Karma Yoga Service & Study Volunteer Program

Karma Yoga Service

The Centre’s mission is to pass on the teachings of classical ashtanga yoga.

In support of this we offer classes and workshops aligned with these teachings as passed on to us by our teacher, Baba Hari Dass. We also rent the facility to like-minded groups. Providing a supportive environment for these activities requires an organised infrastructure in all areas from farming to vehicle maintenance, from cooking to housekeeping. Those coming to the Centre on the Karma Yoga Service and Study program join long-term resident karma yogis in supporting this work, and in so doing, reap the benefits of selfless service, the peaceful environment, classes, natural lifestyle and spiritual community, not to mention the delicious organic food. We accept sincere applicants of all ages, nationalities and religious traditions who wish to further their spiritual development through selfless service.

What will I be doing?
One part of the program consists of service in various areas of the Centre, including kitchen, housekeeping, gardening, maintenance and office support. In the other part, the study component, we offer a wide variety of classes on asana (postures), pranayama (breathing practices), meditation, and yoga philosophy, along with community meetings. Optional weekly activities include kirtan (devotional singing), satsang (a spiritual gathering of like-minded seekers) and a variety of other interesting classes, speakers and discussion groups.

Learn more about selfless service

Karma yoga, the practice of selfless service, is one of the three main paths of traditional yoga, and is prescribed by Babaji as the common background to all our daily activities. In selfless service, efforts are made to perform all actions without self-interest, but nonetheless wholeheartedly, with enthusiasm and focus. Despite working towards an objective, the work is done without attachment to the fruit of the actions. These are high ideals – virtually all our actions contain some degree of self-interest. The task of karma yoga is to seek out and slowly remove self-interest, even as it gets more and more subtle. Over time this results in action that has at its foundation a deep peace and joy that are unaffected by adverse circumstances. Karma yogis who stay at the Centre become guided by these principles, not as external rules, but through the understanding that they bring about the reduction of the ego, the “I-me-mine” concept, as the motivating force of all of our thoughts and actions. It is this self-centredness that obstructs the direct knowledge of our true nature. That knowledge is the goal of all yoga practice.

Who should apply?
  • Those wanting to begin, renew or deepen their spiritual practice in an ashtanga yoga environment
  • Those wishing to experience the benefits of living in a working spiritual community
  • Those who would like to help further the mission of the Centre by contributing some of their time, skills and experience
  • Those who are able to commit to the full KYSS session, typically three months
  • Those who will commit to abide by the guidelines for residents of the Centre, including the practice of vegetarianism and a drug-free lifestyle

We can accept singles or couples but we are unable at this time to accommodate children.


What should I bring?
Bring appropriate clothes for indoor and outdoor work as well as yoga classes. Other items to bring include toiletries, alarm clock, swimsuit, rain gear, hat, flashlight or headlamp, indoor shoes or slippers, water bottle, travel mug and a yoga mat if possible. Residents find that slip-on shoes are convenient as there is a no-shoe policy indoors. If you are bringing a bicycle (which is recommended where possible) please also bring a bike lock. Please do not bring candles, incense etc. as the fire risk on the island can be high and the use of open flames is restricted to ceremonies and cooking.

Bed linens, blankets and a towel are supplied for in-house accommodation, and laundry facilities are provided at no cost. If you are camping, please bring your own tent and bedding. We can provide tents for those who do not have them.

The main aim of life is to attain peace. At the land we are doing various things, but underneath it all, that is our aim.
- Baba Hari Dass

Karma Yoga at the Salt Spring Centre

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