Yoga is a practice that we do not typically associate with the act of giving. Consequently, it can be easy to equate yoga solely with the physical practice of yoga that we engage in on the mat. But as yoga becomes more readily understood, many are now coming to realize that yoga is much more than a series of postures. We are all now becoming more aware of the fact that yoga is a way of being, and a practice that infuses every aspect of our lives. One of those aspects being the act of giving, and in yoga this can be done through the act of seva, or selfless service.
Seva, is the Sanskrit word for service, often defined as an offering without expectation of anything in return. At its heart, seva is about recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and contributing to the well-being of others simply because it is the right thing to do. This spirit of giving is a powerful expression of yoga, reminding us that we are not separate form the world but integral parts of a whole.
What is Seva?
In yogic philosophy, seva is an essential part of the path toward living a yogic life. It is the embodiment of karma yoga – the yoga of action – where our deeds become offerings, performed without attachment to the results. Through seva, we move beyond the confines of the ego, expanding our awareness to embrace a higher sense of purpose and unity.
I am reminded of the words from Swami Sivananda who beautifully encapsulated this when he said, “The best form of worship is selfless service.” When we serve others with an open heart, we are not only contributing to their well-being, but also purifying our own minds and hearts. It is in this selfless giving that we discover one of yoga’s deepest teachings: that true fulfillment lies in the service of others.
Seva as Karma Yoga
Karma yoga, as described in the Bhagavad Gita, is the practice of selfless action – performing our duties without attachment to the outcomes. In this sacred text, Krishna teaches that one’s actions, when offered without expectation of reward, become a path to spiritual liberation. “You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.”(Bhagavad Gita 2:47).
Through karma yoga, we learn to act with intention, love, and mindfulness focusing not on what we might receive but on what we can offer. Seva is this principle in action – a gift that we give freely, knowing that the joy of giving is its own reward.
The Transformation Through Seva
One thing that is truly transformative about seva is that it shifts our perspective from “what can I gain?” to “How can I give?” This practice strips away the layers of ego and invites us to connect more deeply with the world around us. It is a way of embodying the principles of ahimsa (non-harming) and satya (truthfulness), key ethical guidelines found in the Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali. When we serve others, we practice non-harming by uplifting those in need and uphold truth by acting with integrity and compassion.
In offering our time, energy, or resources to others, we also nourish our own souls. Through seva, we are reminded that service is not only about alleviating suffering but also about cultivating love, empathy and connection in a world that often feels disconnected.
Seva Off the Mat
While seva is certainly something that we can practice in yoga spaces – perhaps through teaching or volunteering at yoga studios – its power lies in how we carry this practice into the world at large. Seva doesn’t require a special setting or a specific context. It is something that we can embody in our everyday lives, wherever we see the opportunity to help others.
In my own life, supporting organizations such as Sepsis Alliance, Alzheimer’s Association, Stand Up 2 Cancer and others has become a way for me to extend my yoga practice into action. Whether I am raising awareness, sharing resources, or just holding space for someone else’s story, I am reminded that these acts of service are an extension of the practice of yoga itself. It is how I contribute to helping not only individuals, but also the collective whole.
The Ripple Effect of Seva
What is really beautiful about seva is that it often creates a ripple effect. One act of kindness inspires another, and soon, entire communities are uplifted. Whether we are supporting health organizations, standing up for social justice causes or volunteering our time in the communities and places that we feel called to, these acts of service have a far-reaching impact. They remind us that we are all connected, and through our service, we have the power to create positive change.
It is this ripple effect that keeps me grounded in my own yoga journey. Every time I take a moment to support causes that I care about, I am reminded that yoga is much more than individual poses and breathing exercises. It is about showing up, for ourselves and others, in ways that contribute to the greater good.
How to Incorporate Seva into Your Life
If you feel called to practice seva, here are a few ways to start:
- Support Causes You Care About: Whether through financial donations, raising awareness, participating in an organization’s event, or volunteering, find ways to contribute to the organizations and movements that align with your values. Supporting causes like those I’ve mentioned has brought so much meaning to my life, and there are countless other ways to get involved.
- Offer Your Skills: Everyone has something to offer. Whether you are a teacher, artist, writer, coach, medical or mental health professional, or have some other skill that could benefit others, offer it in service. You might volunteer to teach free classes, lend your expertise to an organization, or be a resource for someone in need.
- Practice Daily Acts of Kindness: Your seva doesn’t have to be a grand action. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness – a listening ear, a kind word, or a helping hand – can make a huge impact.
- Be Mindful in Your Actions: The next time that you perform a task for someone or offer your time, do so with intention, care and selflessness. Remember that every act, no matter how small, can be an offering.
Seva reminds us that yoga is not just about personal enlightenment- it’s about contributing to the collective well-being. By practicing seva, we algin ourselves with the flow of universal love and compassion, dissolving the boundaries between ourselves and others. In every act of service we are practicing yoga in its truest form.
When we are not in our yoga spaces practicing yoga, and out into the world with hearts full as we serve, we bring the essence of yoga into our daily lives. Whether through supporting causes, helping those in need, or simply being a source of kindness in someone’s day, we live the practice of seva – and in doing so, we elevate not only our own consciousness, but the consciousness of the world around us.
With love and gratitude,
Carol
Sources:
Easwaran, E. (2007). The Bhagavad Gita (2nd ed.). Nilgiri Press.
Satchidananda, S. (2012). The Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali: Translation
Sivananda, S. (1999). Bliss Divine: A Book of Spiritual Essays on the Lofty Purpose of Human Life.
Salubrity + Soul Yoga 