There is a documented exchange between Paramahansa Yogananda and a potential disciple. In the film "Awake," a devotee recounts a conversation where Yogananda inquired about the man's habits:
Yogananda: "Do you smoke cigarettes?"
Man: "Yes."
Yogananda: "You can do that."
Yogananda: "Do you drink alcohol?"
Man: "Yes."
Yogananda: "You can do that."
Yogananda: "Do you have relations with the opposite sex?"
Man: "Yes."
Yogananda: "You can do that."
Yogananda then added, "But you may find that you do not want to do these things so much anymore."
This approach reflects Yogananda's understanding that as individuals deepen their spiritual practice, certain habits may naturally lose their appeal. By focusing on spiritual growth rather than imposing strict prohibitions, he acknowledged that personal transformation often leads to the voluntary shedding of behaviors that no longer serve one's higher purpose.
This perspective aligns with the experiences of many practitioners who, upon immersing themselves in meditation and self-realization techniques, find that desires for substances like cigarettes or alcohol diminish over time. For instance, a devotee recounted how, through dedicated practice, smoking "just sort of gave me up," highlighting the transformative power of spiritual discipline.
Yogananda emphasized that true spiritual progress is marked by an inner transformation where lower desires are replaced by higher aspirations. He taught that by cultivating a deep connection with the divine, individuals naturally outgrow habits that impede their spiritual journey.
In essence, Yogananda's message was one of compassion and understanding, encouraging seekers to embark on their spiritual path without fear of judgment. He trusted that sincere practice would lead to the natural cessation of detrimental habits, allowing the soul to ascend toward its ultimate goal of self-realization.