Yogananda Podcast
A podcast focused on the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, presented by devotees Chris, Lauren, Mike, and Priyank. It follows a structured but informal format, covering topics from the book 'Autobiography of a Yogi' and the film 'Awake: The Life of Yogananda'. The podcast is intended for a general audience and is not officially affiliated with Yogananda's organization.
Episodes
Autobiography Chapter 37, Part 2: Yogananda meets Babaji
This episode covers the next part of chapter 37 from: “As I went about my preparations to leave Master and my native land...” to “an artist to draw, for this book, a true picture of the Yogi-Christ of modern India.” This section of the chapter is about Swami Yogananda's initial reluctance and his intense prayer for divine assurance, which culminated in a visit from Mahavatar Babaji. We analyse
Autobiography Chapter 37, Part 1: Yogananda is going to America
This episode covers the start of chapter 37 to: “Surely the Lord will bring us together once more.” Swami Yogananda makes his preparations to travel to America. We explore how he received divine assurance from his guru Swami Sri Yukteswar and material support from his father for his journey. We examined Yogananda's vision of Western faces and his announcement to the Ranchi school about his pla
Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 4: Lahiri Mahasaya’s mastery over death
This episode covers the last part of chapter 36 from:“That was oneof my last visits to Banaras to see my guru...” to the end ofthe chapterIn this episode we explored the events surrounding LahiriMahasaya's Mahasamadhi, including his refusal of medical treatment for a boil,his deliberate and symbolic act of leaving the body, and the significance ofhis householder cremation rites. We examined th
Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 3: Babaji’s teleportation tree
This episode covers the next part of chapter 36 from: “I soon left Banaras, and set to work in Serampore on the scriptural writings requested by Babaji...” to “... a voice like a celestial flute, Babaji disappeared into the hidden radiance.” This section of the chapter focuses on Babaji's interest in the West and the writing of "The Holy Science" book by Sri Yukteswar. We discusses
Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 2: Lahiri Mahasaya learns that the end is near...
This episode covers the next part of chapter 36 from: “You, Swamiji, have a part to play in the coming harmonious exchange between...” to “...infuse greater divine faith in a wide circle of men who learn the story.” Please note, we made a slight mistake with the order of text, I hope you will forgive us: Sri Yukteswar’s Holy Science assignment and the conversation with Lahiri Mahasaya about Sri Y
Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 1: Babaji’s tree
This episode covers the start of chapter 36 to: “...base its religious beliefs on the unshakable foundations of yogic science.” Chapter 36 features the first and only appearance of all four gurus in the book. We explored the significance of the Kumbh Mela festival, where Sri Yukteshwar met Mahavatar Babaji under a sacred tree, though he didn't recognize Babaji at the time due to Babaji's ability t
Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 5: Lahiri Mahasaya’ grandson Ananda Mohan Lahiri
This episode covers the last part of chapter 35 from: “Lahiri Mahasaya’s handwriting and signature, in Bengali script, are shown...” to the end of the chapter. As we examined the beautiful Bengali lettering and signature from Lahiri Mahasaya, we review the scientific foundation of yoga mudras like Shambhavi Mudra, which involves fixing the gaze between the eyebrows without blinking. Lahiri Mahasa
Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 4: The fine line between eagerness and arrogance
This episode covers the next part of chapter 35 from: “If a disciple neglected any of his worldly obligations, the master would...” to “... Evidently the master’s blessing was a necessary ingredient” This section of the chapter covers Lahiri Mahasaya’s intriguing secular approach to including Muslims, Christians, and people of various faiths into Kriya Yoga practice in the 1890s. We explored how L
Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 3: Solve all your problems through meditation
This episode covers the next part of chapter 35 from: “A significant feature of Lahiri Mahasaya’s life was his gift of Kriya...” to “...I have already initiated you, in a dream,’ Lahiri Mahasaya replied.” This section of the chapter covers Lahiri Mahasaya’s intriguing secular approach to including Muslims, Christians, and people of various faiths into Kriya Yoga practice in the 1890s. We explored
Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 2: Be thou a (householder) yogi
This episode covers the next part of chapter 35 from: “The timeless bond of guru and disciple that existed between John and Jesus...” to “... obeisance toward the guru is an ancient Oriental custom.” This section discusses Mahavatar Babaji and Lahiri Mahasaya’s part in the great spiritual renaissance they initiated, including the powerful story about an English superintendent who witnessed Lahiri
Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 1: John the Baptist and Jesus the Christ
This episode covers the start of chapter 35 to: “... Let us see whether Elias will come to save him.” Starting with sharing our initial impressions and expectations of this great chapter, we highlighted its connections between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. We then delve into the nuanced relationship between John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, exploring Paramahansa Yogananda's intuit
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 7: Ask, and it shall be given you
This episode covers the last part of chapter 34 from: “Burning with the enthusiasm of truth, I spoke without due thought...” to the end of the chapter. Chris and Priyank discussed Mahavatar Babaji's miraculous appearance at the devotional request of Lahiri Mahasaya. We explore the themes of humility, overzealousness, and the difference between demanding God's presence when needed vs on a whim. The
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 6: Applying for Kriya with SRF-YSS
This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 frrom: “How remote seemed my family, the office, the world, as I…” to “...This is some daydream you have recounted.” This section of the chapter focuses on Lahiri Mahashaya's final moments in the hewavely Himalayas and with Mahavatar Babaji, with his plea to relax the rigid rules governing Kriya Yoga transmission. We explored how Babaji agreed t
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 5: Be in the world, but not of it
This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 from: “How remote seemed my family, the office, the world, as I…” to “...This is some daydream you have recounted.” This episode covers the final stages Lahiri Mahasaya's initiation into Kriya yoga, where Mahavatar Babaji demonstrated materialisation abilities by creating a palace and a bowl of plenty that could fulfill any desire. We explored t
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 4: Lahiri Mahasaya’s Kriya Initiation Ceremony
This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 from: “As I remained silent in awe, my guide made a sweeping gesture…” to “...Put your hand there and receive whatever food you desire.” This episode continues Lahiri Mahasaya's experience with Babaji's materialised palace. We examine how Babaji manifested a jewelled palace from cosmic rays to fulfil Lahiri's past life desire for a golde
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 3: A palace fit for the King
This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 to: “Yonder light is the glow of a golden palace...” to “...When this structure has served its purpose, Babaji will dematerialise it.’” Lahiri Mahasaya shows that even liberated masters must temporarily engage with cosmic delusion to maintain a physical form, with Babaji fulfilling Lahiri Mahasai's latent desire for a palace as part of his (self
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 2: Mahavatar Babaji is waiting for us to return
This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 to: “As I maintained a bewildered silence, the saint approached...” to “‘The hour is midnight.’ My guide laughed softly...” This section of the chapter focuses on the meeting between Lahiri Mahashaya and Mahavar Babaji in the Himalayas. The conversation centred on a profound reunion where Babaji touched Lahiri Mahasaya's forehead, triggering the
Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 1: The office was made for you, and not you for the office
This episode covers the start of chapter 34 to: “... Lahiri, surely this cave seems familiar to you?” Summary: The chapter focusses on the miraculous story of Lahiri Mahashaya's meeting with his guru Mahavatar Babaji in the Himalayas, one of the most significant spiritual initiations in the book. We examine how Lahiri Mahasaya's journey from his accounting job to meeting Babaji involved mu
Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 4: Babaji’s immortal promise
This episode covers the last part of chapter 33 from: “During my visit at Ranbajpur with Ram Gopal…” to the end of the chapter. Summary: This last part of the chapter covers Ram Gopal's significant meeting with Babaji and Mataji near Dashashwamedh Ghat in Benaras (Varanasi). We examined the supernatural elements of the encounter, including the appearance of light beings and the manifestation of Ba
Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 3: “Jump then”—the most chilling words spoken. Ever.
This episode covers the next part of chapter 33 from : “Two amazing incidents of Babaji’s life are known to me…” to “…the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me”. Summary: This section of the chapter covers two dramatic stories about Mahavatar Babaji and his group of Himalayan disciples. We examined how Babaji intervened to help his devotees overcome their ka
Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 2: Krishna, Rama and Buddha
This episode covers the next part of chapter 33 from : “Krishna, Rama, Buddha, and Patanjali were among the ancient Indian avatars…” to “…he occasionally accepts fruits, or rice cooked in milk and clarified butter”. Summary: This episode uncovers more about Mahavatar Babaji, described as the deathless yogi of the Himalayas who has guided spiritual history throughout centuries. We discuss Babaji
Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 1: Mahavatar Babaji
This episode covers the start of chapter 33 to: “…could Christ indeed be followed except in the overarching Spirit?” Summary: The meeting focused on discussing Chapter 33 of "Autobiography of a Yogi" by Paramahansa Yogananda, which introduces the character of Babaji. The participants, including Chris, Priyank, Michael, and Lauren, explored Babaji's significance as an avatar, his myst
Autobiography Chapter 32, Part 4: Shyama Charan Lahiri Mahasaya
This episode covers last part of chapter 32 from: “Very scanty information about the life of Lahiri Mahasaya and his universal doctrine…” to the end of the chapter. Summary: The last section of chapter 33 focuses on the biography of Lahiri Mahasaya. We explore the details about Lahiri Mahasaya's life, including his birth in 1828, his traditional Brahmin upbringing, and his eventual meeting wi
Autobiography Chapter 32, Part 3: Yogananda’s beloved India
This episode covers the next part of chapter 32 from: ““Yogananda,” he said with unusual gravity...” to “... vital to man’s happiness and to a nation’s longevity.” Summary: Swami Sri Yukteswar's profound prophecy and teachings about the Dwapara Yuga (atomic age) and the need for global unity make up the core of this episode. We explore the significance of Lahiri Mahasaya’s prediction that an a
Autobiography Chapter 32, Part 2: Rama Lives
This episode covers the next part of chapter 32 from: “Another disciple came in; I asked him to remain in the house....” to “...he had to cure Rama of death, a disease usually final!” Summary: This section of the chapter continues the story of Rama's resurrection and the teachings about faith and following one's guru. The discussion centred on how Swami Sri Yukteswar's friend Rama appe
Autobiography Chapter 32, Part 1: Lazarus
This episode covers the start of chapter 32 to: “...a lover of quiet, now he had attained the utter stillness of death.” Summary: This first part of the chapter covers the resurrection story of Rama, which mirrors the biblical story of Lazarus. The group examined Sri Yukteswar's interpretation of Jesus's reference to being the "Son of God" and explored how this concept relates to
Autobiography Chapter 31, Part 6: Shankari Mai Jiew
This episode covers the last part of chapter 31 from: “Faith in the automatic adjustments of righteousness...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: This last section of the chapter continues the themes of revenge and divine justice. Paramahansa Yogananda offers a fresh interpretation on divine retribution rather than seeking personal vengeance align with biblical (and Jesus Christ’s) messages, part
Autobiography Chapter 31, Part 5: Transcending Reincarnation
This episode covers the next part of chapter 31 from: “On many occasions the swami was seen to drink, with no ill effect...” to “...The sinner, healed by Trailanga’s words, slunk feebly away.” Summary: This section of the chapter explores Trailanga Swami’s mastery over the body and mind, including his ability to drink poison, walk on water, and remain unbothered by extreme heat, and we look at the
Autobiography Chapter 31, Part 4: Skip sleep
This episode covers the next part of chapter 31 from: “One of Lahiri Mahasaya’s disciples, the venerable Kali Kumar Roy...” to “...awakening of the seven cerebrospinal centres constitutes the true path to the Infinite.” Summary: Lahiri Mahasaya offers a unique case study for our own habits on sleep and meditation, and we review Paramahansa Yogananda's teachings on transcending sleep through ad
Autobiography Chapter 31, Part 3: The mysticism of Lahiri Mahasaya
This episode covers the next part of chapter 31 from: “On the following day I returned to her home and enjoyed...” to “... in 1935, when I made enquiry, she was still living.”. Summary: This section of the book explores stories about Lahiri Mahashaya's disciples, particularly discussing a miracles surrounding one particular devotee named Abhoya for whom a train was stopped in its tracks, and a
Autobiography Chapter 31, Part 2: Guruhusband Lahiri Mahasaya
This episode covers the next part of chapter 31 from: “My guru asked me to receive initiation into Kriya...” to “...for sharing with me her wondrous experiences”. Summary: This section of the chapter focuses on the spiritual significance of taking Kriya initiation and the role of a guru in one's life. We explore the unique experiences of Srimati Kashi Moni, the wife of Lahiri Mahashaya, examin
Autobiography Chapter 31, Part 1: Being awoken by Angels
This episode covers the start of chapter 31 to: “their refulgent forms vanished. The room darkened...” Summary: This unique chapter covers a first person account of how it was to be with the Avatar Lahiri Mahashaya's. We explore Srimati Kashi Moni’s background, including her marriage age and the mystical experience that transformed her perception of Lahiri Mahashaya from husband to guru. The c
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 7: Don’t be tricked by the Cosmic Magician
This episode covers the last part of chapter 30 from: “One day I entered a cinema house to view a newsreel...” to the end of the chapter Summary: In this section of the chapter Paramahamsa Yogananda explores Guruji's prayer and the biblical references to Elijah and Elisha, discussing how these stories relate to the concept of miracles. We share our personal experiences of miracles, both grand
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 6: Why is there suffering?
This episode covers the next part of chapter 30 from: “One day I entered a cinema house to view a newsreel...” to “... I looked up to the throbbing stream of lifetrons and spoke entreatingly. " Summary: This section of the book Paramahansa Yogananda focuses on the concept of life as a motion picture and using his experiences with visions of war and suffering. We explore the philosophical impl
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 5: Wake, my children wake!
This episode covers the next part of chapter 30 from: “In 1915, shortly after I had entered the Swami Order, I witnessed...” to “...making them actors as well as audience in His planetary theatre." Summary: This section of the chapter explains how historical events (1915) influenced Paramahansa Yogananda’s meditation practices and enhanced his understanding of consciousness. We examine variou
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 4: The sun shineth in his strength
This episode covers the next part of chapter 30 from: “Masters who are able to materialise and dematerialise their bodies...” to “...rise up as master of maya, knowing his dominion over the cosmos." Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda describes a masters' abilities to materialize and dematerialize their bodies, and examining scientific perspectives on reality and consciousness. Reva joins us a
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 3: Energy is the mass multiplied by the square of velocity
This episode covers the next part of chapter 30 from: “The frank realization that physical science is concerned with...” to “...this conception brings us to the law of miracles. " Summary: In this episode we focus on the concept of "mind stuff" and scientific breakthroughs, particularly the development of the electron microscope. Paramahansa Yogananda explains how electrons exhibit
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 2: God does not throw dice
This episode covers the next part of chapter 30 from: “To surmount maya was the task assigned to the human race...” to “...but that atomic energy is essentially mind-stuff". Summary: This section further explores the miracles from the perspective of both spirituality and physics. Paramahansa Yogananda examined how the Vedic understanding of Maya, or illusion, relates to modern scientific theo
Autobiography Chapter 30, Part 1: The Three Hermits – with full disclosure
This episode covers the start of chapter 30 to: “...but what gravitation and electricity are, no mortal knoweth.” Summary: As we start this heavy chapter and think about our expectations, the chapter explores miracles and religious perspectives, with particular focus on Leo Tolstoy's teachings and their connection to nonviolence. We review Tolstoy's views on Christianity and his similariti
Autobiography Chapter 29, Part 3: Rabindranath Tagore’s universal song
This episode covers the last part of chapter 29 from: “Rabindranath invited me to stay overnight in the guest house...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: Today we focus on Rabindranath Tagore's educational philosophy and cultural impact, including his approach to teaching and the universal themes in his poetry. We also explored Tagore's influence on education through his university and h
Autobiography Chapter 29, Part 2: Rabindranath Tagore’s glorious blood line
This episode covers the next part of chapter 29 from: “About two years after founding the Ranchi school...” to “...Dwijendra, was a deep-seeing philosopher, beloved even by birds and woodland creatures”. Summary: As Paramahansa Yogananda and Rabindranath Tagore share some divine fellowship and compare teaching techniques, guruji takes a moment to appreciate the flesh and blood form of the divine
Autobiography Chapter 29, Part 1: Rabindranath Tagore’s Nobel chanting
This episode covers the start of chapter 29 to: “...Tagore’s version of an old Bengali song, “Light the Lamp of Thy Love.” Summary: As Paramahansa Yogananda speaks so fondly of Rabindranath Tagore's achievements and influence both in and beyond India, we explore Tagore's educational legacy through Shantiniketan and Viswa Bharati University, discussing his approach to teaching and integrati
Autobiography Chapter 28, Part 3: Yogananda makes certain we stay true
This episode covers the last part of chapter 28 from: “I returned to Ranchi a few days later...” to the end of the chapter Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda’s search for the reincarnated Kashi in Kolkata comes to a beautiful crescendo and an emotional encounter with Kashi's new family to be. We examined Guruji's abilities to detect electrical impulses and translate them into profound intuitiv
Autobiography Chapter 28, Part 2: Yogananda’s eternal promise
This episode covers the next part of chapter 28 from: “I returned to Ranchi a few days later...” to “...I practised the yoga method steadily for about six months after Kashi’s death”. Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda’s emotional confrontation with Kashi's family after learning of Kashi's death was a little shocking to us gentle readers, but discuss the ramifications of the same. The themes o
Autobiography Chapter 28, Part 1: Yogananda’s morbid field trip with Kashi et al
This episode covers the start of chapter 28 to: “...unfavourable publicity to the school. He saw no choice but to go.” Summary: We introduce this chapter and set our expectations focusing on themes of reincarnation and the spiritual journey of Kashi, who received Guruji's unconditional support despite not being his formal disciple. We discuss various stories and teachings from Paramahansa Yoga
Autobiography Chapter 27, Part 4: Swami Pranabananda’s glorious mahasamadhi
This episode covers the last part of chapter 27 from: “The body of Pranabananda, which had appeared so well and strong during...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: Swami Yogananda's asks Swami Pranabananda some probing questions surrounding his connection with God in the twilight years of his life. Swami Pranabananda’s principal devotee Sanandan informs us about the last days with his guru P
Autobiography Chapter 27, Part 3: Yogananda’s teachings on life and death
This episode covers the next part of chapter 27 from: “With twenty fertile acres at our disposal, the students, teachers, and I...” to “... So keep up Kriya Yoga ceaselessly, and reach the divine portals quickly.” Summary: This chapter contains a beautiful image of Ranchi School which shows how it has, since then, transformed into a full-fledged ashram with complete facilities, including a meditat
Autobiography Chapter 27, Part 2: Yogananda’s How to Live Schools
This episode covers the next part of chapter 27 from: “I organised a programme for both grammar- and high-school grades...” to “...he observed with twinkling eyes, ‘but I can feel for you!’” Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda's educational vision and the establishment of the Yogoda School is the core theme of this episode, we discuss how he incorporated both secular and divine teachings while emph
Autobiography Chapter 27, Part 1: Service and Schooling
This episode covers the first part of chapter 27 to: “...new school, which I called “Yogoda Satsanga Brahmacharya Vidyalaya.” Summary: This episode focuses on self-inquiry, and the role of rituals in achieving spiritual understanding with respect to Kriya Yoga. We discussed various philosophical perspectives on self-realization and the concept of Shankaracharya’s Advaita Moksha, including referenc
Autobiography Chapter 26, Part 5: Outward rituals vs inner realisation
This episode covers the last part of chapter 26 from: ‘“Introspection, or “sitting in the silence,” is an unscientific way of trying’ to the end of the chapter. Summary: This episode focuses on self-inquiry, and the role of rituals in achieving spiritual understanding with respect to Kriya Yoga. We discussed various philosophical perspectives on self-realization and the concept of Shankaracharya’s
Autobiography Chapter 26, Part 4: All aboard the Kriya Express
This episode covers the next part of chapter 26 from: ‘“Introspection, or “sitting in the silence,” is an unscientific way of trying’ to “...and Death once dead, there’s no more dying then.” Summary: This section of the chapter exploring the extremes of having perfect Kriya and no Kriya. We explore the nuanced spiritual concepts including meditation techniques, consciousness states, and the relat
Autobiography Chapter 26, Part 3: Paramahansa Yogananda and Kriya Yoga
This episode covers on the next part of chapter 26 from: “The ancient yogic technique converts the breath into mind-stuff...” to “...And Death once dead, there’s no more dying then.” Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda’s gentle promotion of the benefits of Kriya Yoga and its scientific principles is varied and persistent. We explore Guruji's teachings on the relationship between breath, consciousn
Autobiography Chapter 26, Part 2: The Aum vibration vs. tinnitus
This episode covers on the next part of chapter 26 from: “Kriya Yoga is mentioned twice by the ancient sage Patanjali...” to “...which constitutes the first materially active expression of Spirit.” Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda teaches us Kriya Yoga's connections to Christian texts and its significance in spiritual evolution of man. We discuss the importance of devotion, concentration, and r
Autobiography Chapter 26, Part 1: Babaji’s Kriya Yoga
This episode covers on the start of chapter 26 to: “...because of priestly secrecy and man’s indifference, the sacred lore gradually became inaccessible”. Summary: We explore the science and metaphysics of Kriya Yoga as taught in this beautiful chapter and other of Paramahansa Yogananda’s writings, discussing its origins, techniques, and historical connections to various spiritual traditions. We
Autobiography Chapter 25, Part 3: Sri Yukteswar heals through astral mathematics
This episode covers on the last part of chapter 25 from: “On my return from Japan, I learned that during my absence...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: This section of the book covers the various healing practices and spiritual techniques from Paramahansa Yogananda and Sri Yukteswar's teachings, including how faith, physical objects, and specific practices contributed to Nalini's rec
Autobiography Chapter 25, Part 2: Yogananda heals through sheer will power
This episode covers on this part of chapter 25 from: “Soon after Ananta’s passing, my younger sister Nalini was...” to "...their marriage, begun so inauspiciously, turned out to be ideally happy.” Summary: This section of the chapter continues the themes of sibling dynamics, cultural perspectives on marriage, and spiritual healing. We explore the cultural differences between Indian and Wes
Autobiography Chapter 25, Part 1: Yogananda’s vision of Ananta’s eternal sleep
This episode covers on the start of chapter 25 to: "...in all family affairs he played this dual parental role.” Summary: This chapter covers some fascinating themes of family dynamics, spiritual growth, and the balance between spiritual topics and storytelling elements. We examine Guruji's experiences, including his intuitive realization about his brother's death, his brief journey
Autobiography Chapter 24, Part 4: Carl Jung
This episode covers on the last part of chapter 24 from: "There are a number of great men, living today in American...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: Michael and Priyank explored the distinctions between yogis and swamis, while discussing Paramahamsa Yogananda’s inclusive perspective on Western spiritual practitioners who embody yogic qualities despite not following traditional Hindu p
Autobiography Chapter 24, Part 3: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
This episode covers on the next part of chapter 24 from: " The ancient rishi Patanjali defines yoga as “neutralisation of the alternating waves in...” to “...with egotistical desires and plays his part in life as a willing instrument of the Divine.” Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda focusses on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras and the eightfold path of yoga, including the author Patanjali himself. W
Awake Minute 8: Why we need a Guru
* This episode had to be republished due to Spotify instructed copyright removal of small snippet used from John Lennon music, for full version you may see it on youtube at ~12mins *Our second guest of the show Carolina from Brazil joins us to discuss what the word "Guru" means to her and the impact of yoga to the world. 00:00 Meet Carolina; 04:00 Minute summary; 04:38 Yoga and brotherhood; 20:50
Awake Minute 4: My Sweet Lord
* This episode had to be republished due to Spotify instructed copyright removal of small snippet used from George Harrison music, for full version you may see it on youtube at ~48mins *This minute starts with a profound prayer then more from Krishna Das about Paramahansa Yogananda's impactful voice. We discuss Guruji's voice in some detail. George Harrison has had a profound impact on each of the
Autobiography Chapter 24, Part 2: I am He, Shivoham
This episode covers on the next part of chapter 24 from: "As I knelt before Sri Yukteswar, and for the first time heard...” to “... a manifest need exists for yoga: the science of mind control.” Summary: Mark and Reva from the London centre join us to discuss Mukunda's initiation ceremony into the Swami order, the historical significance of Shankaracharya in reorganizing Hinduism, and th
Autobiography Chapter 24, Part 1: The most sacred initiation
This episode covers on the start of chapter 24 to: "...such as: “This atma is Brahma” or “Thou art That” or “I am He.”. Summary: This section is all about Mukunda’s journey to becoming Swami Yogananda. We reflect on our own Kriya initiation experiences and the need to balance spiritual life with family responsibilities. Paramahansa Yogananda quotes of John Ruskin, we take a closer look at th
Autobiography Chapter 23, Part 4: Dear Guruji, you inspire me because...
Title: Autobiography Chapter 23, Part 4: Dear Guruji, you inspire me because... Description: This episode covers on the last part of chapter 23 from: " The second instruction on the sheet read...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: As Mukunda answers the easiest of exam questions (how his Guru inspired him), we share how we would answer that critical question on guru-disciple relationshi
Autobiography Chapter 23, Part 3: Brother Sun, Sister Moon
This episode covers the next part of chapter 23 from: " Thinking over the examination in English literature, I realized...” to “...I could not have passed the Bengali examination.” Summary: As Mukunda expounds spiritual and educational themes, we share our own exam experiences, readings about divine intervention, and the importance of following intuition and guidance from gurus. Mukunda and
Autobiography Chapter 23, Part 2: Follow the guru
This episode covers the next part of chapter 23 from: "One night about eleven o’clock, as I was putting on my shoes in preparation...” to “... which had been arranged by the faculty of Calcutta University.” Summary: This section of the book explores the tug of war between spiritual pursuit and academic exams through Mukunda's experiences. We share personal reflections about exams and di
Autobiography Chapter 23, Part 1: “Mad Monk” Yogananda
This episode covers the start of chapter 23 to: "...I scarcely noticed when darkness changed into dawn.” Summary: The beginning of Chapter 23 explores the themes of spirituality, education, and personal growth through life’s varied experiences. We examined the various teaching methods throughout the world, cultural differences in perceptions toward education, and the balance between academic
Autobiography Chapter 22, Part 3: The Divinest of Romances
This episode covers the last part of chapter 22 from: "‘You little fool,’ my brother-in-law blurted out...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: We use’s Satish’s excellent life to focus on our own transformative experiences, divine interventions, and cultural perspectives on spirituality and death. Paramahansa Yogananda’s teachings encourage us to explore the related themes such as the power
Autobiography Chapter 22, Part 2: Who is in my temple
This episode covers the next part of chapter 22 from: "Reluctantly I opened my eyes, and saw that the temple doors...” to “...It was one o’clock; the divine vision had lasted an hour.” Summary: The Indian temple customs surrounding the lunchtime closure have a varied and fascinating history. With Samadhi being the ultimate form of escapism, we examine the lesser forms utilised today by the ideal
Autobiography Chapter 22, Part 1: Yogananda’s guide to family inspiration
This episode covers the start of chapter 22 to: "...a devout Christian sees Jesus; a Hindu beholds Krishna, or the Goddess Kali, or an expanding Light if his worship takes an impersonal turn.” Summary: As we start this chapter we reflect on its intriguing title and why Paramahansa Yogananda included it in the book. Guruji’s expert handling of religiously critical family members leaves much f
Autobiography Chapter 21, Part 4: Asoka, Akbar and the divine mercy
This episode covers the large footnote at the last part of chapter 21 from: " Only a Self-realized master can transfer his life force or convey...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: We review the ways in which self-realized masters can transfer life force via the yogic methods as well as devotion and the importance of the devotee maintaining physical health for spiritual progress. They exa
Autobiography Chapter 21, Part 3: The Christlike ways of Sri Yukteswar
This episode covers the large footnote at the next part of chapter 21 from: "In Kashmir a large number of the people, world-famed for their beauty...” to “... receive the omnipresent consciousness or Holy Ghost that later descended upon them.” Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda touches on the various complexions of Indians - we look at the fascinating modern scientific research in this field tha
Autobiography Chapter 21, Part 2: The best sites for a Divine Gypsy
This episode covers the large footnote at the next part of chapter 21 from: "We continued on the labyrinthine way, delighting in views of rivers...” to “...mirrored in underground waters, present a glimpse of other worlds as fancied by man.” Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda's journey through Kashmir is described in glorious detail – the beautiful landscapes, equine pastimes and comparisons
Autobiography Chapter 21, Part 1: Don’t smoke and lie
This episode covers the large footnote at the first part of chapter 21 to : "... Auddy had not carried any cigarettes from Calcutta.” Summary: We start by describing our expectations from chapter 21. Mukunda described in beautiful detail the beginning elements of the trip with Sri Yukteswar and 4 other disciples. As ever, there are multiple life lessons during the mundane aspects of their jo
Autobiography Chapter 20, Part 4: Parvati Shankari
This episode covers the large footnote at the end of chapter 20. Summary: A footnote dedicated to the divine mother in the form Parvati, her consort Shiva and his numerous exalted devotees. Why does Paramahansa Yogananda hint at the significance of these being rather than stating it clearly for us? We share our personal experiences and insights on Kailash, the types of pilgrims it attracts and s
Autobiography Chapter 20, Part 3: Sri Yukteswar finally exposes his hand
This episode covers the last part of chapter 20 from: “Getting up from my blanket seat, I staggered suddenly...” to the end of the chapter (excluding the footnote). Summary: The most pertinent themes of this section of the book is surrendering to the Guru (Sri Yukteswar) and the importance of faith and trust in God for divine protection and healing. We also research additional content from the Par
Autobiography Chapter 20, Part 2: Sri Yukteswar’s subtle influencing hand
This episode covers the next part of chapter 20 from: “I soon reached the schoolmaster’s house...” to “....please serve Mukunda’s food. His train leaves soon.” Summary: Mukunda (Paramahansa Yogananda) is determined to go to Kashmir despite no-cooperation from his everyone in his life! We ponder the reasons behind a sudden change in Behari's behaviour when Kashmir was mentioned, uncle Sarada Gh
Autobiography Chapter 20, Part 1: Sri Yukteswar’s art of diplomacy
This episode covers the first part of chapter 20 to “...My guru silently resumed his walk;” Summary: As Mukunda uses his nous to make his trip to Kashmir happen, Sri Yukteswar does everything he can to politely postpone it – almost as if he knew what was about to happen! We explore the themes of aligning our plans with divine will, the hidden protection behind not getting what you want, and the i
Autobiography Chapter 19, Part 3: Sri Yukteswar’s kindergarten for gifted boys and girls
This episode covers the last part of chapter 19 from: “A crestfallen Dijen soon entered the room...” to the end of the chapter. Summary: The highlights of the end of the chapter is the subtle reference to the Bible passage where Jesus walks on water and Peter attempts to join him, as discussed in Paramahansa Yogananda’s epic work The Second Coming of Christ. Was Sri Yukteswar Jesus Christ in this
Autobiography Chapter 19, Part 2: The secrets of teleportation
This episode covers the next part of chapter 19 from: “As the room was rather dark, I moved nearer to a window...” to “...I had not been the victim of a hallucination.” Summary: Reva joins us as we break down the dazzling appearance of Sri Yukteswar to an awe-stricken Mukunda (Paramahansa Yogananda). Guruji provides infinitesimal detail about this divine experience, and we hypothesise why Sri Yukt
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