This blog includes articles relating to the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda and Self-Realization Fellowship, a religious organization started by Paramahansa Yogananda in 1920, with a focus on historical context and critical thinking.

What is Self-Realization Fellowship?

Self-Realization Fellowship is the organization founded by Paramahansa Yogananda, a Swami from India who came to America in 1920 to teach Yoga philosophy. SRF teaches meditation through a series of mail-order / online lessons. They have meditation groups and centers around the world. Their sister organization in India is called Yogoda Satsanga Society.

Yogananda.org – Self-Realization Fellowship Website

Why Write about SRF?

I’ve found that some additional historical information has been helpful for understanding and putting into context Yogananda’s writings, and was not able to find anyone else writing about this topic.

What is critical thinking?

In my website description I mention critical thinking. Critical thinking is not the same thing as negative thinking or personal criticism. I equate critical thinking with “asking intelligent questions”, and see it as a method to draw closer to the truth.

Merriam Webster gives this definition of critical thinking:

“the act or practice of thinking critically (as by applying reason and questioning assumptions) in order to solve problems, evaluate information, discern biases, etc.”