What is yoga?

The word yoga means “union” of the individual consciousness or soul with the Universal Consciousness or Spirit. While yoga today has many different branches and is often practiced in its simplest physical forms, the deepest practice of yoga is aimed at uniting the individual soul with the Infinite.

What type of yoga do you teach?

Paramahansa Yoganandaji taught the path of Raja Yoga, which includes the practice of definite, scientific methods of meditation — known as Kriya Yoga — that enable one to perceive from the very beginning of one’s efforts, glimpses of the ultimate goal — union of soul with Spirit. The Kriya Yoga path also embodies a complete philosophy and way of life. Through the practice of Kriya Yoga, one is able to calm the mental and physical processes so that one’s consciousness, freed from limitations, can realize the bliss and omnipresence of God.

Do the YSS teachings include practice of Hatha Yoga postures?

While the YSS Lessons do not include instruction in the asanas, or postures, of Hatha Yoga, Paramahansa Yogananda encouraged their practice as very beneficial.

How can I learn more about Kriya Yoga and study the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda?

We suggest you read our free literature piece, Highest Achievements Through Self-realization, and, if you haven’t already, Paramahansa Yogananda’s spiritual classic, Autobiography of a Yogi. If you are interested in studying the teachings of Sri Yogananda, you can apply for the Yogoda Satsanga Lessons.

What do the Yogoda Satsanga Society Lessons consist of?

The YSS Lessons are an in-depth home-study series which provide Paramahansa Yoganandaji’s step-by-step instruction in his Yoga methods, including the Kriya Yoga science of meditation, as well as a whole range of subjects conveying his “How-to-Live” teachings.

How can I realize my spiritual goals when my responsibilities in the world take up so much of my time?

Paramahansa Yogananda well understood the challenges of those who have numerous and time-consuming responsibilities. He taught a path of balanced living that combines meditation and right activity. You will find that his teachings are wonderfully practical and give guidance on many topics relevant to your daily pursuits, including family and work responsibilities. Most of all, they teach how you can bring God — and the all-fulfilling joyous contact with Him — into all your activities. It is helpful to establish a schedule, setting aside a certain amount of time each day for practising the spiritual methods of YSS. It is not only the length of time, but the sincerity and depth of effort with which you practice that will bring a sense of inner connection with God.

How do I know if I am making spiritual progress?

Spiritual development is a gradual process. The surest signs are the positive changes that take place within us: an increasing sense of well-being and security, calmness, joy, deeper understanding, release from bad habits, and a growing love and desire for God. Paramahansa Yogananda said that perseverance is the whole magic of spiritual success. Sometimes those who are making the greatest progress have few or no spiritual experiences as “evidence.” In fact, it is often when we are steadfastly making spiritual effort and courageously facing life’s daily challenges that we are making the greatest progress — even if we are not aware of a tangible response from God. True advancement is reflected more in our day-to-day conduct, thoughts, and actions than in visions or other experiences.

May I also continue other spiritual studies and techniques while practising those of YSS?

Paramahansa Yogananda welcomed those of every faith as students of his teachings. He explained that the results of practising the scientific methods of yoga he taught come not from accepting a particular belief system, but from direct personal experience of God. He did caution, however, that combining spiritual techniques of different paths produces diluted results. Steadfastly following a single path and applying its prescribed methods will take you most quickly to your spiritual goal.

Do you offer classes in meditation?

The way we recommend to learn meditation is by enrolling for the Yogoda Satsanga Lessons. This in-depth home-study series was compiled from the classes given by Paramahansa Yogananda during his lifetime. The YSS Lessons provide his detailed, step-by-step instruction in the Kriya Yoga science of meditation, as well as a whole range of subjects conveying his “How-to-Live” teachings.

When may I receive Kriya Yoga?

Students of the basic series of the Yogoda Satsanga Lessons may apply to receive Kriya Yoga by submitting their personal report (included in Lesson 17) to the Yogoda Satsanga Sakha Math, Ranchi. (Students of the previous edition of the Lessons who have completed Steps I and II—through Lesson number 52 in that series—are also eligible to apply.)

Does one need to have a living guru in order to progress spiritually?

Paramahansa Yogananda explained that all true gurus are living, whether or not they are in a physical body. He said, “Their consciousness is attuned to their disciples, whether or not all are living on the same plane. One of the essential qualities and manifestations of a true guru is omnipresence.” Paramahansa Yogananda himself continues to help and bless all who turn to him for spiritual guidance.

Has anyone succeeded Paramahansa Yogananda in the line of YSS Gurus?

Before his passing, Paramahansaji stated it was God’s wish that he be the last in the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India/Self-Realization Fellowship line of Gurus. “When I am gone,” he said, “the teachings will be the guru; Through the teachings you will be in tune with me and the great Gurus who sent me.” Therefore no later disciple will ever assume the role or title of a guru according to Paramahansa Yogananda. This divine ordinance is not unique in religious history. After the passing of Guru Nanak, the great saint who founded the Sikh religion in India, there was the usual succession of gurus. The tenth guru in the line announced he was to be the last of that line of gurus, and henceforth the teachings were to be considered the guru. Paramahansaji gave the assurance that he would continue to work through the society he founded, Yogoda Satsanga Society of India/Self-Realization Fellowship.

Who is the current head of YSS/SRF?

The current president and spiritual leader of YSS/SRF is Sri Sri Swami Chidananda Giri, a monk of Yogoda Satsanga Society / Self-Realization Fellowship for forty years. Prior to her passing in 2010, late YSS/SRF President Sri Daya Mata expressed her conviction to Mrinalini Mata that Swami Chidananda should succeed Mrinalini Mata as president and spiritual head of YSS/SRF. Mrinalini Mata confirmed this some months before her own passing on August 3, 2017, and affirmed to the Board of Directors her agreement with Daya Mata’s recommendation. Swami Chidananda was elected to this position by the Board of Directors on August 30, 2017.

What is the meaning of the YSS/SRF lotus emblem?

The identifying emblem of Yogoda Satsanga Society of India/ Self-Realization Fellowship depicts the spiritual eye, showing the white star and surrounding rings of blue and golden light at the point between the two eyebrows, situated within a golden lotus flower. It signifies the meditating devotee’s goal of opening the eye of divine perception, just as the open lotus is an ancient symbol of awakened spiritual consciousness.

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