Beliefs
Sahaja Yogis respect and accept people from all religions and believe the state achieved through self-realization makes the truth behind all religions apparent. Sahaja Yoga beliefs are seen as a re-discovered ancient knowledge which should be treated respectfully and scientifically, like a hypothesis and if found by experiments as truth, should be accepted. The technique itself is said to be already researched and does not require further development. Sahaja Yoga is held to be different from other yoga/meditations because it begins with self-realization through kundalini awakening rather than as a result of performing kriya techniques or asanas. This spontaneous awakening is said to be made possible by the presence of Shri Mataji herself, or even her photo. The hypothesis is that the experience of self-realization can be individually verified. It is believed that when the kundalini energy of an individual is awakened, he/she gets connected with the all pervading power and is in union with God.
Students are encouraged to experience and test the meditation for themselves rather than proceeding blindly or learning from a book. Advanced concepts are not generally taught until a beginner is understood to have gained enough knowledge of their own subtle system through actual experience. Without direct experience of the meditation, some people have reported difficulties understanding or proceeding to the more advanced material. Sociologist, Judith Coney, for example, reported facing a challenge in getting behind what she called "the public facade". She described Sahaja Yogis as adopting a low profile with uncommitted individuals to avoid unnecessary conflict.
Sahaja Yoga also states that spreading Sahaja Yoga techniques should be free for everyone. Sahaja Yoga members that pay for the events (room booking or stalls at fairs) usually do so through their own contributions.
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