What is Siddha Yoga

Siddha Yoga is a spiritual group teaching traditional Hindu or yogic practices both in India and in the West. The group has an organizational foundation by the name of SYDA Foundation. Central to its teaching is the notion of the Guru Principle or ‘True Guru’. The guru who is the latest in the lineage of teachers of this style of yoga is a woman, Gurumayi Chidvilasananda (born Malti Shetty, June 24, 1955). The group has its headquarters at a large country ashram composed of several former resort hotels in South Fallsburg, New York State. Its original home remains the ashram at Ganeshpuri in Maharashtra, India.

The Guru is an enlightened human being who, by a mixture of spiritual work and grace from the preceding Guru, has achieved full realization of the Divine in their lifetime.

Students are asked to see the presence of God within each person they meet. One of the Yoga's core teachings is Muktananda's aphorism, "See God in each other."

Students receive teaching on the nature of the spiritual journey and overcoming obstacles. Satsang (Sanskrit for "Keeping the company of the truth") are group meetings or programs held at the centers or ashrams. Talks and teachings may be delivered by a local teacher, by a Swami (monk), or by the Guru. Gurumayi also tours and gives programs at various centers and ashrams around the world, as well as public programs outside the Yoga facilities.

Students practice silent meditation with attention focused on a mantra or on the flow of breath.

Students also practice group chanting. On holidays or special occasions chanting sometimes continues for hours or even days. This can induce trance like and ecstatic experiences.

Students also practice seva (selfless service or Karma Yoga). They believe that seva is indispensible for making progress towards enlightenment. Much of the organization is run on the work donated free by its followers.