Blog

  • All
  • Community Conversations
  • For Yoga Teachers
  • Q&A With Hari-k
  • Social Commentary
  • Spiritual Knowledge
  • Uncategorized

Good Karma is Bad

The Sanskrit word “karma” refers to a universal law of action and reaction.

Yoga wisdom texts describe three kinds of karma: harmonious, dissonant, and transcendental.

Harmonious karma consists of actions that are aligned with cosmic order and generate correspondingly harmonious reactions, otherwise known as “good karma.”

Conversely, dissonant karma, actions that conflict with cosmic order, produce negative reactions: “bad karma.”

Now here’s the catch:

Good Karma is Bad READ MORE

Why Study the Bhagavad-gita?

Contemporary yogis usually look to Patanjali’s Yoga-sutras for an introduction to yoga philosophy. But the Yoga-sutras are actually for yogis who already know the underlying philosophy for Patanjali’s particular system of yoga. If you want to understand the philosophy behind all of the classical yoga systems – including Patanjali’s – then you want to study the Bhagavad-gita.

Why Study the Bhagavad-gita? READ MORE

Community Conversation: How To Connect Yoga Asana to Yoga Philosophy with JEN RENÉ

In this engaging episode, yoga instructors Hari-kirtana das and Jen René delve into the nuanced relationship between yoga asana and yoga philosophy. They explore how physical practice can invoke deep emotional responses, the significance of being present in challenging poses, and the idea of experiencing yoga beyond the physical.

Jen René shares her insights on modifying Ashtanga practices to accommodate individual needs, emphasizing the importance of preserving joy and sustainability in one’s practice. The discussion also touches on how yoga teaches tolerance and resilience, referencing key philosophical texts like the Bhagavad-gita. Listeners are encouraged to find their own path in yoga, balancing discipline with self-awareness and compassion.

Community Conversation: How To Connect Yoga Asana to Yoga Philosophy with JEN RENÉ READ MORE

Knowing When to Quit

We hear a lot about “letting go” in social media and blog posts about contemporary spirituality. In yoga and meditation classes, “let go” is a common cue to release tension in this or that part of your body or mind. In yoga philosophy, it’s usually associated with the idea of letting go of our attachments, accepting when things are beyond our control or, on a deeper level, loosening our grip on ego-driven conceptions of identity.

Knowing When to Quit READ MORE

Political Prana: How Yoga Can Save Democracy

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the intersection of yoga and politics with Jamie Maniscalco, a seasoned political operative and yoga advocate. Jamie shares innovative ideas on how yoga can be introduced into political environments, from the halls of Capitol Hill to grassroots protests. Learn how integrating mindfulness practices can support politicians and their teams, foster better communication across party lines, and even impact legislative processes.
We also explore the broader implications of political engagement through yoga, highlighting its potential to address anger and apathy towards the political system. Jamie’s insights emphasize the importance of personal involvement in democracy and offer practical advice for yoga practitioners looking to make a difference in their communities. Tune in to discover how yoga can play a transformative role in both personal and political spheres.

Political Prana: How Yoga Can Save Democracy READ MORE

Does God Dance?

The German philosopher Frederick Nietzsche famously asked for a better God than a blustering old man or a nameless nothing, and that he “would believe only in a God that knows how to dance.”

Does God Dance? READ MORE