and he is going to drive us. We should follow the instructions and should not question his intentions. The Gunas are playing their part. So one can only realize the truth by working and leaving the outcome in the almighty's hand.
Proper Yoga-
Apart from all these, certain yoga poses and all the other factors mentioned above should be practised.
- Prasarita Balasana:
Prasarita means expanded or stretched out. Bala means child. The way a child sits; is the pose in which this yoga should be practised. In this pose, one should sit back on the hells, extend the arms, and lower the head to touch the ground. The hands should be stretched out parallel to the ground.
- Downward facing dog position:
Apart from these two, many other Karma Yoga positions require to be learnt from a trainer. Joining yoga classes is thus necessary for those who are starting with the yogas. Although there are many such classes, online yoga classes are in much demand nowadays. This is because such online yoga classes are easily available, and one can practice the yogas from the comfort of their home.
8
