Quite a few years ago, Russell was tasked with helping out with a documentary film crew in Mysore. Not sure what his title would’ve been? Chief Gopher or Assistant Talent Manager? Basically, he was there to make sure the film crew interacted with the Jois family in a positive way. The whole point of the documentary was to promote SEVA, the work of helping others and devoting your life to selfless service.

Sevā is a Sanskrit word that describes the act of selfless service. Its meaning is said to be embodied by the root words saha, meaning "with that," and eva, meaning "too," which together mean "together with."

So the film crew, in its inimitable way, asked Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, “Guruji, is seva necessary to spiritual growth?” What a softball question, right?

How easy it could’ve been for a modern, socially intelligent, person to riff off of this question… “Yes, of course, helping others is crucial to our own development and care for society in general…” (that’s what everyone there expected him to say).

He could’ve said something like that. So easy…

Except that’s not all what he said. His mission perhaps, was more focused vertical enlightenment, teaching impermanence and God in all things. So instead, he said simply, “No. Not necessary.”

And, Russell had no response but to hide his head in hands.

No, of course its not necessary. Or is it?

The answer will be coloured according to your unique point of view.

The ancient king turned sage, Visvamitra, reached enlightenment through blind hate for his neighbour the preeminent sage, Vasishta. Perhaps this is an example of how Seva isn’t necessary — It’s just something we appreciate from our modern, Judeo-Christian influenced, perspective.

Our guest today, Ben Eckett, is fairly new to Ashtanga, starting back in 2016; but he’s lived a life devoted to serving fellow humans and his constantly focused on increasing good in the world. He’s super charming and full of passion and emanates love for his life’s mission.

He’s a “Devon man,” and like his yogi grandfather, devilishly handsome. We asked him about the contradiction in teaching boxing and yoga to kids and prison-mates. Is there a contradiction to teaching martial arts as a tool towards the betterment of a more loving society?

And, what it seems to come down to is engagement, selfless action, the breath, and love.

And, in the end… Love is all you need.

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The Finding Harmony Podcast is hosted, edited and produced by Harmony Slater and co-hosted by Russell Case. Music by Nick Evans.

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