Karma Yoga, also known as “Budhi Yoga” or the “discipline of action” is based on the teachings of “The Bhagavad Gita”. Karma Yoga is one among the four pillars of yoga, and focuses on the binding to “Dharma” or “Duty” while also simultaneously remaining detached without expecting a reward. It states that one can attain salvation (moksha) by performing their duties without a tinge of selfishness.

Karma yoga is based on the belief that man is born with certain Karma’s which motivate him towards performing certain actions in his current life. This process continues until zero balance is attained (no karma remains) when one is said to be free from the cycle of rebirth. Karma Yoga is also a selfless service to humanity.

One major factor which is a pre-requisite to performing Karma Yoga is detachment to the fruits of the actions. This brings freedom from misery and fear. This enables an individual to discharge his work at ease. Karma Yoga does not require services rendered through pomp and wealth. For instance, in case one finds an individual who is really sick lying on the road, provide him with food or water, and take him to the nearest hospital if possible, or atleast cheer him up with a few good words. Such services are referred to as “Karma Yoga”.

Karma Yoga is also the path adopted for doing the “right thing” and following one’s duty irrespective of the outcome. “Karma” is basically the actions performed by an individual from birth to death, performing actions with a disinterested interest without taking the wrong path. Such action performed by adopting the right path without harming anybody and that which is in accordance with the “Law of Dharma” is referred to as “Karma Yoga”.

On performing Karma yoga, one’s heart is purified. All negative qualities such as jealousy, hatred, egoism and superiority vanish. One develops sympathy, love, humility, mercy and tolerance. Sense of selfishness will get eradicated, and one can look at life in a more liberal and broad manner.

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