On Nishkama Karma
Nishkama Karma is the idea that if one is not attached to the consequences of their actions, they can gradually free themselves from the bondage of karma. In the Bhagavad Gita, a crucial text in Indian philosophy, Krishna states:
“You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction.”
This concept of letting go of the fruits of our actions is crucial for both teachers and students. As a student of yoga, I interpret nishkama karma as the practice of not striving for specific achievements. Whether it’s finding depth in a pose or achieving a calm, sattvic mind in savasana, we appreciate these moments and commit fully to reaching them, while recognizing that true transformation comes from our dedication to the practice itself and our duties. By acting in this way, we pursue action without adding to our karma through egotistical thoughts.
From a spiritual perspective, nishkama karma also involves cultivating divine trust—that the fruits of our actions will manifest when we, as students, are ready and when it aligns with divine will.
While this may sound like an ideal state of being, the practice of “surrender” or “letting go” can be one of the most challenging skills to cultivate, both in yoga and in everyday life. When faced with hardship or difficult decisions, it can be tempting to choose the path of inaction. However, the more we trust that by fulfilling our duties and adhering to our dharma, the right path will naturally unfold.
In my personal experience, once I released the desperate, rajasic (anxiety driven) energy that once governed my every action, not only did more opportunities begin to arise, but they also became much more enjoyable. The fruits of our labor will be so much sweeter when we aren’t fixating on their arrival.
So how can you practice Nishkama Karma today? Whether in your day to day life or your personal practices! I’d love to hear your thoughts, feel free to email me or shoot me a text message.
OM SHANTI
-Alexandra
