Our Story
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.
You can expand your sense of harmony and gain an increased sense of God’s active presence in your life through ancient and effective techniques including meditation, Kriya Yoga, spiritually oriented Hatha Yoga, community, and divine friendship.
Ananda was founded in 1969 by Yogananda’s direct disciple, Swami Kriyananda, who passed away in 2013. Swami Kriyananda’s spiritual successor is Nayaswami Jyotish who along with his wife, Nayaswami Devi, serves as Ananda’s spiritual director.
All Are Welcome – Ananda’s primary goal is to help people achieve Self-realization, a state of consciousness that comes through shedding all outward self-definitions. Ananda has, therefore, created communities and centers that welcome all sincere seekers regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability. We are committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming environment for everyone to pursue the search for God.
