Special Services

About Meditation

MEDITATION SERVICE

In all meditation services, a leader guides the group through periods of silent meditation and prayer (about 40-45 min.), and periods of devotional chanting. During the last portion of the service, the group may pray for those who are in need of healing, and for world peace. The leader may also direct the group in practicing the healing technique as taught by Paramahansa Yogananda.
Please visit our Calendar of Services page to view upcomming group meditations and Weekly Meditations are held on Tuesday from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm and on Saturday from 6pm to 9pm.

DEVOTIONAL CHANTING

In every meditation service, devotional chants are used to direct the mind inward in one-pointed concentration. The words and music for the chants used in the services can be found in the books entitled Cosmic Chants. On the first Saturday of each month, the meditations feature devotional chanting with Indian musical instruments (known as Kirtan). Chanting with deep concentration and devotion draws the meditating devotee inward to the altar of God's presence.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MEDITATION

The techniques of meditation taught by Paramahansa Yogananda may be learned through the SRF lessons which are sent by mail for personal study from the Mother Center in Los Angeles, CA. You may pick-up a lesson application along with books entitled Undreamed-of Possibilities and Worldwide Prayer Circle from the foyer. You may also contact the SRF headquarters at: www.yogananda-srf.org or call 323.225.2471

Preparing for Meditation

Paramahansa Yogananda said, "Meditation is the ability to take the mind away from every object of distraction and put that freed attention upon God alone." Here are a few key points to achieve this state:

CORRECT POSTURE:

Sit with the spine straight, feet flat on the floor, shoulders slightly back, chest out, abdomen in and hands with palms upward resting at the juncture of the thighs and abdomen. The body is relaxed and motionless.

FOCUS EYES GENTLY UPWARD:

With eyes closed, or half open, focus the gaze gently at the point between the eyebrows (also known as the Christ Consciousness Center).

KEEP THOUGHTS FOCUSED ON GOD:

If as of yet, you know no definite techniques of meditation, silently talk to God in the language of your heart, by repeating a phrase such as, "Reveal Thyself", "I love Thee, Lord."

MEDITATING IN A GROUP:

We come together in silent fellowship to reinforce each other's efforts toward God-communion. You can do your part by asking, "What can I do to keep from distracting others?" Effective group meditation is possible if each person shares responsibility in creating an atmosphere of stillness.

Meditation Guidelines

BEFORE MEDITATION:

• Turn-off all electronic devices (cell phones, pagers, watch alarms).
• Arrive early enough so you can find a desired seat and also practice the Energization Exercises.
• If you have a cough or cold or a condition that creates restlessness or will disturb others, please meditate at home.
• If you know you will have to leave early, be sure to take a seat in the back of the chapel.
• Wear clothing that is made of soft fabrics that do not make noise. Nylon jackets and rain gear are usually noisy. Cotton, wool, polar fleece etc. are usually quiet fabrics.

DURING MEDITATION:

• Be as still as possible during silent periods.
• Please, only use the restrooms, or take a drink of water, stand or do gentle stretches during the chanting periods.
• Practice the meditation techniques so that they are inaudible to others.
• If arriving late, please do not enter during the periods of silence or prayer, but wait until a chant begins.
• Before entering the chapel take a seat in foyer or in the social room and pause to calm the mind and body. Preferably, enter/exit at the beginning of the chant.
• Whenever possible, try to attend the entire meditation service.