Why Meditate?
Meditation has been taught around the world for thousands of years, and has many variations. In daily life, energy flows out from the brain to the body, from the mind to the senses. Meditation offers the chance to regain control of restless energy and direct it back to the brain; to withdraw from the outside world and interiorize ourselves in the inner self. This redirection of energy helps the meditator to cultivate the higher faculties of the human mind: calmness, willpower, concentration, and even love.
Meditation improves all aspects of life – relationships, career, physical and mental health are all improved by developing inner calmness. Scientists and doctors attest to its benefits, and now many sports teams, corporate executives, and celebrities practice some form of meditation.
The highest purpose of meditation, however, is to “know thyself.”
Meditation Courses
List of events in Photo View
How to Have Courage, Calmness & Confidence
Led by Ananda meditation teachers Robyn Mattis and Amy Hinchcliffe. Cost $45 includes program, materials, and coffee & baked treats.
Introduction to Meditation Workshop
Meditation is the art of stillness, tranquility, and clear perception. Learn the tools which will help you find joy and peace even in the midst of life’s challenges.
What is Kriya Yoga?
Kriya Yoga is an ancient meditation technique of energy and breath control (Pranayama). According to Paramhansa Yogananda, the author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, Kriya Yoga is the most effective technique available to mankind to reach the goal of Yoga: union with God. More than just a technique, Kriya Yoga includes the practices and attitudes that inform the rest of our life.
Meditation for Starters | Move Beyond the App! |
Have you tried meditating with an App but
are struggling with inconsistency in your practice? This meditation class offers the
guidance and support you need!
Meditation for Starters | Move Beyond the App! |
ONLINE only! Have you tried meditating with an App but are struggling with inconsistency in your practice? This meditation class offers the
guidance and support you need!
Art and Science of Raja Yoga
Course in Meditation
An Eight Week Meditation Course offered In-person and Online Bring more peace, deeper relaxation, and focused concentration into every area of your life. Whether a beginning or experienced meditator, take this in-depth Meditation class to develop and deepen your daily meditation practice and connect with your higher Self. February 21 - April 11, 2026 on Saturdays from 10:30am - 12:00pm ... Read More
Deepen Your Meditation
This class has two parts. A yoga class at 10am, and a meditation portion at 11:30. Prerequisite: any Ananda meditation class (including Raja, Course in Meditation, Learn to Meditate and Meditation for Starters). We invite graduates of the meditation classes to deepen your meditation practice with renewed inspiration, insights into refinements and variations on meditation practices, and a sharing with ... Read More
Why Learn Meditation at Ananda?
Ananda follows the teachings of the great Indian guru Paramhansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi. Yogananda’s book, now world famous, discussed many details of his life and his instructive encounters with various saints and swamis. Yogananda’s mission was to spread the teachings of ancient India in the west, and to show the similarities between eastern and western religious philosophies.
Following Yogananda’s example, Ananda teaches meditation as a way of life, not simply as a set of techniques. More than just breath-work or mindfulness, the goal of meditation is to put the meditator in touch with their own divinity. Ananda offers the support and resources for aspiring yogis to deepen their practice in the form of intentional communities where aspiring yogis can live, and classes on meditation technique and the ideal lifestyle of a yogi.
While Ananda has deep roots in spirituality, all are welcome from any or no faith. Meditation is for everyone, and there is a way to make it work in everyone’s life. Wherever you are, whatever you do, you can incorporate meditation into your daily life and have results that are life transforming.
Related Courses
The Art & Science of Raja Yoga
Ananda most comprehensive and popular course. An in-depth 12-week course in yoga, meditation and the Eight-Fold path.
The Path of Kriya Yoga
Kriya Yoga is an ancient meditation technique brought to the west by Paramhansa Yogananda, by which we can have a direct intuitive experience of God as our own true Self.
"The soul loves to meditate, for in contact with the Spirit lies its greatest joy." Paramhansa Yogananda