Burning Spine Chronicles: Meditating in Mr. Roy Eugene Davis's Armchair

Many lineages today do not fully embrace the lineages of Yogananda in the West. Some of us have experienced not only the techniques taught by Yogananda but also those passed down from Lahiri Baba’s lineages. While Yogananda simplified some of the techniques, they remain powerful and effective. Like in the martial arts tradition, what truly matters is the dedication and sincerity of the practitioner.

I must admit, I had my doubts about Mr. Davis. I did not witness any siddhis or extraordinary signs, only a profound thoughtlessness in his presence.

He was a great gentleman, with a sharp perception and a cristal clear intelect.

Once, I was invited by Mr. Davis to the CSA headquarters to do a short personal retreat for a week. I met him a few times there. In the beginning, I had many questions—especially about shaktipat, the transmission of spiritual energy and consciousness.

After our initial one-on-one meeting, I was given one of five houses for my stay, where I had everything I needed. I began practicing, but initially, I could only sit for 30 to 50 minutes per session. It was an incredible discovery that six to eight hours of daily practice was possible—if one were free from distractions, duties, and had the right environment.

After just three months of praticing, my little ego was happy; I told myself, “I’m doing just fine,” with pride—pffff.

One day, I wondered what it would be like to sit on Mr. Davis’s armchair in the big hall and meditate there. Would I feel his energy? I went when no one was around—the room was dark. I sat on the armchair and started practicing Kriya Pranayama.

About 20 minutes later, my spine burned fiercely. I tried to continue, but the burning was overwhelming. I gave up, yet felt fascinated and joyful—I knew I had received his energy in my spine. I went back to the house, made myself tea, cooked a meal, and went to sleep.

My spine was on fire! I couldn’t sleep or practice anything. Kriya Pranayama was out of the question. I took a cold shower, which helped briefly—and then the burning returned.

I sat with a small fan behind my spine and read until morning. By 5 a.m., the burning finally went away, and I slept for two hours. When I woke up, everything was fine.

I was amazed—such experiences do exist. Even as a skeptic and a pragmatic man, I couldn’t deny it.

A day later, I met Mr. Davis again. He clarified many things for me about the practice, the traditions, and the techniques. I told him about my armchair experience; he only smiled and said nothing. When he left, he closed the door behind him, then opened it again saying, “Michael, by the way, you may sit on my chair and meditate. Haha.”

I was incredibly happy. Experiences like this inspire deep trust in the path and the masters.

Words, pictures, videos—they only raise more questions. Direct realization is always the key.

I share these memories for modern people—the scrollers, the nonbelievers. I was one of them!

These experiences do exist. Realized teachers do exist. Do not dare to doubt on yourself! You can do it if you truly want.

Blessings,
Michael