Paramahansa Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi arrived like a breath of fresh air, introducing Kriya Yoga’s precise breathing-and-energy techniques to a Western audience hungry for more than just gym-style workouts. Its blend of captivating personal stories—encounters with Gandhi, demonstrations of spiritual healing—helped shift the focus from mere postures to a deeper inner journey.

• Popularization of meditation: Detailed guidance on pranayama and mantra repetition transformed meditation from an exotic curiosity into a daily wellness staple. Today’s leading apps echo Yogananda’s methods, proving that ancient wisdom can mesh seamlessly with 21st-century habits.

• East-meets-West bridge: The memoir cracked open the door for teachers like Deepak Chopra, Sharon Salzberg and Eckhart Tolle. Retreats in Bali, Costa Rica and beyond often follow Yogananda’s blueprint, blending tropical vistas with soul-stirring Kriya sessions.

• Cultural touchstone: Annual celebrations of his Mahasamadhi, accompanied by bhajans and communal meditation, show the book’s evolution into a living tradition. Public figures—from Russell Brand to Katy Perry—have cited its influence when talking about their morning practices.

• Beyond the mat: Yoga Alliance trainings increasingly weave Yogananda’s teachings into their curricula, reminding instructors that true “union” spans mind, body and Spirit. Class sequences now often begin with a short seated meditation, a nod to his insistence on inner stillness before movement.

In an era where burnout has become almost cliché, Autobiography of a Yogi offers a timely breadcrumb trail back to calm, purpose and self-realization. Its ripple effect still shapes how millions roll out their mats, turn inward and discover that yoga isn’t just exercise—it’s an art of living.