The search for a fulfilling life is as old as humanity itself. In philosophy, psychology, and spiritual practice, there are different perspectives on what happiness means and how it can be achieved. Two fundamental concepts that deal with this topic are eudaimonia and dharma. While psychology often distinguishes between hedonic and eudaimonic happiness, the spiritual practice of Karma Yoga goes even further, placing action without attachment at its core. This connection between psychology, philosophy, and transpersonal practice shows how life beyond preferences and aversions can lead to inner freedom.
Hedonia and Eudaimonia – Two Paths to Happiness
In positive psychology, there are two central approaches to happiness: hedonia and eudaimonia. Hedonic happiness arises from the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. This perspective views well-being as a sequence of pleasant sensations, which, however, usually only last for a short time. The phenomenon of the “hedonic treadmill” describes how people, after experiencing pleasure, often return to their original emotional baseline.
Eudaimonic happiness, on the other hand, is more sustainable because it is based on deeper values, personal growth, and the realization of one’s potential. It does not depend on pleasant emotions but arises from the conscious decision to act in accordance with one’s values—even when this comes with challenges and temporary discomfort. A meaningful life, therefore, requires more than just joy; it demands actions in harmony with what is deeply felt to be right.
Dharma and Karma Yoga – Acting Without Attachment
The idea of eudaimonia finds a fascinating parallel in the principles of Karma Yoga, as described in the Bhagavad Gita. Karma Yoga teaches that true action should be independent of personal preferences and aversions. The essence of this teaching can be summarized in the attitude: “Don’t like, don’t dislike, just act.” It encourages carrying out tasks and responsibilities with an inner neutrality—without emotional attachment to success or failure.
Dharma, understood in Vedic traditions as an individual’s life purpose, is closely connected to this principle. It is not about doing what is pleasant in the short term but about following what aligns with the deeper meaning of one’s existence. Ideally, dharma leads people to use their unique abilities and talents in a way that benefits not only themselves but also the community.
The Higher Self and Transpersonal PracticeAnother element that complements this approach is the concept of the Higher Self, as understood in transpersonal psychology. It describes a state of consciousness that transcends the individual ego and allows connection to universal qualities such as wisdom, compassion, and impartiality. The practice of Karma Yoga promotes this level of awareness by teaching that actions should be performed without expectations or emotional resistance.
The neutrality sought here does not mean indifference but rather a form of inner freedom. Those who do not cling to the results of their actions can fully focus on the present moment and the quality of their doing. Their actions are no longer driven by fear or desire but emerge from a clear awareness of what truly matters.
Conclusion: Beyond Personal Preferences
The integration of eudaimonic happiness, dharma, and Karma Yoga opens up a perspective on life that is not determined by external circumstances or fleeting emotions. Instead, it centers on a deeper understanding of one’s actions. By freeing oneself from attachment to pleasure and aversion to discomfort, greater serenity and a deeper connection with the Higher Self can emerge.
Such a life requires practice and awareness. However, those who follow this path not only experience personal growth but also contribute to a more harmonious and conscious world. The question is not what brings us short-term joy, but what fulfills us with meaning and inner peace in the long run.
In Bodymind therapy, unlike religious traditions, the focus is on integrating both karma and dharma, appreciating both pleasure and meaning and embracing both hedonia and eudaimonia—not necessarily at the same moment or at the expense of one another. To achieve this, a conscious effort is needed to create a win-win situation between the different aspects of our being, so that they complement rather than exclude one another.
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