Two Saturday Hybrid Workshops, In-Person and via Zoom: Morning, “Walking the Path of Wellness: A Spiritual View of Disease” and “Rasayana: The Ayurvedic Practice of Rejuvenation” - July 29, 2023
2023-07-29 09:00 - 16:15 (America/Chicago)
“A WAVE OF WELLNESS IS HITTING THE MEDITATION CENTER THIS SUMMER.”
Two Saturday Hybrid Workshops, In-Person and via Zoom
with Cynthia and Gary Gran
July 29, 2023
at The Meditation Center
Click Here to Register
Register for the morning session, the morning session with lunch,
the afternoon session, both sessions with lunch, or both sessions without lunch.

Offered both in-person and via Zoom

Register for:
the morning session only ($30),

the morning session with lunch ($40),

the afternoon session only ($30),

both sessions without lunch($55),

or both sessions with lunch ($65)

Choose the option that fits your summer schedule.

Morning: 9:00 a.m.-Noon “Walking the Path of Wellness: A Spiritual View of Disease.”
Morning: 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. “Walking the Path of Wellness: A Spiritual View of Disease.” with lunch following the morning class and cooking demonstration
“Walking the Path of Wellness: A Spiritual View of Disease”
with Gary and Cynthia

Ayurveda offers us a holistic view of health and well-being that includes body, mind and spirit. In this workshop, we’ll delve into the View, the Path, and the Goal of wellness from the related wisdom traditions of Ayurveda, yoga, and Buddhism. We will cover:
· The four questions posed by Ayurveda, beginning with ‘what is disease?’
· The four answers advanced in Buddhism, known as the Four Noble Truths.
· The causes of suffering according to Ayurveda, Buddhism and yoga.
· The cure for suffering according to Ayurveda, Buddhism and yoga.
· Lots of practical tips for building our health.
· And this path to wellness will include a trip to the kitchen! You will see your optional vegetarian lunch, talk about how it was prepared, and how it will support and nourish you with its healthy qualities specific for this summer season.

Please join us for this fun and informative morning of satsang, as we share and ponder the teachings of the sages together. All are welcome.

“All problems, all miseries, all pains, are created by the mind.” – Swami Rama
“Let not your body conditions become your mind conditions.” – Swami Veda

Afternoon: 1:15-4:15 p.m. “Rasayana: The Ayurvedic Practice of Rejuvenation.”
Rasayana: The Ayurvedic Practice of Rejuvenation”
with Gary and Cynthia

There’s a story in the classical Ayurvedic text, the Charaka Samhita, called ‘The Return of the Sages.’ Despite having learned the principles of Ayurveda when they were younger, the sages discovered they had lapsed into some bad habits. So, they returned to the Himalayas to receive further teachings. These teachings include the principles of rejuvenation, known as Rasayana. In this workshop, we will cover:

· The multi-layered meaning of Rasa, the ‘sap’ or ‘juice’ of life.
· The signs of aging and the depletion of Rasa.
· How to rebuild our Rasa to slow the natural aging process.
· The guidelines for both cleansing and nourishing the body and the mind-field.

o How to work with Agni, our digestive fire
o How to work with foods and longevity herbs
o How our lifestyle, behaviors, and attitudes effect aging
o How to work with the subtle elements of prana, tejas, and ojas

Please join us for this fascinating and truly transformative afternoon of satsang to share and ponder the longevity teachings. All are welcome.

“If you are constantly expelling the toxins from the body, you can control the aging process, expand the span of life, and lead a healthy life.” – Swami Rama

Gary and Cynthia Gran have been treading the Himalayan path since the late 1970s. They met at the old Glenview Center in Illinois and have served the tradition in various capacities over the years. They are both certified yoga teachers and Ayurvedic educators. They have published more than eighty articles on yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. They are currently spending the summer in Minneapolis, offering classes and consultations at The Meditation Center. Their home is in Tucson, Arizona where they enjoy desert gardening, cooking and hiking.
Gary Gran, DAy. CYT
Cynthia Gran, DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP

Events on August 1, 2023 - Full Moon Tuesday - "Awakening the Senses: Outdoor Meditation with Cynthia Gran”, Full Moon Fire Havan, and Full Moon Meditation
2023-08-01 18:30 - 22:00
Events on August 1, 2023
Full Moon Tuesday

RSVP here if you would like to join the nature walk and the havan!

Everyone is welcome!

6:30-7:30 p.m. “Awakening the Senses: Outdoor Meditation” with Cynthia Gran starting and ending at TMC
7:45—8:45 p.m. Fire Havan in TMC’s Back Yard. In-person event only
8:45—9:00 p.m. Move into Hall of the Tradition and prepare for Full Moon Meditation
9:00—9:30 p.m. Guided Meditation by Swami Ritavan Bharati via zoom using the Chicago zoom invitation.
9:30—10:00 p.m. Continuation of the Full Moon Meditation

“Awakening the Senses: Outdoor Meditation”
with Cynthia Gran DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP
starting and ending at TMC
6:30-7:30 p.m.

Free Event!!!

After a short introduction about awakening our senses and enhancing our appreciation of Nature, we will walk silently through the park among the tall green trees.

We will be outside the whole time, so wear a hat and good
shoes, and bring a water bottle and sunscreen if you need.

Class will begin and end at The Meditation Center before the havan.

“August Full Moon Havan” – TMC’s Back Yard
with Emilio Betagglio and Chris Young
7:45—8:45 p.m
The fire havan is an in-person only event.
It will not be zoomed.

Offering of the dried twigs Brought to TMC on Guru Purnima
You can bring a bundle of sticks the evening of the havan.

On Guru Purnima, July 3rd, participants brought bundles of dry twigs to be offered into the fire havan. See below the statement by Swami Rama. Due to the weather that day, it was decided to do a flower havan in the Hall of the Tradition. It was then announced that the twig bundles would be kept at The Meditation Center for the next best opportunity, hopefully, to be offered during the August full moon on Tuesday, August 1st.

At that time, weather permitting again, a fire havan will be held for the principal purpose of offering the twigs into the fire havan…paraphrasing Swami Rama’s statement below…for the Guru to burn troublesome and torturing karmas and samskaras represented by the small wooden sticks.

In case you have not brought twigs to TMC and are interested in participating, there is still time to bring them, either in person the evening of the August 1st full moon or dropping them off in the office ahead of time, or by mail to TMC. Prior to offering them, Swami Radha will bless the twig bundles.

“Best student is he who takes from the teacher—not he who gives. The scripture also tells you what you should give to your teacher. It is never said that you should give a large check, your entire bank balance. No! You give dry twigs—a bundle of dry twigs to your teacher. That’s the symbol that “I have nothing to give you. You don’t need anything for yourself. I know I cannot do anything for you. These dry twigs represent my karmas. There are some samskaras which are very hard on me, trouble me, torture me. Will you please burn them?” Has he got power to do this? Yes. But it’s not his power. He uses the power of the tradition to help the student. It’s not his power.” Swami Rama.

Global Full Moon Meditation
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
In Person Viewing at TMC and Via Zoom
9:00-10:00 p.m. CDT

This Global Full Moon Meditation will begin guided by Swami Ritavan Bharati from SRSG in Rishikesh, flowing into a silent meditation until 10:00 p.m.

This event is courtesy of the Chicago Himalayan Yoga & Meditation Center – HYMC.

For more information regarding the global full moon meditation schedule visit
HYMC’s website here.

Cancelled for August 2, 2023 - Wednesday Mornings via Zoom – Gentle Hatha Yoga (Drop-In) with Sig Martell and Rosann Chamberlain
2023-08-02 10:30 - 12:00
Cancelled for August 2, 2023
WEDNESDAY MORNINGS VIA ZOOM – GENTLE HATHA YOGA (DROP IN)

Time: 10:30am to Noon
Instructors: Sig Martell and Rosann Chamberlain
Fees: $12.00/class ($10.00 for seniors and students)
DROP-IN HATHA CLASSES (ONGOING)
Everyone is Welcome! These classes are for all levels. Instructors excel at leading the class in relaxation, gentle asana (yoga positions) and pranayama (breath). Relieve stress, achy joints, improve balance at all levels and increase your sense of well being. No registration necessary, just show up.

Hybrid Thursday Satsang In Person at TMC and via Zoom - Path of Fire & Light: 'Package Deal' with Gary Gran, CYT, DAy - August 3, 2023
2023-08-03 19:00 - 20:30
Hybrid Thursday Satsang In Person at TMC and via Zoom – August 3, 2023
Path of Fire & Light: ‘Package Deal’
with Gary Gran CYT, DAy
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Michael Snodgrass
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation by Swami Ma Radha Bharati
7:30-8:30 p.m.: Path of Fire & Light: ‘Package Deal’ with Gary Gran CYT, DAy
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks

Swami Rama taught the first of several Path of Fire & Light seminars from July 24-31, 1986, in Honesdale, PA. After the first seven days of lectures and workshops, Swamiji detailed what he called his ‘package deal’ in the lecture entitled “Awakening the Dormant Fire & Leading it to the 1000-Petalled Lotus” on 7.31.86. The ‘package deal’ was a systematic summary of all the teachings presented during the seminar, with step-by-step instructions on how to follow the path of fire & light. Please join us as we share the contents of this valuable teaching. There will be plenty of quotes from Swamiji to inspire us. All are welcome.
Gary Gran, CYT, DAy. was in attendance at the seminar and will be sharing the teachings from his personal notes. He and his wife Cynthia have been treading the Himalayan path since the late 1970s. They met at the old Glenview Center in Illinois and have served the tradition in various capacities over the years. They are both certified yoga teachers and Ayurvedic educators. They have published more than eighty articles on yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. They are currently spending the summer in Minneapolis, offering classes and consultations at The Meditation Center. Their home is in Tucson, Arizona where they enjoy desert gardening, cooking and hiking.

AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice via Zoom with Chris Young - August 9, 2023
2023-08-09 19:00 - 20:00
New AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice via Zoom
with Chris Young
Wednesday, August 9, 2023
Time: 7:00 p.m. CDT
We will meet every other Wednesday to recite the mantra together.
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः ।

“Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”
Om, Gam, salutations to Lord Ganesha

Gayatri Prayer

गायत्री मातः। हे गुरो। श्री गुरो।
सद् बुद्धिं मे प्रयच्च।
चित्तं मे निर्मलं शान्तं प्रसन्नं भूयात्।
सर्वे मे भावाः शुध्यन्ताम्।
मैत्री भावनया क्षमां याचितुं आत्मबलं मे देहि।
ॐ तत्सद् ब्रह्मार्पणम् अस्तु॥

gāyatrī mātaḥ | he guro | śrī guro |
sad buddhiṁ me prayacca |
cittaṁ me nirmalaṁ śāntaṁ prasannaṁ bhūyāt |
sarve me bhāvāḥ śudhyantām |
maītrī bhāvanayā kṣamāṁ yācituṁ ātma balaṁ me dehi |
om tat-sad brahmārpaṇam astu ||

Mother Gayatri, Oh Gurudeva, Shri Gurudeva
Grant me pure buddhi.
May my mind become immaculate, quiet, peaceful, clear and pleasant.
May all my emotions be purified.
Grant me the spiritual strength to ask for forgiveness with a sentiment of amity.
Om. That (alone is) Real.
May (all this endeavor) be (accepted as my) surrender and offering to Brahman.

Chris will guide us in the recitation of the Gayatri Prayer and of 1 mala of the new mantra,”Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”.

Chris Young was initiated into the Himalayan Yoga Tradition in 2005, but has been connected with The Tradition in some way since birth, with his parents being early members and faculty of The Meditation Center in Minneapolis. Chris occasionally leads Kirtan at the Meditation Center’s Thursday satsang, and helps with some IT aspects of the HYT Teacher Training Program. Chris finds the thread of yoga and meditation that has been taught through the Tradition and its teachers, and cultivated through practice, to always keep him returning to his heart’s path – the path of Yoga – and he is grateful to be a part of the local and global communities that are working to further the mission of The Himalayan Yoga Tradition. He is the father of two amazing boys, he enjoys singing and playing music, and is ready to help with your ocular asanas through eye-roll-inducing dad jokes.

Thursday Satsang In-Person Viewing and Via Zoom: Presentation of an Audio Teaching "What is Silence?" by Swami Veda Bharati presented at the Dunrovin Silence Retreat in July 2007 - August 10, 2023
2023-08-10 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In-Person Viewing and Via Zoom – August 10, 2023
Presentation of an Audio Teaching “What is Silence?” by Swami Veda Bharati
presented at the Dunrovin Silence Retreat in July 2007
7:00-8:30 p.m. CDT
Note: New Ongoing Time Change to Thursday’s Gentle Hatha Drop-In Class…
begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 6:45 p.m.
New Time – 5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Sunita Gangopadhyay
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation by Swami Radha Bharati
7:30-8:30 p.m.: Presentation of an Audio Teaching “What is Silence?” by Swami Veda Bharati
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks

Details to come. Attend this Thursday Satsang to be inspired and invigorated by the words of Swami Veda Bharati.

Cancelled - Wednesday Mornings via Zoom – Gentle Hatha Yoga (Drop-In) with Sig Martell and Rosann Chamberlain
2023-08-16 10:30 - 12:00
Cancelled – WEDNESDAY MORNINGS VIA ZOOM – GENTLE HATHA YOGA (DROP IN)

Time: 10:30am to Noon
Instructors: Sig Martell and Rosann Chamberlain
Fees: $12.00/class ($10.00 for seniors and students)
DROP-IN HATHA CLASSES (ONGOING)
Everyone is Welcome! These classes are for all levels. Instructors excel at leading the class in relaxation, gentle asana (yoga positions) and pranayama (breath). Relieve stress, achy joints, improve balance at all levels and increase your sense of well being. No registration necessary, just show up.

Thursday Satsang In-Person and Via Zoom: "The Universal Language of Emotions" with Joann Huff - August 17, 2023
2023-08-17 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In-Person and Via Zoom – August 17, 2023
“The Universal Language of Emotions” with Joann Huff
7:00-8:30 p.m. CDT
Note: New Ongoing Time Change to Thursday’s
Gentle Hatha Drop-In Class…begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 6:45 p.m.

New Time – 5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Susan Guthrie
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation with Emilio Bettagli0
7:30-8:30 p.m.: “The Universal Language of Emotions” with Joann Huff
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks
Join Joann Huff this Thursday for a discussion regarding the language of emotions.

Joann states, “Emotions are like a universal language and we all speak this language. Almost everyone can all understand sadness, fear, curiosity, and joy. Out of balance and I will say things I regret, self sabotage, and avoid being my best. However emotions can also inspire, motivate, and nurture feelings of joy. They can encourage me to do things I want to do, learn about myself, and inspire me to continue on the path. Let’s explore the energy of emotions and see if we can discover ways to work with this universal language in positive ways. I invite you to discuss the energy of emotions with me.”

To support the work of The Meditation Center and register you can donate here (suggested donation $15.00) for Thursday Satsang or make a general donation by clicking on the “donate” button on the “Support TMC” website page.

AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice Via Zoom with Chris Young - August 23, 2023
2023-08-23 19:00 - 20:00
NEW AHYMSIN COMMUNITY MANTRA JAPA PRACTICE VIA ZOOM
WITH CHRIS YOUNG
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Time: 7:00 p.m. CDT
We will meet every other Wednesday to recite the mantra together.
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः ।

“Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”
Om, Gam, salutations to Lord Ganesha

Gayatri Prayer

गायत्री मातः। हे गुरो। श्री गुरो।
सद् बुद्धिं मे प्रयच्च।
चित्तं मे निर्मलं शान्तं प्रसन्नं भूयात्।
सर्वे मे भावाः शुध्यन्ताम्।
मैत्री भावनया क्षमां याचितुं आत्मबलं मे देहि।
ॐ तत्सद् ब्रह्मार्पणम् अस्तु॥

gāyatrī mātaḥ | he guro | śrī guro |
sad buddhiṁ me prayacca |
cittaṁ me nirmalaṁ śāntaṁ prasannaṁ bhūyāt |
sarve me bhāvāḥ śudhyantām |
maītrī bhāvanayā kṣamāṁ yācituṁ ātma balaṁ me dehi |
om tat-sad brahmārpaṇam astu ||

Mother Gayatri, Oh Gurudeva, Shri Gurudeva
Grant me pure buddhi.
May my mind become immaculate, quiet, peaceful, clear and pleasant.
May all my emotions be purified.
Grant me the spiritual strength to ask for forgiveness with a sentiment of amity.
Om. That (alone is) Real.
May (all this endeavor) be (accepted as my) surrender and offering to Brahman.

Chris will guide us in the recitation of the Gayatri Prayer and of 1 mala of the new mantra,”Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”.

Chris Young was initiated into the Himalayan Yoga Tradition in 2005, but has been connected with The Tradition in some way since birth, with his parents being early members and faculty of The Meditation Center in Minneapolis. Chris occasionally leads Kirtan at the Meditation Center’s Thursday satsang, and helps with some IT aspects of the HYT Teacher Training Program. Chris finds the thread of yoga and meditation that has been taught through the Tradition and its teachers, and cultivated through practice, to always keep him returning to his heart’s path – the path of Yoga – and he is grateful to be a part of the local and global communities that are working to further the mission of The Himalayan Yoga Tradition. He is the father of two amazing boys, he enjoys singing and playing music, and is ready to help with your ocular asanas through eye-roll-inducing dad jokes.

Thursday Satsang Via Zoom Only: "Ayurveda Study Group, Core Principles of Ayurveda"with Gary Gran CYT, DAy. and Cynthia Gran on August 24, 2023 , 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CDT
2023-08-24 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang Via Zoom and In-Person Viewing at TMC – August 24, 2023
“Ayurvedic Study Group: Core Principles of Ayurveda”
with Gary Gran, CYT, DAy. and Cynthia Gran, DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CDT
6:00-7:00 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Eric Ness

7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation with Swami Radha Bharati

7:30-8:30 p.m.: Ayurveda Study Group
” with Gary Gran, CYT, DAy. and Cynthia Gran DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP

8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers

8:40 p.m. – Snacks

Please join us for the next meeting of our Ayurvedic study group. Attendance at prior meetings is not required. All are welcome. We’ll continue with Chapter One of the Charaka Samhita with more sutras, commentary, and discussion. Please bring your ‘beginner’s mind’ and join us as we listen deeply and reflect on the words of the sages.
“The objective of this compendium is achievement of dhatu samya, the equilibrium of the bodily elements.” – Charak Samhita, Sutrasthana, 1.54
Gary & Cynthia Gran have been treading the Himalayan path since the late 1970s. They met at the old Glenview Center in Illinois and have served the tradition in various capacities over the years. They are both certified yoga teachers and Ayurvedic educators. They have published more than eighty articles on yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. They are currently spending the summer in Minneapolis, offering classes and consultations at The Meditation Center. Their home is in Tucson, Arizona where they enjoy desert gardening, cooking and hiking.
Gary Gran, DAy. CYT
Cynthia Gran, DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP

Gary’s blog is ayurvedalessons.com.

"August Blue Super Full Moon Havan" in TMC's Back Yard with Emilio Betagglio and Chris Young and Full Moon Meditation with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Guiding
2023-08-30 18:30 - 22:00
“August Blue Super Full Moon Havan”

TMC’s Back Yard on Wednesday
with Emilio Betagglio and Chris Young
August 30, 2023
7:45—8:45 p.m CDT

The fire havan is an in-person only event. It will not be zoomed.
RSVP here
We need an approximate head count
so Emilio can purchase sufficient supplies.

7:45—8:45 p.m. Fire Havan in TMC’s Back Yard. In-person event only
8:45—9:00 p.m. Move into Hall of the Tradition and prepare for Full Moon Meditation
9:00—9:30 p.m. Guided Meditation by Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) via zoom using the Chicago zoom invitation.
9:30—10:00 p.m. Continuation of the Full Moon Meditation

Wednesday, August 30, 2023
In Person Viewing at TMC and Via Zoom
9:00-10:00 p.m. CDT
This Global Full Moon Meditation will begin guided by Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) , flowing into a silent meditation until 10:00 p.m.

This event is courtesy of the Chicago Himalayan Yoga & Meditation Center – HYMC.

For more information regarding the global full moon meditation schedule and to receive the Zoom link visit:
HYMC’s website here.

Thursday Satsang In-Person Viewing and Via Zoom: Presentation of an Audio Teaching "Why Die? - Abhinivesha" by Swami Veda Bharati - August 31, 2023
2023-08-31 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In-Person Viewing and Via Zoom – August 31, 2023
Presentation of an Audio Teaching “Why Die – Abhinivesha”
by Swami Veda Bharati
7:00-8:30 p.m. CDT
Note: New Ongoing Time Change to Thursday’s Gentle Hatha Drop-In Class…
begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 6:45 p.m.

New Time – 5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Chris Young
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation by Swami Radha Bharati
7:30-8:30 p.m.: Presentation of an Audio Teaching “Why Die? – Abhinivesha” by Swami Veda Bharati
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks

Details to come. Attend this Thursday Satsang to be inspired and invigorated by the words of Swami Veda Bharati.

AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice via Zoom with Chris Young - September 6, 2023
2023-09-06 19:00 - 20:00
New AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice via Zoom
with Chris Young
Wednesday, September 6, 2023
Time: 7:00 p.m. CDT
We will meet every other Wednesday to recite the mantra together.
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः ।

“Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”
Om, Gam, salutations to Lord Ganesha

Gayatri Prayer

गायत्री मातः। हे गुरो। श्री गुरो।
सद् बुद्धिं मे प्रयच्च।
चित्तं मे निर्मलं शान्तं प्रसन्नं भूयात्।
सर्वे मे भावाः शुध्यन्ताम्।
मैत्री भावनया क्षमां याचितुं आत्मबलं मे देहि।
ॐ तत्सद् ब्रह्मार्पणम् अस्तु॥

gāyatrī mātaḥ | he guro | śrī guro |
sad buddhiṁ me prayacca |
cittaṁ me nirmalaṁ śāntaṁ prasannaṁ bhūyāt |
sarve me bhāvāḥ śudhyantām |
maītrī bhāvanayā kṣamāṁ yācituṁ ātma balaṁ me dehi |
om tat-sad brahmārpaṇam astu ||

Mother Gayatri, Oh Gurudeva, Shri Gurudeva
Grant me pure buddhi.
May my mind become immaculate, quiet, peaceful, clear and pleasant.
May all my emotions be purified.
Grant me the spiritual strength to ask for forgiveness with a sentiment of amity.
Om. That (alone is) Real.
May (all this endeavor) be (accepted as my) surrender and offering to Brahman.

Chris will guide us in the recitation of the Gayatri Prayer and of 1 mala of the new mantra,”Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”.

Chris Young was initiated into the Himalayan Yoga Tradition in 2005, but has been connected with The Tradition in some way since birth, with his parents being early members and faculty of The Meditation Center in Minneapolis. Chris occasionally leads Kirtan at the Meditation Center’s Thursday satsang, and helps with some IT aspects of the HYT Teacher Training Program. Chris finds the thread of yoga and meditation that has been taught through the Tradition and its teachers, and cultivated through practice, to always keep him returning to his heart’s path – the path of Yoga – and he is grateful to be a part of the local and global communities that are working to further the mission of The Himalayan Yoga Tradition. He is the father of two amazing boys, he enjoys singing and playing music, and is ready to help with your ocular asanas through eye-roll-inducing dad jokes.

Thursday Satsang In-Person and Via Zoom : "What Is Selfless Service?"A Discussion with the TMC Spiritual Committee with an introduction by Stephen Parker (Stoma) - September 7, 2023
2023-09-07 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In-Person and Via Zoom – September 7, 2023
“What Is Selfless Service?”
A Discussion with the TMC Spiritual Committee
with an introduction by Stephen Parker (Stoma)
7:00-8:30 p.m. CDT
New Time – 5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Michael Snodgrass
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation with Swami Ma Radha Bharati
7:30-8:30 p.m.: “What Is Selfless Service?”
a discussion with the TMC Spiritual Committee; an introduction by Stoma.
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks

Join us tonight for a wonderful discussion regarding selfless service with some members of the TMC Spiritual Committee, Swami Radha Bharati, Stephen Parker (Stoma), Emilio Bettaglio, and Eric Ness.
…One benefit of making the wise choice to render selfless service is that the Divine Guru is keeping His eye on you…
…Remember, the true Ashram is in a selfless loving heart.
From “Love, Meditation, and Service” by Swami Veda Bharati
Read entire article here courtesy of AHYMSIN.org

Cancelled - Postponed until 2024 - "Feel Better, Go Deeper" - September Workshop with Charles and Carol Crenshaw, September 8-10, 2023
2023-09-08 19:30 - 21:00
Cancelled – Postponed until 2024
A September Workshop with Charles and Carol Crenshaw
“Feel Better, Go Deeper”
September 8-10, 2023
Register here

All sessions: $90.00
Each single session: $20.00

This workshop will cover ways to balance your body-mind complex so that you can deepen your meditation. Emphasis will be on increasing the subtlety of your awareness.

We will cover these three areas:

Physical Body Balance
Learn some basics of Hanna Somatics and Pilates, simple exercises for all levels that
will enhance and complement your asana practice.

Energy/Emotional Balance
In these sessions, we will cover some key exercises related to the energy body (subtle
body). They will help to effectively balance your energy system. You will also learn
Emotional Stress Release and The Emotion Code, user-friendly techniques to release
negative emotions and leave you clearer to laser focus your concentration.

Refining Relaxation and Breathing
This section will include: a) a class on Pranayama, where you will glean pointers on how to refine your breathing, b) a Levels of Relaxation class, where you will see how the practices of our tradition are organized to progressively go to subtler levels of your being. Both theory and practice will be included.

Friday, September 8th:
7:30-9:00 p.m. – Hanna Somatics

Saturday, September 9th:
10:00-11:30 a.m. – Pilates
1:30-3:00 p.m. – Energy Body Exercises
3:30-5:00 p.m. – Emotional Stress Release / Emotion Code
7:00-8:30 p.m. – Levels of Relaxation

Sunday, September 10th:
9:00-10:30 a.m. – Pranayama

11:00-11:30 a.m. – Questions and Answers

Carol Crenshaw, M.S., Ed.M., E-RYT 500, C-IAYT Certified Therapist, received her Master’s in EasternStudies/Comparative Psychology/Holistic Health. She served as a yoga therapist and biofeedback trainer in the Combined Therapy Program at the Himalayan Institute Headquarters in PA, and the Center for Holistic Medicine in NYC. Carol has taught yoga and meditation for over 30 years, has trained yoga teachers since the 1980’s and is an initiator in the Himalayan Tradition. Carol is a Certified Clinical EFT Practitioner, co-author of EFT For Meditation, contributing author to Clinical EFT Handbook, Consulting Hypnotist and Certified Hypnosis Instructor, and Certified NLP Practitioner. She presently teaches at Inner Peace Yoga Center in Indianapolis and worldwide.

Charles B Crenshaw Jr., M.S., E-RYT 500, C-IAYT Yoga Therapist: Charles is a graduate of the Eastern Studies Program created by Swami Rama presented in an ashram (gurukulam) setting. He was trained directly by Swami Rama and Swami Veda Bharati among other notables in our Himalayan Tradition. He is the Author of “Pathless Path: God, Grace, Guru” and Co-author of “EFT for Meditation.”

Yoga Sutras” Fall 2023 Series - Vibhuti Pada with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT
2023-09-11 19:00 - 21:00, 2023-09-25 19:00 - 21:00
“Yoga Sutras” Fall 2023 Series – Vibhuti Pada
with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT

Mondays: September 11, 18, 25 and October 9, 2023
No class on October 2nd
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Begins at 7:00 p.m. with Meditation guided by Stoma

Study of the “Yoga Sutras of Patanjali” with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT

Chapter 3, the Vibhuti Pada

Cost: $55.00 for the series
$15.00 for drop-in either in person or via Zoom
If you live in a time zone that does not allow for you to attend the Yoga Sutras sessions in real time, register for the 4-week series and you will be sent Vimeo links to the recorded sessions as soon as they are uploaded to Vimeo

Register here for the 4-sessions series.

Register here for a Single Session on September 11, 2023

Register here for a Single Session on September 18, 2023

Register here for a Single Session on September 25, 2023

Register here for a Single Session on October 9, 2023

The Fall 2022 series of the “Yoga Sutras” with Stoma is being offered to anyone who desires to learn more regarding the gifts of meditation and yoga given through this text.

Everyone is welcome!

Join Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) for this special ongoing study of the text, the “Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.” We are continuing the study of the the third chapter, the “Vibhuti Pada.”

We will be using the text, either “The Yoga Philosophy of Patanjali,” or “The Yoga Philosophy of Patanjali with Bhasvati,” both by Swami Hariharananda Aaranya. Or you can use any commentary on the “Yoga Sutras” that you have available.

Thursday Satsang In-Person and Via Zoom: "The Yamas, Five Pearls of Raja Yoga, the Foundation of the Royal Path " with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT - September 14, 2023
2023-09-14 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In-Person and Via Zoom – September 14, 2023
“The Yamas, Five Pearls of Raja Yoga, the Foundation of the Royal Path “
with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT
7:00-8:30 p.m. CDT

New Time – 5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Lori Beron
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation
with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT
7:30-8:30 p.m.: The Yamas, Five Pearls of Raja Yoga, the Foundation of the Royal Path “
with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks

Join us on tonight for a talk with Stoma regarding the Yamas, the first rung of Raja Yoga, the Royal Path, also known as Astanga Yoga, the 8-limbed Yoga, and their importance as guidelines for our lives in creating a yogic approach to living. This foundation in understanding the yamas assists us in choosing right attitudes in thought, speech, and action towards others with whom we are in relationship.
“…Yamas may be translated as “ethical restraint.” This is because the first of these attitudes is ahimsa (nonharm, nonviolence), and the other four yamas are extensions of that attitude. There must be someone or something towards which we practice the yamas, so they are intrinsically relational…
…Whenever Patanjali makes a list in the sutras, the order of the items on the list is significant. So it means something that he has placed the work with yama and niyama first and second in the process of moving towards Self-realization. As if that were not enough, he explicitly highlights the importance of relationship in sutra II.31. He states that the principles of the yamas apply ‘ at all times, in all conditions, at all levels of practice and attainment.’ From beginning to end, Yoga is about relationship…
(From Clearing the Path, The Yoga Way to a Clear & Pleasant Mind: Patanjali, Neuroscience, and Emotion, pages 87-88 written by Stephen Parker, PsyD).

“The Yamas are five restraints which regulate one’s relationship with other beings. They are Ahimsa or non-violence, Satya or truthfulness, Asteya or non-stealing, Brahmacharya or abstinence from sensual indulgence and Aparigraha or non-possessiveness…”
(From Lectures on Yoga, Practical Lessons on Yoga by Swami Rama, pages 17–19. This book was later published with the title The Royal Path, Practical Lessons on Yoga.

Cancelled for Tonight - Next Session on October 4th - AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice via Zoom with Chris Young - September 20, 2023
2023-09-20 19:00 - 20:00
Cancelled for tonight….next session on October 4th
New AHYMSIN Community Mantra Japa Practice via Zoom
with Chris Young
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Time: 7:00 p.m. CDT
We will meet every other Wednesday to recite the mantra together.
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः ।

“Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”
Om, Gam, salutations to Lord Ganesha

Gayatri Prayer

गायत्री मातः। हे गुरो। श्री गुरो।
सद् बुद्धिं मे प्रयच्च।
चित्तं मे निर्मलं शान्तं प्रसन्नं भूयात्।
सर्वे मे भावाः शुध्यन्ताम्।
मैत्री भावनया क्षमां याचितुं आत्मबलं मे देहि।
ॐ तत्सद् ब्रह्मार्पणम् अस्तु॥

gāyatrī mātaḥ | he guro | śrī guro |
sad buddhiṁ me prayacca |
cittaṁ me nirmalaṁ śāntaṁ prasannaṁ bhūyāt |
sarve me bhāvāḥ śudhyantām |
maītrī bhāvanayā kṣamāṁ yācituṁ ātma balaṁ me dehi |
om tat-sad brahmārpaṇam astu ||

Mother Gayatri, Oh Gurudeva, Shri Gurudeva
Grant me pure buddhi.
May my mind become immaculate, quiet, peaceful, clear and pleasant.
May all my emotions be purified.
Grant me the spiritual strength to ask for forgiveness with a sentiment of amity.
Om. That (alone is) Real.
May (all this endeavor) be (accepted as my) surrender and offering to Brahman.

Chris will guide us in the recitation of the Gayatri Prayer and of 1 mala of the new mantra,”Om Gam Gaṇapataye Namaha”.

Chris Young was initiated into the Himalayan Yoga Tradition in 2005, but has been connected with The Tradition in some way since birth, with his parents being early members and faculty of The Meditation Center in Minneapolis. Chris occasionally leads Kirtan at the Meditation Center’s Thursday satsang, and helps with some IT aspects of the HYT Teacher Training Program. Chris finds the thread of yoga and meditation that has been taught through the Tradition and its teachers, and cultivated through practice, to always keep him returning to his heart’s path – the path of Yoga – and he is grateful to be a part of the local and global communities that are working to further the mission of The Himalayan Yoga Tradition. He is the father of two amazing boys, he enjoys singing and playing music, and is ready to help with your ocular asanas through eye-roll-inducing dad jokes.

Thursday Satsang Via Zoom and In-Person Viewing Only: "Ayurvedic Study Group: Rasa: The Heart of Ayurveda" with Gary Gran CYT, DAy. and Cynthia Gran on September 21, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CDT
2023-09-21 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang Via Zoom and In-Person Viewing at TMC – September 21, 2023
“Ayurvedic Study Group: Rasa: The Heart of Ayurveda”
with Gary Gran, CYT, DAy. and Cynthia Gran, DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CDT
6:00-7:00 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Susan Guthrie

7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation with Swami Radha Bharati

7:30-8:30 p.m.: “Ayurvedic Study Group: Rasa: The Heart of Ayurveda”
with Gary Gran, CYT, DAy. and Cynthia Gran DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP

8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers

8:40 p.m. – Snacks

Please join us for the next meeting of our Ayurvedic study group. Attendance at prior meetings is not required. All are welcome. For this class, we’ll move to Chapter 26 of the Charaka Samhita to continue our discussion of rasa, the six tastes. Here, we’ll learn of an historic conference of the sages who raised questions about rasa, and we’ll hear what they concluded. This will give us a chance to raise our own questions about rasa, and to deepen our appreciation of ‘the heart of Ayurveda’. Please bring your ‘beginner’s mind’ and join us as we listen deeply and reflect on the words of the sages.

“Taste occurs as a sensation on the tongue. The underlying elements of taste are water and earth. Variations in taste are caused by the other three elements of fire, air, and ether.” –
“Charaka Samhita”, Sutrasthana, 1.64
Gary and Cynthia Gran have been treading the Himalayan path since the late 1970s. They met at the old Glenview Center in Illinois and have served the tradition in various capacities over the years. They are both certified yoga teachers and Ayurvedic educators. They have published more than eighty articles on yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. They are once again enjoying desert gardening, cooking and hiking at their home in Tucson, Arizona.
Gary Gran, DAy. CYT
Cynthia Gran, DAy. E-RYT 500, YACEP

Gary’s blog is ayurvedalessons.com.

Thursday Satsang In Person and Via Zoom: "Savoring the Rasa of Satsanga: with Swami Ritavan Bharati - September 28, 2023
2023-09-28 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In Person and Via Zoom – September 28, 2023
“Savoring the Rasa of Satsanga: with Swami Ritavan Bharati
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CDT

5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Susan Guthrie
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Meditation with Swami Ritavan Bharati
7:30-8:30 p.m.: “Savoring the Rasa of Satsanga”
with Swami Ritavan Bharati
8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers
8:40 p.m.: Snacks

Join Swami Ritavan for an inspiring talk,”Savoring the Rasa of Satsanga” on Thursday, September 28th.
“What is Rasa?”
Rasa (refers to the creation and reception of a distinct ‘flavor’ or quality of something. As a Sanskrit theological concept, ‘rasa’ was popularized by specific …Krishna-centered bhakti traditions, such as Gaudiya Vaishnavism from the fifteenth century. The theological use of the word can be found early, about two thousand years before the Nimbarka or Chaitanya schools of bhakti, in a phrase that Chaitanya traditions frequently quote: “Truly, the Lord is rasa” (raso vai sah) of the “Taittiriya Upanishad” (2.7.1). This statement expresses the view that God is the one who enjoys the ultimate rasa, or spiritual rapture and emotions.
It is believed Rupa Goswami developed, under the direct guidance of Caitanya, the articulated and formulated theology of ‘rasa’ as “the soul’s particular relationship with the divinity in devotional love”. Rupa’s text draws largely from the foundational theory of ‘rasa’ formed by Bharata Muni, the originator of Sanskrit dramaturgy, or “Natya Sastra” (perhaps as early as the 2nd century BCE). These relationships with the divinity in devotional love, rasa, can closely resemble the variety of loving feelings that humans experience with one another, such as beloved-lover, friend-friend, parent-child, and master-servant. Rasas are distinguished as lower and higher and according to “Bhagavad Gita”, it appears that the three higher rasas are acknowledged and preferred by Arjuna. The higher rasas are described as loving, friendly, and fraternal types of relationships. From Wikipedia.org

Our “Decade of Loving Transformation” is underway and enlivening the spiritual lives of initiates across the globe.

During Swami Ritavan’s yearly visit to the Meditation Center, the community members are invited to come and experience a deepening understanding of inner peace and total well-being. The theme of “Loving Transformation” will be addressed through the Buddhist Heart Sutra, the Christian Beatitudes, along with the Yoga Sutras, and Yoga Nidra practices. The presentations, discussions, and practices will inspire and enhance aspirations for the coming year.

September 29th : Friday – Full Moon Meditations
Join Swamiji in his global full moon meditation sequence at the following times at the Meditation Center:
7:00-8:00 a.m.
2:00-3:00 p.m.
9:00-10:00 p.m.
Also, a Full Moon Havan with Pandit Emilio Bettaglio at 7:30 p.m.

September 30th – October 1st: Seminar “Decade of Loving Transformation”
Both Saturday and Sunday 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
(see description above)

Full Moon Havan with Pandit Emilio Bettaglio at 7:30 p.m. and Global Full Moon Meditation - September 29, 2023, 9:00-10:00 p.m.
2023-09-29 21:00 - 22:00
September Super Full Moon Havan and
Global Full Moon Meditation
Friday, September 29, 2023
9:00-10:00 p.m. CDT
Meditation In Person at TMC and Via Zoom through Chicago Zoom Link

Attend a Full Moon Havan at TMC with Pandit Emilio Bettaglio at 7:30 p.m.

In Person at TMC and via Zoom sponsored by HYMC Chicago Center from 9:00-10:00 p.m.
Attendance in the Full Moon (Global) meditation is FREE.
Please do register in advance to join the meditation by clicking on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0ldeiopz8rHNI38xm9GgPRx3pFhiKGRwos
The meeting ID: 898 2109 4166
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Swami Ritavan Bharati has said, “The full moon meditations are an opportunity for us to come together in connecting with the universal mind-field bringing unity, harmony, peace, and love. Go into your silence; exhale-release, inhale-accept, forgive and fulfill, with purified heart and mind receive the blessings of the Lineage.”

“You are lovingly invited to sit in meditation for an hour wherever you are, in your home or with friends. Total beginners and longtime practitioners, non-initiates and initiates are welcome. If you cannot sit for the entire hour, sit as long as you are able; as Swami Veda has said, ‘Let the quietness of the mind continue even after you rise..'” (Courtesy of AHYMSIN.org January 2023 newsletter).

Everyone is welcome!

Cancelled for Saturday, September 30 - Seminar "Decade of Loving Transformation" with Swami Ritavan Bharati
2023-09-30 09:30 - 12:30
Cancelled for Saturday, September 30th, due to unforeseen circumstances
Seminar “Decade of Loving Transformation”
with Swami Ritavan Bharati
October 1, 2023
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Suggested donation $20.00 per session
RSVP here for October 1st
Our “Decade of Loving Transformation” is underway and enlivening the spiritual lives of initiates across the globe.

During Swami Ritavan’s yearly visit to the Meditation Center, the community members are invited to come and experience a deepening understanding of inner peace and total well-being. The theme of “Loving Transformation” will be addressed through the Buddhist Heart Sutra, the Christian Beatitudes, along with the Yoga Sutras, and Yoga Nidra practices. The presentations, discussions, and practices will inspire and enhance aspirations for the coming year.

In Person and Via Zoom – Sunday Morning Guided Meditation with Swami Radha Bharati
2023-10-01 08:20 - 09:30, 2023-10-08 08:20 - 09:30
In Person and Via Zoom – Sunday Morning Guided Meditation
with Swami Radha Bharati
8:20 A.M. – 9:15 A.M.
Join for Morning Prayers: 8:20-8:30 a.m.
Sunday Morning Meditation: 8:30-9:15 a.m.

Join Swami Radha Bharati on Zoom for a guided meditation on Sunday from 8:20 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

Seminar "Decade of Loving Transformation" with Swami Ritavan Bharati - October 1, 2023
2023-10-01 09:30 - 12:30
Seminar “Decade of Loving Transformation”
with Swami Ritavan Bharati
October 1, 2023
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Suggested donation $20.00
RSVP here for October 1st

Our “Decade of Loving Transformation” is underway and enlivening the spiritual lives of initiates across the globe.

During Swami Ritavan’s yearly visit to the Meditation Center, the community members are invited to come and experience a deepening understanding of inner peace and total well-being. The theme of “Loving Transformation” will be addressed through the Buddhist Heart Sutra, the Christian Beatitudes, along with the Yoga Sutras, and Yoga Nidra practices. The presentations, discussions, and practices will inspire and enhance aspirations for the coming year.

No class on October 2nd...will resume on October 9th...Yoga Sutras” Fall 2023 Series - Vibhuti Pada with Dr. Stephen Parker (Stoma) Psy.D., 500-RYT
2023-10-02 19:00 - 21:00

Thursday Satsang In Person and Via Zoom: "I Am Not The Body" with Daniel Hertz, MS, BCB, E-RYT 500 - October 5, 2023
2023-10-05 19:00 - 20:30
Thursday Satsang In Person and Via Zoom: – October 5, 2023
“I AM NOT THE BODY”
with Daniel Hertz, MS, BCB, E-RYT 500
7:oo – 8:30 p.m.
New Time – 5:30-6:45 p.m.: Gentle Hatha Yoga with Chris Young

7:00-7:30 p.m.: Guided Meditation with Swami Ma Radha Bharati

7:30-8:30 p.m.: “I am not the Body” with Daniel Hertz, MS, BCB, E-RYT 500

8:30 p.m.: Evening Prayers

8:40 p.m.: Snacks
THERE IS NO SET PRESCRIPTION for moving from fear to courage. Everyone must find what works best for them. Some might find inspiration from their yoga and meditation practice. Others may find serenity in their religious observances. There are many other practices such as cognitive therapy and bodywork that can also help someone reach that place of inner peace. When Daniel was faced with a shocking diagnosis four months ago, he struggled to get beyond the overwhelming fear. Every thought of his approaching surgery brought a wave of anxiety. Please join us as he shares and discusses what helped him move to a place of acceptance.
Bio: Daniel Hertz, MS, BCB, E-RYT 500 has been on the faculty of The Meditation Center since 1995. He is the author of a memoir entitled Everything is A Little Bit Alright: yoga, meditation, and a dog named Roy. It is available on Amazon at this link.

"Subtle Energetics in Yoga Practice" with Dr. Dale Buegel, In Person at TMC and Via Zoom, October 6-8, 2023
2023-10-06 19:00 - 21:00, 2023-10-07 10:00 - 15:30
“Subtle Energetics in Yoga Practice” with Dr. Dale Buegel
October 6-8, 2023
In Person at TMC and Via Zoom
Registration coming soon.
If you are able, it is good to attend this workshop in person as you will have the opportunity to perform asana and pranayama practices under the expert guidance of Dr. Buegel.
Friday Evening 7:00 – 9:00 pm
“The Effects of Āsana Practice on Prāṇamāya Koṣa”
The literal translation of “hatha yoga” is to unite or bind together the energetic forces of piṅgalā and iḍā, the solar and lunar energies. In this workshop we will examine the passive and active effects of performing āsanas on the subtle energetic anatomy of prāṇa.

Saturday Morning 10:00 am – 12:00 noon
“Prāṇamāya Koṣa and Cakras I”
Saturday’s cakra sessions are for those who wish to understand the subtle energetic anatomy of the cakras and explore methods to study, balance, and cultivate those energies. Balancing the energies at a cakra is essential to opening that aspect of a cakra which embodies consciousness.
Saturday Afternoon 1:30 – 3:30 pm
“Prāṇamāya Koṣa and Cakras II”

Sunday Morning 10:00 am – 12:00 noon
“The Role of Śakti in Prāṇāyāma Practice”
This workshop will focus on opening the lower gate at mūlādhāra cakra and facilitating the role of Śakti in energizing the twelve cakras. Please wear non-binding clothing appropriate for prāṇāyāma practice. Retention during these practices will be optional for those who are prepared and experienced with practices involving retention.
Dr. Buegel was a student of Swami Rama and has practiced and taught hatha yoga and meditation for over 40 years in seminars, teacher training programs, and specialty workshops. His expertise in the fine points of yoga techniques have earned him the respect and appreciation of students in the U.S. and abroad. He is certified by Yoga Alliance E-RYT 500, YACEP.
