Effective Date: May 18, 2025
This Cookie Policy explains how Wisdom of Yogananda (“we,” “us,” or “our”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on https://wisdomofyogananda.com (the “Site”). By continuing to browse or use our Site, you consent to the use of cookies as described below. If you do not agree, you can adjust your browser settings or opt out as detailed in Section 8.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They help the site recognize your device, remember your preferences, and provide you with a more personalized experience. Cookies can be “session” (deleted when you close your browser) or “persistent” (remain until they expire or are deleted).
2. Types of Cookies We Use
We categorize our cookies into four main types:
| Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Essential Cookies | Necessary for the Site to function. Enable core features such as page navigation, security, and access to protected areas. |
| Performance Cookies | Collect anonymous data on how visitors use the Site (e.g., which pages are most popular, error messages). Helps us improve Site speed and usability. |
| Functional Cookies | Remember your preferences (language, font size, layout) to enhance your experience on return visits. |
| Advertising Cookies | Track your browsing across websites to deliver relevant ads and measure ad performance (used by Google AdSense, Facebook Pixel, etc.). |
3. Specific Cookies in Use
Below is an illustrative list of cookies you may encounter on our Site:
3.1 First-Party Cookies (Set by wisdomofyogananda.com)
| Cookie Name | Type | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
cookie_consent | Persistent | 1 year | Records your acceptance of this Cookie Policy. |
site_lang | Persistent | 6 months | Remembers your chosen language preference. |
session_id | Session | Browser session | Ensures secure login sessions and form submissions. |
3.2 Third-Party Cookies
| Provider | Cookie Name | Type | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | _ga, _gid | Persistent | 2 years (_ga); 24 hours (_gid) | Analyzes visitor behavior; distinguishes unique users. |
| Google Analytics | _gat | Session | 1 minute | Throttles request rate to improve site performance. |
| Google AdSense | IDE, DSID | Persistent | Up to 2 years | Delivers and measures the performance of personalized ads. |
| Facebook Pixel | _fbp | Persistent | 3 months | Tracks actions visitors take on the Site to measure ad effectiveness. |
| YouTube Embedded | VISITOR_INFO1_LIVE | Persistent | 6 months | Measures bandwidth to optimize embedded video playback quality. |
4. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies to:
- Authenticate registered users and maintain secure sessions.
- Remember your site preferences (language, font size, layout).
- Analyze how you interact with our content for continuous improvement.
- Deliver relevant advertising and measure ad campaign performance.
- Protect the security and integrity of our Site.
5. Legal Basis for Cookie Usage
- Consent: For non-essential cookies (performance, functional, advertising), we obtain your explicit consent via our cookie banner.
- Legitimate Interest: Essential cookies are necessary for the Site’s basic functions and do not require consent.
6. Managing and Disabling Cookies
Most browsers allow you to manage or disable cookies via their settings:
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data
- Firefox: Options > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data
- Safari (macOS): Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data
- Edge: Settings > Cookies and site permissions
You can also install browser add-ons such as the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on to block Google Analytics.
Note: Disabling cookies may affect Site functionality, preventing you from accessing certain features.
7. Your Choices and Opt-Out
- Cookie Banner: On your first visit, our banner lets you accept all cookies or customize your preferences. You can revisit preferences by clicking the “Cookie Settings” link in the Site footer.
- Opt-Out Links:
- Google Ad Settings: https://adssettings.google.com
- Facebook Ad Preferences: https://www.facebook.com/settings?tab=ads
8. Changes to This Cookie Policy
We may update this policy to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, or our practices. When we do, we will revise the Effective Date at the top. We encourage you to review this page regularly for updates.
9. Additional Information
For more details on how we handle your personal data, please see our Privacy Policy. For any questions, concerns, or requests regarding cookies, email us at privacy@wisdomofyogananda.com.
Thank you for visiting Wisdom of Yogananda. We value your privacy and strive to make your experience both enjoyable and transparent.