What is Ananda?
Ananda is a global movement based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda, who showed how everyone can realize God in their daily lives as a tangible, loving reality. Ananda was founded in 1968 by Yogananda’s direct disciple, Swami Kriyananda, widely recognized as one of the leading spiritual teachers in the world today.
Yogananda’s teachings embrace the truths that underlie all the great religions. People from all faiths and backgrounds are welcomed at Ananda. We invite you to join us at our temples, yoga retreats, meditation groups, and communities to experience the joy of your own being.
Whether you are seeking more peace in your life, or a deeper connection with God, Ananda offers support and friendship for your spiritual journey. The emphasis is on the individual quest for Self-realization, the unifying reality behind all spiritual traditions.
Universal truths
The basis of this teaching is universal. It is a state of mind: the consciousness of inner joy. It is a growing awareness of the presence of God, touching every aspect of our lives.
The teaching at Ananda encompasses both of Western and Eastern spiritual traditions, particularly the ancient, scientific practice of Raja Yoga from and the original, mystic teachings of Christ. This teaching was brought to America in the early 1920s by Paramhansa Yogananda author of the spiritual classic, Autobiography of a Yogi and is continued by Swami Kriyananda, the founder of Ananda.
In just a few weeks, you can experience the benefits of meditation in your life—inner peace, health, and spiritual awakening. Ananda is one of the oldest and largest centers for meditation training in the Sacramento area. People from every walk of life have learned to meditate in Ananda classes over the past 20 years. A 4-week class series is offered every month. Check our calendar for the next available class.
Meditation: Finding Inner Peace
Meditation is one of the most natural and rewarding of all human activities. It gives direct, intuitive experience of higher realities, and is the cornerstone of true spirituality. It also brings balance, rest, and a growing inner peace. While its highest and original purpose is to help us awaken our inner, spiritual nature, the benefits to body and mind.