There are 2 sessions of Kriya Prep each year. In 2026, the first group started September of 2025 and will take initiation in July 2026. The second group started the Art and Science of Raja Yoga in February and will take Kriya initiation in November 2026.
Students should plan to meet every Thursday from 7–9pm until initiation. During this preparation period, they will:
- Learn and practice several techniques, including Hong-Sau, Aum, and the Energization Exercises
- Take a vow of discipleship to Yogananda and the Self-Realization line of gurus
- Study the lives of Yogananda’s foremost disciples
- Establish and maintain a daily meditation practice
Interested in Kriya Yoga?
Join us for our free class, “What is Kriya Yoga?” offered in person at the Ananda Blue Lotus Temple or via Zoom, September 3rd, 2026.
Kriya Preparation Schedule (2026)
🔹 For students starting in September and initiating in July
Kriya Yoga Preparation #2: (April 9 – July 16 [Class on May 26 instead of May 28, no class June 25th, Saturday Day Retreat July 11]) Students will deepen their practice of the techniques they’ve been taught while studying the lives of Yogananda’s disciples.
🔹 For students starting in January and initiating in November
1. The Art and Science of Raja Yoga (3-month course) — (February – May) All Kriya Preparation students must complete this course first. Learn the Hong-Sau meditation technique, yogic lifestyle and core philosophy. Offered at the Blue Lotus Temple in Bothell and online. $395. 6pm-9:15pm.
2. Introduction to Self-Realization: (May 14) Ananda Minister Murali will describe the essence of Self-Realization and prepare students for what to expect if they continue on this path. Free. Online or in person at Blue Lotus Temple Bothell.
Steps 3-6 are offered at the Ananda Community in Lynnwood or online via Zoom. Every Thursday, 7-9pm PST.
3. Path of Self-Realization: (May 21 – June 11 [Class on Tuesday May 26 instead of Thursday the 28th]) This class will cover the Self-Realization path and life style. Students will learn Paramhansa Yogananda’s Energization exercises, and read from The Essence of Self-Realization. $80.
4. Exploring Discipleship: (June 18 – July 16 [no class June 25]) Explore what it means to be a disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda and take discipleship vows before proceeding to the next steps. Free
5. Kriya Yoga Preparation #1: (July 23 – August 13) Integrating Raja Yoga into daily life, students will learn additional preparatory techniques. $115.
6. Kriya Yoga Preparation #2: (August 20 – November 12) Students will read three books with different Ananda ministers and teachers. The books are Autobiography of a Yogi, The New Path, and Conversations With Yogananda. $200.