Idam na mama

Idam na mama — “This is not mine.”

In the karma yoga teachings, Acharya Shunya explains with this mantra how to let go of ownership in our actions. Karma yoga invites us to gradually set aside the ego in our actions and to come closer to what is truly asked of us, which is to take our place in the universe and  follow our divine duty, our dharma.

Idam na mama is in every action, in every task you perform. You are part of a greater whole. And yet we often forget this, especially when we act in such a way that we are absorbed in our ‘doing’, driven by the pull of our ego. But sometimes it becomes suddenly clear that everything, even our earth, our beautiful planet, is part of this universal rhythm of giving and receiving. Then we recognize the examples surrounding us that testify to this law: nature that dies back and sprouts again, the sun that rises and sets, the rain that destroys and gives life…

How could we, small human beings, not be part of it?

In such moments the mantra helps us remember: Idam na mama. This is not mine.

Even the experiences you encounter in this life are not yours. These words helped me through a time of grief and helplessness. “Idam na mama. This grief is not mine,” I thought. “Idam na mama. This helplessness is not mine.” The mantra taught me to see my pain as something I was allowed to receive, transform, and return to the universe.

Every experience is a seed planted within you. And every seed carries a hidden power. Tears of sorrow can harden that seed into a thorny bush, but they can also water it. Then the seed grows into a plant that bears fruit — for yourself, and to be shared with others. Fruits that in turn contain seeds, from which others may grow their own strength.

Within each of us lie such seeds, waiting for the right circumstances to awaken their divine energy. You feel it in the silence between your tears, in the moment when your sobbing ceases and clarity suddenly flows through your being.

Those “right circumstances” are often experiences that make us both vulnerable and strong. For it takes strength to dare to feel weak. It takes courage to show your tears. And when you feel lonely, you also realize: you are never alone. For this power connects you with everything and everyone.

It is Durga. It is God. It is Allah. It is love. However you name it, this power lives within you, in your deepest core. Recognize her. Let her grow. She has always been there — in you, in all of us.

Idam na mama.

About the author

Indrani is a yoga teacher who builds bridges between cultures and spiritual traditions. She draws wisdom from the Vedas, the Quran, and other sacred texts, and enjoys exploring the common ground they share. 

She teaches yoga in Belgium, works in education, and supports humanitarian efforts in Mauritania.

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