Sahaja Yoga is different from the other types of Yoga because it begins with Self-realization instead of this being the unobtainable dream of a distant goal. 

Traditionally, a guru used to have only a handful of disciples and look after their growth for a lifetime, guiding their inner cleansing day by day. Few souls were able to achieve Self-realization despite many years of passing through various stages (e.g. yama, niyama, breathing techniques and postures). For those few souls, it was like trying to cleanse a completely obscure room without having any light. 

In these modern times that Shri Mataji calls the Blossom Times because of the state achieved by human consciousness collectively, She has devised a method by which this happening (Self-realization) is achieved spontaneously (Sahaja), without any effort. A little light is then lit within us (a new dimension becomes available to our awareness) and through Sahaja Yoga meditation we can then grow much faster, without having to go through any penances, while living normal lives amidst our own families and societies. 

This is because, in the light of the new awareness, we become our own gurus, our own guides. After Self-realization, we are able to feel a gentle, cool breeze flowing above the head and also from the centre of our palms. We can feel on our fingertips any blockages in our energy centres and are able to clear them using this energy, Kundalini, which has been awakened in us. Moreover, we become collectively conscious, i.e. we can feel others’ centres and cure their problems as well. The fact that we are all part and parcel of the Whole becomes a tangible reality in our day-to-day lives. 

Becoming one with the pure Spirit in us is the ultimate goal of human life, described in various terms in all religions and spiritual traditions of the world. Self-realization is the first step: once this connection is initially established, it needs to be nourished with our attention and regular meditation, enabling us to find out why we are here and to ultimately fulfil the destiny of our lives. 

If you would like to have the experience of Self-realisation, you can contact a Sahaja Yoga centre near where you live. Programs are always free, and you will be able to experience the benefits such as peace of mind, improved health and inner cleansing.