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
Retreat for Calmness and Peace: for New Meditators
Meditation is the art of stillness, tranquility, and clear perception. It helps us find joy and peace even in the midst of life’s challenges. This half-day retreat is an invitation to slow down, turn inward, and refresh your spirit in a welcoming, supportive environment.We’ll begin with gentle stretches to relax the body, followed by a guided meditation incorporating chanting, breath ... Read More
Raja Yoga OPEN HOUSE!
Learn about the Raja Yoga course and meet the instructors: Murali Venkatrao, Nancy Callan and Kevin Hart.
Meditation for Starters Move Beyond the App! | ONLINE only
4 Wednesdays: August 6, 13, 20 & 27 at 7:00-8:00pm. ONLINE only using Zoom.If you’ve ever yearned to make meditation an enjoyable and integral part of yourday, this class is designed for you. Have you tried meditating with an App butare struggling with inconsistency in your practice? This meditation class offers theguidance and support you need!As you progress, you’ll notice ... Read More
Open House – Meditation Teacher Training
Join us for this information session to learn about the Meditation Teacher Training (MTT) beginning on Saturday, September 6th. You will have a chance to meet the instructors and ask questions about the training. Come in person or join online.Dates for MTT: 8 Saturdays from Sept 6 to Nov 22, 2025 at 10:30 am to 5:30 pm Pacific Time. Click ... Read More
Meditation for Starters | In Person Only Oct 1
4 Wednesdays: October 1, 8, 15 & 22 at 12:30-1:30pm. IN PERSON only at Blue Lotus TempleIf you’ve ever yearned to make meditation an enjoyable and integral part of yourday, this class is designed for you. Have you tried meditating with an App butare struggling with inconsistency in your practice? This meditation class offers theguidance and support you need!As you ... Read More
Meditation for Starters Move Beyond the App! | ONLINE only Oct-Nov
4 Wednesdays: October 30, November 6, 13, 20 at 7:00-8:00pm. ONLINE only using Zoom.If you’ve ever yearned to make meditation an enjoyable and integral part of yourday, this class is designed for you. Have you tried meditating with an App butare struggling with inconsistency in your practice? This meditation class offers theguidance and support you need!As you progress, you’ll notice ... 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