Everything You Want to Know About Self-Realization Fellowship

In a world that constantly pulls our attention outward—toward career pursuits, social media, possessions, and achievements—many of us are quietly yearning for something deeper. Beneath the noise of modern life, there’s a soft voice within that whispers of something more eternal and fulfilling: the journey to understand who we truly are. This is the heart of the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF), a spiritual organization founded by Paramahansa Yogananda that has helped millions connect with their inner divinity.

Whether you’re a lifelong seeker or new to the path of inner transformation, this guide offers a comprehensive look into what the Self-Realization Fellowship is, its teachings, practices, history, and how it may profoundly impact your life.

---

What Is Self-Realization Fellowship?

Self-Realization Fellowship is a global spiritual organization founded in 1920 by Paramahansa Yogananda, the author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi. SRF’s mission is to disseminate his teachings on the ancient science of Kriya Yoga and to foster greater spiritual understanding and unity among all people.

But beyond the formal mission, SRF serves as a sanctuary for those seeking answers to life’s most profound questions: Who am I? Why am I here? How can I experience peace, love, and God?

At its core, SRF teaches that self-realization—the direct experience of one's soul and unity with the Divine—is not only possible but is the true purpose of life.

---

The Vision of Paramahansa Yogananda

To understand SRF, we must first appreciate the depth and legacy of its founder. Paramahansa Yogananda was born in India in 1893 and was trained in the ancient tradition of yoga by his guru Swami Sri Yukteswar. His life's mission was divinely ordained: to bring the spiritual wisdom of the East to the West.

When he arrived in America in 1920, it was during a time when Eastern philosophies were largely unfamiliar and often misunderstood. Yet, through his clarity, charisma, and unwavering devotion, Yogananda was able to establish a spiritual bridge between East and West. He spoke not of religion in a narrow sense, but of universal truths that transcend dogma and denomination.

His message was simple but powerful: "The soul's greatest duty is to realize its divine nature."

---

Core Teachings of Self-Realization Fellowship

Self-Realization Fellowship is grounded in universal spiritual principles. While it draws deeply from the yogic tradition, it welcomes seekers of all backgrounds, faiths, and philosophies. Here are some of the essential teachings:

1. God Is Within You

One of SRF’s foundational teachings is that God is not distant or separate from us but dwells within every soul. Self-realization means awakening to this truth—not intellectually, but through direct personal experience.

2. Kriya Yoga Is a Sacred Path to Liberation

Kriya Yoga, as taught by SRF, is a highly advanced spiritual technique that accelerates spiritual growth. It enables the practitioner to quiet the mind, regulate the breath, and awaken the divine energy (kundalini) that leads to union with God.

3. Meditation Is the Highest Form of Prayer

Daily meditation is emphasized as the cornerstone of spiritual life. It is through stillness and inner communion that the soul can perceive divine realities.

4. Unity of All Religions

SRF teaches that all true religions are pathways to the same divine goal. Rather than promote one dogma over another, SRF encourages mutual respect, love, and understanding among all spiritual paths.

5. Balanced Living

Yogananda taught the importance of balancing the spiritual and material aspects of life. He emphasized ethical living, health, positive thinking, and service to others as crucial components of self-realization.

---

The Science of Kriya Yoga

Kriya Yoga is often referred to as the "jet airplane route to God." It is an ancient technique of energy and breath control that works directly with the life force (prana) in the body. The practice allows the yogi to withdraw energy and consciousness from the senses and redirect it inward—toward the higher centers of awareness in the spine and brain.

In practical terms, Kriya Yoga helps to:

• Calm the mind and nervous system.

• Dissolve mental and emotional patterns.

• Awaken higher states of consciousness.

• Deepen spiritual insight and intuition.

Kriya is not given lightly. It is a sacred initiation that is only available to students who have studied the SRF teachings and demonstrated commitment through regular practice.

---

The SRF Lessons

One of the most unique offerings from SRF is its home-study course called the SRF Lessons. These comprehensive weekly lessons—written by Yogananda himself—are a step-by-step guide to spiritual growth.

The lessons include:

• Philosophy of yoga and meditation.

• Scientific techniques for concentration and inner peace.

• Health and healing through will power and prana.

• Devotion and love as transformative forces.

• The Kriya Yoga technique (available after a period of preparation).

The Lessons are not just theory. They are living transmissions, offering direct insights from a realized master. Thousands have attested to their life-changing impact.

---

SRF Temples, Centers, and Retreats

For those who wish to deepen their connection with the teachings and the SRF community, there are numerous temples, meditation centers, and retreat facilities worldwide.

SRF Temples

Temples offer regular services, group meditations, spiritual readings, and commemorative events. These sacred spaces are sanctuaries of peace and provide an opportunity for seekers to immerse themselves in spiritual vibrations.

Meditation Centers and Groups

These smaller gatherings are often held in local communities and homes. They are led by dedicated SRF members and are ideal for those who may not live near a temple.

Retreat Centers

For a deeper immersion, SRF operates several retreat centers including:

• Lake Shrine (Los Angeles)

• Encinitas Hermitage and Retreat

• Mother Center (Mount Washington, Los Angeles)

These retreats offer solitude, guided meditations, spiritual discourses, and a profound atmosphere for reflection and renewal.

---

A Path for the Modern World

What makes Self-Realization Fellowship uniquely powerful is how it speaks to the needs of the modern seeker. You don’t have to become a monk, renounce the world, or travel to the Himalayas to walk this path. Instead, SRF teaches you to:

• Find God in daily life.

• Meditate in the morning, but go to work with awareness.

• Serve your family and society with love.

• See your job, your challenges, your joys as part of the spiritual journey.

In a time when stress, distraction, and anxiety are rampant, SRF offers timeless tools to navigate life with calmness, clarity, and joy.

---

Testimonials: Lives Transformed

Countless people from around the world have experienced radical transformation through SRF. From CEOs and artists to scientists and homemakers, the teachings of Yogananda resonate across all walks of life.

Here are just a few common experiences reported by practitioners:

• Inner peace amidst external chaos.

• Freedom from addiction, anxiety, or depression.

• Healing in relationships and emotional wounds.

• Awakened purpose and spiritual direction.

• Deep, abiding joy that does not depend on circumstances.

These changes don’t come from blind belief, but from the practical, step-by-step application of the SRF teachings.

---

The Role of the Guru

A central tenet of SRF is the sacred guru-disciple relationship. Yogananda often said, "God is the guru; the true guru is one who is in tune with God." He did not claim personal credit for the teachings, but served as a channel for divine truth.

In the SRF tradition, Yogananda is part of a revered spiritual lineage that includes:

• Mahavatar Babaji

• Lahiri Mahasaya

• Swami Sri Yukteswar

Through this unbroken chain of realized masters, the Kriya Yoga teachings have been preserved and passed down to the world.

Yogananda continues to guide his devotees today—not in bodily form, but through his teachings, presence, and inner communion.

---

Getting Started with Self-Realization Fellowship

If your heart feels stirred by the message of SRF, here are simple steps to begin your journey:

1. Read Autobiography of a Yogi

This spiritual classic is often the gateway to SRF for millions. It’s not just a biography, but a spiritual manual that unveils a mystical world of saints, miracles, and divine truths.

2. Enroll in the SRF Lessons

You can sign up through the SRF website to receive the weekly lessons and begin your training in meditation, philosophy, and Kriya Yoga.

3. Start a Daily Meditation Practice

Even 10–15 minutes of daily meditation can begin to change your inner landscape. SRF provides guided meditations, techniques, and support materials to help you get started.

4. Visit a Local Center or Temple

If possible, attend an SRF service or retreat. The group energy and spiritual support can be deeply uplifting.

5. Live the Teachings

Apply the principles in your everyday life. Practice kindness, seek truth, forgive often, serve selflessly, and remain inwardly anchored to God.

---

Final Thoughts: The Journey Within

The path of Self-Realization is not easy—but it is glorious. It asks us to move beyond the surface of life and dive deep into the soul’s eternal waters. It requires discipline, devotion, and courage. But the rewards are immeasurable.

In the words of Paramahansa Yogananda:

"Self-realization is the knowing—in body, mind, and soul—that you are one with the omnipresence of God… and that you do not have to pray that it come to you, that you are not merely a beggar crying for it, but that you are already in possession of it."

The Self-Realization Fellowship is more than an organization—it is a doorway. A sacred invitation to remember who you are, why you’re here, and how you can return to the Divine.

If you are ready to embark on this journey, know that you are not alone. A global spiritual family walks beside you, and a great master gently guides you from within.

Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.