Meditation
In the Himalayan Yoga Tradition, meditation is seen as a systematic method which leads one from the lower, material levels of awareness to the highest and most subtle state of consciousness. (“Yoga is samadhi.” – Vyasa’s commentary on YS I.1). The methods of applying meditative states of consciousness and meditative insights are studied so as to purify one’s thoughts and emotions and to refine one’s activities in everyday life. In actual practice, systematic “Steps of Meditation” are learned, including basic relaxations and breath awareness at the physical level. When these are established, sushumna application and subtle-body awareness is introduced along with mantra.
Meditation I – Learning the Basics
Students will learn the basics and the benefits of meditation and mindfulness as taught in the 5000-year-old Himalayan Tradition. Deep relaxation techniques, powerful pranayama (yogic breathing) techniques, as well as the importance of mantra to concentrate the mind will be taught. Beginning Raja yoga philosophy is also included in the class. Treat yourself to the many positive and often transformative benefits of a daily meditation practice.
Postponed until January 27, 2026
Hybrid Meditation I Series: “Learning the Basics”
with Paul Emerson PhD
Tuesdays: January 27 – February 24, 2026
Cost $ 62.50 for a five- week series.
Register here
Section 1 (in-person at the Meditation Center, can zoom when you can’t make it):
Section 2 (zoom only)
If you have already taken Meditation I and would like to attend this class, the cost is $31.25. Email us at info@themeditationcenter.org stating your intention to retake Meditation I and we will register you at half the cost.
Paul Emerson is a biomedical engineer with a Ph.D. He is the authority on the physiology of breathing for The Meditation Center and has been teaching yoga for over 30 years. Paul has worked as a research scientist, has been a manager of clinical research with a major biomedical company and a university instructor. In addition, he holds eight patents in the areas of dialysis and sleep therapy. he is a scholar of ancient yoga texts. Paul was certified by the Rockford School of Yoga and began teaching in 1975.
Meditation II – Superconscious Meditation (prereq: Med I)
Meditation II focuses on powerful and practical yoga practices that quiet and focus the mind; decreasing our emotional reactivity which often creates stress and pain in our relationships. Students will also receive 8 free CD’s or MP3’s of Swami Veda’s penetrating and inspiring lectures on yoga psychology and philosophy. These audios create an interactive atmosphere for discussion of questions and insights generated by the lectures.
Meditation II Series In-Person and Via Zoom
Meditation II Hybrid Class – SuperConscious Meditation
Dates: TBD
6:30 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.
Instuctors: TBD
Fee: $85
Section 1: (live at the Meditation Center, can zoom when you can’t make it)
Section 2 (zoom only)
Fee includes CDs or audio files.
Meditation III – Mantra, The Key to Deeper Meditation (prereq: Med I, Med II)
Learn the science of mantra in meditation and how it is a tool to help focus your mind and move through blocks to a deeper meditative experience.
This class opens the opportunity for the student to receive a personal mantra. We will also cover the use of a mala, japa practice and akandajapa, as well as what to expect during mantra initiation. The cost of the class includes the CDs of Swami Veda’s Mantra and Meditation lectures.
In Person – Meditation III: Mantra: The Key to Deeper Meditation
(Prereq: Meditation II and Meditation I)
Dates: TBD
Time: 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Jennifer Manion
Fee: $85
Meditation III fee includes an 11 CD or mp3 files series
Guided Meditations
Thursday Evening – 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Sunday Morning – 8:20 am – 9:15 am
New Schedule for Thursday Evening Satsang
5:30-6:45 p.m.: In-Person Gentle Hatha Yoga
7:00-7:30 p.m.: Meditation Guided by Swami Ma Radha Bharati and Others
7:30-8:30 p.m.: Inspirational Lecture
8:30 p.m.: Evening Chants
8:40 p.m.: Tea and Snacks
Sunday Morning Guided Meditation with Swami Radha Bharati
8:20 am – 9:15 am
(morning prayers, 30 minutes of guided meditation followed by an inspirational reading)
Global Full Moon Meditations 2026 via Zoom
Courtesy of HYMC, Palatine, Il
Guided meditations are also elements of various workshops, retreats and special event offerings. Check out our Calendar of Events for current meditation opportunities.