Meditation for Well-being
June 12 - 15, 2025
Description
This Yogic Meditation course introduces the basic guidelines and conditions for classical yogic meditation. There will be discussion on Why meditate? and the necessity to go to the transcendental level of existence to find true peace and happiness. Participants will study the mechanics of the mind and how to calm the mind and turn inward for Self-awareness. Learn to withdraw the senses and to take distance from the sensual world of objects which create desires, discontentment and restlessness in an endless pursuit of external happiness.
Learn techniques to improve concentration and reduce distractions for success in all endeavors in life. Learn relationship between posture, prana and thoughts and how to transition between the 5 states of mind. The goal is peace of mind. You will be introduced to the science of mantra healing using sacred sounds to nurture positive energy and connect with one’s own consciousness. You will practice yoga postures, yoga breathing and meditation twice per day, participate in daily Kirtan chanting sessions.
List of Topics
Asanas
- The twelve basic steady postures and meditative postures
- Flexibility of spine
- Increased flow of prana through asana practice
Pranayama
- Balancing breath to calm the mind and emotions
- Increase prana to control the mind
- Channel prana inward and upward
Raja Yoga
- Yamas: Ahimsa, Satya, Brahmacharya, Asteya, Aparigraha
- Niyamas: Saucha, Santosha, Tapas, Swadhyaya, Iswara-pranidhana
- How to reduce vrittis, Concentration
- Mechanics of the Mind
- How to see the truth beyond our mental projections
- Discussion on subconscious samskaras, karma and thought patterns
Daily Course Schedule
• 6:00am Satsang (Meditation, chanting, lecture)
• 8:00 – 10:00am Yoga Asana and Pranayama Class
• 10:00am Brunch
• 10:45am Karma Yoga
• 12:00 – 1:00pm Self-study and Personal Meditation Practice
• 1:00 – 2:30pm Meditation Workshop
• 4:00pm Yoga Asana and Pranayama Practice
• 6:00pm Dinner
• 7:30pm Satsang (Meditation, chanting, lecture)
Pre-requisite
There are no prerequisites other than a sincere desire to learn classical yoga.
Course Material
“Essentials of Yoga Practice & Philosophy” by Swami Sitaramananda
“Meditation Manual” by Swami Sitaramananda
Reference Materials
YouTube – Meditation in Daily Life with Swami Sitaramananda
YouTube – Why Meditate with Swami Sitaramananda
Article – Meditation guidance – how to meditate and not give up
Article – What is Yoga Meditation?