Sangha of Palo Alto

Ananda
Sangha of Palo Alto
“The time for
knowing God
has come.”
Paramhansa
YOGANANDA
Fall-Winter 2009
Joy is Within You
To do yoga just for the exercise,
or to meditate just to lower your blood pressure,
is like buying a beautiful new home and then living on the porch.
It may be nicer than where you were before, but why not go inside?
Yours, for the asking.
The whole place is yours!
No dogma.
No institution.
No priestly intercession required.
The power of Self-transformation is inherent in the practices.
It is yours for the asking.
Why content yourself with less?
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joy
The spiritual journey begins
at the point where you are now standing.
Your next step is wherever your heart guides you to move.
There is no single, right way that everyone must follow.
There are obvious starting and ending points,
and milestones along the way, but the path is not linear.
spiritual
journey
It is not a mere gathering of information.
It is spiraling inward to the center of your own being.
It is not, however, a journey into the unknown.
Many great souls have walked this way before you
and have blazed a trail of wisdom that you can follow.
You have to make the journey yourself,
but you need not walk alone.
like-minded friends
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Credo for
Truthseekers
May the Divine Light
awaken and purify my heart,
and bring enlightenment to
all beings.
I keep myself in readiness
to perceive the truth
no matter what garb it wears.
Fearlessly, I accept the truth,
knowing that, at the heart of
everything, God’s truth
is always good.
I welcome everything that
comes to me as an opportunity
for further growth.
In the calm mirror of my
understanding I behold
Thy light reflected.
O Infinite Spirit,
keep my mind and heart
open to the wisdom guidance
of my soul.
Guide me, that in all things
I know Thy will.
Keep me steadfast
on my path, Lord.
My goal in life is union
with Thy Infinite Bliss.
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Ananda is a place where
ancient
an ancient spiritual lineage
takes visible form.
In the blessings of the Masters,
In the companionship of like-minded friends,
In a technique of self-mastery called Kriya Yoga.
blessings
Blessings of the Masters
Babaji
“Babaji’s spiritual state is beyond human comprehension.
The dwarfed vision of men cannot pierce to his transcendental star. He can be seen or recognized by others only
when he so desires. But whenever anyone utters with
reverence the name of Babaji, that devotee attracts an
instant spiritual blessing."
Jesus
“Babaji is in constant communion with Christ; together they send out vibrations of redemption, and have
planned the spiritual technique of salvation for this age.
The work of these two fully-illumined masters is to
inspire the nations to forsake suicidal wars, race hatreds,
religious sectarianism, and the boomerang-evils of materialism.”
Lahiri Mahasaya (1828-1895)
“The silent spiritual awakenings he effected, the
Christ-like disciples he fashioned, are his imperishable
miracles… ‘At first I [Yogananda] grieved that Lahiri
was no longer physically living. As I began to discover
his secret omnipresence, I lamented no more.’”
Sri Yukteswar (1855-1935)
“He fitted the Vedic definition of a man of God, ‘Softer
than the flower, where kindness is concerned; stronger
than the thunder, where principles are at stake.’ He taught
by sublimity of example alone the measure of a true
man.”
Paramhansa Yogananda (1893-1952)
“The vibration of many spiritually seeking souls come
floodlike to me from the West, I [Babaji] perceive
potential saints in America and Europe, waiting to be
awakened.” To Yogananda he said, “You are the one
I have chosen to spread the message of Kriya Yoga
in the West.”
All quotes are from Autobiography of a Yogi.
Swami Kriyananda
Swami Kriyananda (1926- )
Direct disciple of Paramhansa
Yogananda
Founder and Dharmacharya of
Ananda Sangha worldwide
dharma = right action; that which
expands consciousness
acharya = teacher
From the time he became a disciple
in 1948, at the age of 22, Swami
Kriyananda has devoted his life to
spreading his guru’s teachings of
Self-realization and Kriya Yoga.
His music and books are distributed
in 90 countries, in 26 different
languages, and have sold nearly 3
million copies worldwide. He has
founded eight spiritual communities,
based on Yogananda’s teachings,
including three retreats, and four
schools for children.
Above all, Swamiji has inspired and
guided others through his example
of discipleship, and the expansive
power of his consciousness. “The
greater the Self-realization of a
man,” Yogananda says, “the more he
influences the whole universe by his
subtle spiritual vibrations.”
About his life and accomplishments,
Swamiji says, “I’ve had two desires
in my life. The first is to find God;
the second is to help others to find
Him. Nothing that I have done is
important except to the extent that
it has helped people individually in
their love for God. That is all that
matters.”
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Like-Minded Friends
"May Thy love shine forever on the sanctuary of our devotion, and may
we be able to awaken Thy love in all hearts."
Sunday Satsang 10 am
satsang = fellowship with truth; a gathering of truthseekers
Meditation & Fire Ceremony 9 am
Chanting
“Ever-new joy is evidence of God’s existence,
convincing to our very atoms.”
Meditation
Festival of Light
“Yoga requires no formal allegiance. Because the
yogic science satisfies a universal need, it has a
natural universal applicability.”
“Even the yoga-beginner soon inwardly hears the
wondrous sound of AUM. Receiving this blissful
spiritual encouragement, the devotee becomes
assured that he is in actual touch with divine
realms.”
Intuitive Guidance
Fire Ceremony
Sunday Satsangs are usually led by David & Asha
Praver, Acharyas of Ananda Sangha of Palo Alto.
To hear a Sunday talk, go to On-Line Inspiration at
www.anandapaloalto.org and click “Talks by Asha.”
“No barrier exists to mergence of human with
Divine save in man’s spiritual unadventurousness.”
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“One’s values are profoundly changed when he is
finally convinced that creation is only a vast motion
picture, and that not in it, but beyond it, lies his own
reality.
"Words cannot express my gratitude for all the inspiration
you've given me. For many years the Ananda experience has
blessed me and I like the slow transformation. Please tell
all the staff how when I'm there, I feel I am in the
company of saints."
—J.P., Saratoga
Self-Mastery Through Kriya Yoga
kriya yoga = union with the Infinite through a certain action or rite;
a specific meditation technique taught by Paramhansa Yogananda
“All scriptures declare man to be not a corruptible body, but a living soul;
by Kriya he is given a method to prove the scriptural truth.”
living soul
“Kriya, controlling the mind directly through the life force, is the
easiest, most effective, and most scientific avenue of approach to the Infinite. In
contrast to the slow, uncertain ‘bullock cart’ theological path to God, Kriya may
justly be called the ‘airplane’ route.”
“Kriya is accompanied from the very beginning by an accession
of peace and by soothing sensations of regenerative effect in the spine.”
“Hindu scriptures teach that the incarnating ego requires a million years
to obtain liberation from the cosmic delusion Maya. This natural period
is greatly shortened through Kriya Yoga.”
“Through use of the Kriya key, persons who cannot bring themselves
to believe in the divinity of any man will behold at last the full divinity
of their own selves.”
divinity within
“The blessed role of Kriya Yoga in the West has hardly more than
just begun. May all men come to know that there is a definite, scientific
technique of Self-realization for the overcoming of all human misery!”
peace
To begin your journey into Kriya Yoga, please read on...
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Meditation Training
Seven Steps to Kriya Yoga
“Everything in future will improve
if you are making a spiritual effort now.”
Each Step is complete in itself, and a prerequisite for the one that follows. Take the whole sequence,
or stop at any point if you prefer to meditate on your own without further instruction.
Meditation Training is offered on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Evening classes are
1.5 to 2 hours.
Step I:
Breath
Start with the fundamentals: What is meditation? How does it work and why?
What could be simpler than the breath, or more subtle? Always with us, seldom
noticed, breath is the definition of life itself. If you breathe, you can meditate.
Learn to understand, and then influence, the relationship of consciousness, thought,
heartbeat, and breath.
Thursdays, 7:30 pm
October 9–30, November 6–20, December 4–18, January 8–29
Saturdays, 10 am– 1 pm
October 11, November 1, January 24
Cost: $45 (3 week series) $60 (4 week series) $30 (Saturday class)
“Students are encouraged to move at their own pace which helped
me relax and get into my own flow. I was very surprised that I was
able to quiet my mind, even after the first class.”
– S.P., South San Francisco
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Register and prepay online and receive a 10% discount: www.anandapaloalto.org
Meditation Training
Step 2
Step 5
Energy
AUM
To generate, concentrate and direct energy at will is
the secret to success in meditation. Otherwise, the
mind runs wild. A unique method of energy control
invented by Yogananda, develops physical, mental,
and spiritual strength. Also of benefit to athletes, artists, businessmen, parents, children, entrepreneurs,
and other creative thinkers and dynamic doers.
Thursdays, 7:30
November 6–20, January 8–29
Cost: $45 (3 week series) $60 (4 week series)
The vibration of AUM is your own true nature.
A simple method of inward listening opens a mystic
doorway within. AUM is the Holy Spirit, the Divine
Mother, the Christ Consciousness manifest in
creation, the sound of “many rushing waters”
described in the Bible as the Day of Pentecost.
All spiritual traditions describe the same experience.
AUM, Amen, Amin.
Thursdays, 7:30
November 6–20
Cost: $45
Step 3
Step 6
Devotion
Chakras
You are not alone. Meditation is not wishful thinking. It is direct perception of that which is. You are
not a body; you are the Infinite Spirit. Meditation is
a relationship with your own higher Self, and with
the Masters who will bring you to Self-realization.
Mind and heart work together. Everything in the
universe responds to Love.
Thursdays, 7:30
October 9–30
Cost: $60
Chakras are the gateways through which divine
energy enters physical manifestation. Your chakras
determine your health, your destiny, and your state
of spiritual realization. Meditation is a scientific
method for opening and clearing the energy in the
chakras. A deeper understanding, and experience of
the chakras prepares you for the next initiation.
Thursdays, 7:30
October 9–30
Cost: $60
Step 4
Step 7
Discipleship Initiation
Kriya Initiation
Do you want to climb the mountain on your own, or
would you like the help of an experienced guide? All
true spiritual paths lead to the same goal. But one set
of feet – one heart, one mind – can only follow one
path at a time. With commitment comes strength,
clarity, and grace.
Babaji declared that Kriya should be given to “all
who humbly ask for help.” But some preparation
is necessary, to make the body and mind ready to
receive the power created by the practice of this final
technique. Now you are ready.
"This class has helped me immensely, both on a personal and a professional basis. I am
amazed at the difference only a few weeks of meditation has made.”
—S. D., Sunnyvale
Questions and Registration 650-323–3363
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Life Training
Sadhana, Satsang, Study
sadhana = spiritual practices
“Truth cannot be created, but only perceived.
The goal of yoga science is to calm the mind,
that without distortion it may mirror
the divine vision of the universe.”
Each of these course series form the foundation studies of the principles of yoga
philosophy and their practical application. Some of these class series begin with
a guided sadhana—a combination of gentle yoga postures, chanting, affirmations,
and meditation, with instruction, tailored to meet the individual needs of group
members. Courses meet once a week for two to three hours, for five to twelve
weeks depending on the subject.
All quotes are from Autobiography of a Yogi.
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Life Training
Art and Science of Raja Yoga
raja yoga = royal path
Raja Yoga includes all the supporting principles and practices that awaken the desire
to meditate, and make successful meditation possible.
Each class begins with an hour of gentle hatha yoga postures tailored to meet the needs of the
group followed by a brief meditation.
This course and the textbook on which it is based
are the foundation for a lifetime of spiritual practice.
Science is the objective understanding of how consciousness descends into matter.
Art is the creative application of that understanding to expand awareness.
Philosophy
Principles of yoga are scientific, and eternal. Not
dependent on human belief or dogma, but perceived
by introspection and experiment. Esoteric principles
explained: karma, chakras, Self-realization, kundalini,
guru, attunement, astral worlds, astrology, devotion,
selfless service, divine love, and more.
Hatha Yoga
The Ananda Method of yoga postures emphasizes
the emotional, mental, and spiritual benefits, as well
as the physical. Even if your dexterity is limited by
age, health, or other factors, in the Ananda Method,
inner focus and affirmations give you access to
higher states of consciousness, the true purpose of
Hatha Yoga.
Pranayama
Use the breath to harmonize, increase, and direct
your energy. Fatigue, depression, lack of mental
clarity, and other stress related illnesses are greatly
improved through therapeutic breathing exercises.
Pranayama – control of energy — is the key to
success in meditation.
“I would like to thank you all for everything. The class
has been wonderful. You are great teachers. It was
exactly what I needed and I am feeling and dealing
with things in my life so much better now. I am really
going to miss the class when it ends...”
– J. L., Montara
Meditation
Group practice, guided by long-time meditators,
gives power to your personal practice. Learn or hone
your technique, develop right attitude, understand
the divine principles behind meditation, such as
devotion, chakras, and the role of the guru.
Healing
Ancient yogic methods can bring immediate results,
even to long-standing conditions. Yoga practices for
nervous disorders, weight problems, digestion, heart
ailments, sexual issues, insomnia, and more.
Diet
The yogic approach to diet is, “How does food
affect consciousness?” Different foods have different
vibrations, depending on the life force in the food
itself, the consciousness of the person who prepared
it, and the attitude of the one who eats it.
Wednesdays, 6— 9 pm, Jan. 7– March 25
plus two Saturdays, 9 am— noon
January 24 and February 7
Hatha yoga session, 6 pm– 7:15 pm
Philosophy and discussion, 7:30 pm– 9 pm
Cost: $350 includes all materials and the
450 page book, The Art and Science of Raja Yoga
by Swami Kriyananda.
Instructors: Dambara Begley, Tyagini Clark
and Rick Bonin
Questions and Registration 650-323–3363
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Life Training
The Essence of the Bhagavad Gita
Guidebook for Right Living
A study course based on The Essence of the Bhagavad Gita,
Explained by Paramhansa Yogananda,
As Remembered by His Disciple,
Swami Kriyananda
The whole of the Bhagavad Gita can be read in an afternoon.
To absorb its wisdom, however, is the task of a lifetime – many lifetimes, in fact.
Yogananda’s explanation, however, makes the task easier. It is the “airplane route”
to understanding the Gita. “Millions will find God through this work,”
Yogananda declared. “Not just thousands: millions! I have seen it. I know!”
This commentary is thoroughly modern in language and content,
with examples from life as we know it now.
Yogananda does not dismiss the material world as merely an illusion,
the way some teachers do. All parts of human nature need to be developed—
physical and mental as well as spiritual—or lacks in one area may obstruct progress in others.
Yogananda shows how the Gita can and should be applied to all levels of reality.
The commentary is deep so we move slowly, about 10 pages a week. This is Part V in the series,
but each series—in fact, each class—stands alone, so you can join at any time.
The Story Behind the Story
Passage to Freedom
The Gita is one small section of a much larger epic
called the Mahabharata. It is the story of war between
cousins. The two families represent our inner
qualities; the field of battle is our own consciousness.
Chakras, kundalini, the hidden workings of karma,
the need for guru’s grace. Esoteric secrets of spiritual
success. Hidden pitfalls to the soul’s progress. All are
contained (and explained) within the Gita.
Who Dies?
The allegory is war. It is kill or be killed. Even
Arjuna, the great hero of the Mahabharata, hesitates.
The Gita is Krishna’s response. Civilizations rise and
fall, but the task for man is ever the same: to realize
God within himself.
"Even though I have read the
Bhagavad Gita, your talks have
helped me gain much more from this
seminal book. You are like a tour
guide, pointing out points of
interest, background, fleshing out
simple lines and hints of color to
explain more clearly the majestic
beauty of this scripture."
–L. R., Rhode Island
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That Which Was Hidden Can Now
Be Revealed
Eternal truth is never out of date. From time to time,
though, the expression of that truth needs to be
renewed. To Yogananda was given the divine task of
reinterpreting this ancient scripture for modern times.
Tuesdays, 7:30 pm, October 7–28,
November 4, 18, January 6–27
Cost: $15 per class
Instructor: Asha Praver
Register and prepay online and receive a 10% discount: www.anandapaloalto.org
Life Training
The Chakras
Your Destiny Revealed
chakras = subtle energy centers in the spine
Your chakras are where your karma is stored and how it is carried from one incarnation to the next.
Everything about you is determined by your chakras: gender, nationality, health, attitude toward life, hopes,
fears, expectations, even your DNA.
The chakras are the transfer point between your soul and your physical body.
They are where your karma is stored, and how it is carried from one incarnation to the next. Even your
hour of birth, and therefore your horoscope, is determined by your chakras.
Understand your chakras and you’ll know everything about yourself. Change your chakras and everything
in your life will change.
Learn how to experience your chakras and how to harmonize and influence the energy within them.
Each week focuses on a different chakra.
Earth Chakra
Air Chakra
This is your foundation. It makes you steadfast,
courageous, loyal to truth. When out of balance,
you become ungrounded, or the opposite—
inflexible, dogmatic, heavy-minded.
This is your heart. It gives you devotion, love, and
the ability to empathize and connect with other
people. Out of balance, your emotions run away with
you. You become moody, and a slave to your likes
and dislikes.
Water Chakra
Ether Chakra
Fire Chakra
Super-Ether Chakra
This is your creativity. It gives you intuition and
the ability to flow with life. Out of balance, you
become wishy-washy, unable to commit or hold to
a straight course in life.
This is your power. It gives you self-control, enthusiasm, and the ability to manifest your dreams.
Misused, it becomes fanaticism, self-destructive
habits, or abuse of others.
"I was amazed at the volume of information covered
in this series that seemed to touch on all areas of life.
It was especially nice to have yoga prior to the class
discussion. I look forward to taking this series again."
A.R, Sunnyvale
This is your voice. It is your self-expression, your
ability to communicate through words, images, or
music. Used rightly, this energy makes you expansive, calm, peaceful. Out of balance, you are restless,
spacey, mercurial, bored.
This is surrender to a power higher than your ego.
It makes you selfless, serviceful, radiant, attuned
to joy. Misused, you become over-intellectual, too
rational, cold, even Chakra, the 1000-Petaled Lotus
that unites you with God.
Wednesdays, 7:30 pm, Oct. 8– Nov. 19
Cost: $90, $15 per class
Instructors: Raghu and Tyagini Clark, Tushti
Conti, Rick Bonin, and Barbara Fiesterman
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Classes and Seminars
“The knowledge of yoga is free to all who will receive it, like the ungarnishable daylight.”
How to Live a Balanced, Healthy Life
Your Own Infinite Power for
Self-Healing and Transformation
The human will, Yogananda teaches, infused with
Divine will, can accomplish any change: "Will is the
instrument of the image of God in you."
Our health depends primarily on two factors: our
karmic strengths and weaknesses, and the efforts
we make to keep our body-mind-soul recharged
with vital energy (prana.) The principles and
practices you will learn in this class are based on
Yogananda's guidelines for balanced living, and on
Swami Kriyananda's Secrets for Radiant Health and
Well-Being.
Saturday, 10 am— 1 pm, October 4, $30
Instructor: Tyagini Clark
The Law of Success
Using the Power of Spirit to Create Health,
Prosperity, and Happiness
Your success in life does not altogether depend on
ability and training; it also depends on your determination to grasp opportunities that are presented
to you. Opportunities in life come by creation, not
by chance. In this series you will learn to overcome
obstacles and reclaim your innate magnetism to
draw success from God's all-possessing, all-powerful, all-bountiful hands.
Attunement: The Foundation of
the Spiritual Path
Paramhansa Yogananda stressed repeatedly the
necessity of attunement to the guru. Without deep
attunement, the spiritual progress that the soul longs
for is simply not possible.
Through the Masters who have come to this Earth,
God has provided us a clear pathway to our most
cherished desire, complete happiness. In this class
you will explore what attunement is and how to
develop it in yourself more deeply.
Saturday, November 1, 10 am— 1 pm, $30
Instructor: Asha Praver
Finding the Spirit in Relationships
Discover how to express your own highest potential
in all of your relationships: friendship, love, marriage,
family, even at work where the challenges may be the
greatest. Relationships offer us an opportunity to experience our greatest joy, but they can also present our
biggest challenges, or, thought of another way,
our greatest opportunity for spiritual growth.
Saturday November 15, Cost: $30
Instructor: Dr. Shanti Rubenstone
Saturday, 10 am— 1 pm, October 25, $30
Instructor: Tyagini Clark
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Register and prepay online and receive a 10% discount: www.anandapaloalto.org
Classes and Seminars
Women's Retreat
We have so few opportunities to really get away
from all our responsibilities and concerns and dive
deeply into meditation and prayer. In a group, there
is a power and a focus we can’t often achieve on our
own.
This retreat will take place in the Ananda temple
sanctuary. You'll practice centering yourself through
yoga and meditation and draw upon Yogananda’s
scientific affirmations and prayer techniques for
personal and general healing.
Bring a vegetarian potluck dish to share at lunchtime
with the group.
Saturday, 9 am– 1 pm, November 22, Cost: $30
Retreat leaders: Barbara Fiesterman, Tyagini
Clark, and Linda Diane.
Energization—Deepen
Your Practice
Are you gaining the maximum benefit in your
practice of the Energization Exercises? When the
answer is "Yes!" you feel a powerful and transforming flow of energy throughout your body. Yogananda
developed the practice of energization to dislodge
psychological and spiritual diseases from the
inner Self. This class will help you bring out the
healing benefits of the exercises and make them a
vibrant and fun part of your sadhana.
This class is for those who have some familiarity
with the energization exercises. Please wear comfortable clothing.
Saturday, 10 am– noon, November 22, $30
Instructor: Luca Moschini
Revelations of Christ
Christmas is a time to make great spiritual progress.
The veil between the material and the spiritual world
is reduced to gossamer by the outpouring of grace
from God, Christ, and Gurus. A natural time to study
the words of Christ and tune into the mystical meaning too often obscured by sectarian dogma. Jesus
was not a “fundamentalist,” he was a Self-realizationist, a guru in the same lineage as Yogananda and
Babaji. Attune to the living Christ. Transform your
experience of Christmas and your everyday life.
Based on the newly published book of the same title
by Swami Kriyananda.
Tuesdays, 7:30 pm, December 2–16, $45
Instructor: Asha Praver
Practicing the Presence of God
An Experiential Workshop
A perfect solution for those who feel: “I am too
busy for serious spiritual practice.” Or for those who
are already meditating, but would like to deepen
their everyday experience. Learn how, in the midst
of all your other activities, to feel God's presence
flowing through you.
In this workshop you will dive into the vibrational
power of Yogananda's devotional techniques to
stimulate and awaken your own innate inner bliss.
Saturday, 10 am— 1 pm, December 6, $30
Instructors: Raghu and Tyagini Clark
The Transforming Power
of Chanting
Gateway to Your Soul
In this class you will explore the transformational
effect of chanting to dramatically affect your
attitude and divine attunement. All things created,
even subtle phenomena such as thought and sound
are in a state of constant movement of vibration. By
offering the vibration of your voice and attention
Godward into the unique power of each chant, you
will find a fresh sense of inner freedom. Experience
how chanting can release your unlimited potential to
face life's obstacles.
Saturday, 10 am— 1 pm, January 10, $30
Instructor: Raghu Clark
Advice to Those Who Give Advice
The Art of Counseling
Professional counselors, educators, group leaders,
parents, friends—we all find ourselves eventually
in a situation where someone is looking to us for
guidance. But giving advice can mean much more
than helping someone solve their problems: it could
be an opportunity to inspire someone to discover
and develop their higher potentials. In this class, you
will learn how to hear and respond to the call of your
soul wisdom and your unique ability to serve the
highest in others.
Saturday, 10 am— 1 pm, January 17, $30
Instructor: Asha Praver
Questions and Registration 650-323–3363
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Expanding the Light
Fundraising Gala
SATSANG! FUN! SERVICE!
Save the Date!
Saturday Evening, October 25
Be with us on October 25th for our annual elegant fundraising event.
Catered dinner; Inspiring talks and entertainment.
Let’s complete the schooland start working on our Fellowship Hall.
Experience the blessing of Divine
Mother’s energy flowing through you.
“You are a part of all that is”
A Joyful Noise
Friday Night Kirtan
kirtan = devotional chanting and singing
Calm your mind, heal your heart, deepen your awareness of the divine within. The sacred sounds of chanting
transform your consciousness almost effortlessly. Stress is forgotten. Joy is remembered.
Whether you like to sing yourself, or prefer to sit silently while others make a joyous sound around you, you’ll
enjoy these bi-monthly chanting sessions.
Fridays, 7:30 pm, October 3 and 17, November 7 and 21, December 5 and 19, January 9, 23
Location: All kirtans are held at the Ananda Temple.
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Ananda Yoga for Higher Awareness
From Movement to Stillness
“Yoga combines the bodily and the spiritual with each other in an
extraordinarily complete way.”
Ananda Yoga is uniquely beneficial for people of all ages, physical
conditions, and levels of skill.
In Ananda Yoga, “success” means not only strength and flexibility
but increasing relaxation, concentration, and inner peace.
Calm and focus your mind through coordinated breathing
and pranayams (breathing exercises).
Open your heart and attune to spirit through affirmations that deepen
the inner awareness created by each pose.
Nourish your soul through music, prayer, and meditative moments in each session.
Ananda Yoga & Energy
Everything in life depends on the quality, quantity,
and control you have over your energy. The spine
is the key to the energy flow. Yoga is the science of
how to have a healthy spine. Learn to use Ananda
Yoga to tune into energy, remove inner blocks,
strengthen and harmonize the flow.
Saturday, 10 am— noon, October 18, $30
Instructor: Lauri Moschini
Restorative Ananda Yoga
Restorative yoga is ideal for those with intermittent
or chronic physical tension and pain. This type of
practice is unique in that there is no effort. You rest
supported by pillows and folded blankets in poses
designed to open the areas of the body where most
tensions are stored.
Saturday, 9 am– 11 am, November 8, $30
Instructor: Susan Brochin
Ananda Yoga & Meditation
In this class, yoga postures flow into learning basic
meditation techniques, including chanting and how
to sit comfortably. After a session of Ananda Yoga,
you’ll find it easy to go into the stillness of
meditation.
Wednesdays, 7:30 pm, December 3–17
Cost: $45
Instructor: Tushti Conti
Ananda Yoga & Sadhana
Foundation Course in Ananda Yoga
Experience how Spirit flows in the body and how
yoga postures can enhance that flow. Learn how
to generate this subtle energy, interiorize it in the
chakras, and lift it to a focus at the spiritual eye.
Develop appropriate yoga variations to suit the
time you have available and your level of skill.
Saturday, 9 am– 11 am, January 31, $30
Instructor: Barbara Fiesterman
Questions and Registration 650-323–3363
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Holidays and Celebrations
“Religion must become simple once again. It must return to the fundamental reality:
Divine Love and man’s need for direct, personal experience of that love.”
Thanksgiving Meditation & Service
“The path to God is not a matter of plodding wearily over some barren desert in the hope of finding an oasis.
Every step of the way becomes more beautiful: verdant, flowered, infinitely varied.”
The early Thanksgiving was a day of fasting by the pilgrims to thank God for sustaining them. We don’t go that
far, but we do maintain the true spirit of the holiday by starting the day with chanting, meditation, and individual
offerings of gratitude at the altar. Then we feast (vegetarian, of course).
Thursday, November 27
Meditation & Service 10 am– noon
Vegetarian Banquet 1 pm
Cost: $12/adults advance, $15 at the door, $6/children 6-12, under six free
The cooks thank you for buying your tickets before November 21.
New Year's Eve
“In the Temple of the New Year, renew your reverence for the unlimited hidden power of God within you.”
Meditation, Service & Fire Ceremony
Seize the moment. Begin the year at a point of highest inspiration. Celebrate your accomplishments. Burn up and
release whatever holds you back. Declare to yourself and to the universe your intention to make the coming year one
of ever-deepening joy and fulfillment in God.
Wednesday, December 31, Meditation: 8 pm– 9:45 pm, Service: 10 pm– midnight
Celebrating Paramhansa Yogananda
“God doesn’t always answer your prayers in the way you expect, but, if your faith in Him never wavers,
He will grant you far more than you expect.”
Retreat Day
“Yours is a glorious destiny. You
are a child of the Infinite! Every
fulfillment you ever dreamed of lies
waiting for you in God. His infinite
treasure-house is yours. Why delay?
Why waste time on countless
detours? Go straight to Him.”
Experience the truth of
Paramhansa Yogananda’s divine
promise: “To those who think me
near, I will be near.” A day dedicated
to attuning ourselves to the transforming presence of a God-Realized
Master through meditation, music,
and the inspirational words of the
Master.
A Birthday Party
Yogananda incarnated for one reason:
to bring others to Self-realization.
The one “gift” he craves is that we
give ourselves to God, as he has done.
The “theme” of our birthday party is
“Re-Dedication.” Everyone is invited
to place a flower on the altar, and with
that offering, to affirm the heart’s
commitment to seeking truth.
Monday, January 5
Meditation: 5:30 pm–7:15 pm
Service: 7:30 pm
Saturday, 10 am– 4 pm,
January 3
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Celebrations and Thanksgiving quote by Swami Kriyananda, others in this section are from Paramhansa
Yogananda.
Holidays and Celebrations
Christmas Celebrations
A Christmas Concert
Each year, we perform a concert that marks the beginning of Spiritual Christmas.
This year our concert will perform the deeply inspiring
collection of Swami Kriyananda's Christmas music we
don't often have the opportunity to enjoy. Our concert
will also works of other great composers that celebrate
the this joyful and sacred season.
Saturday, 7:30 pm, December 13, $10
All Day Meditation
“Go deep, completely forgetting yourself, praying and
singing to Christ as never before.”
The heart of Ananda Christmas. Even beginners, in
the inspired atmosphere of this meditation, will find it
surprisingly easy to sit far longer and more calmly than
ever before. Come for all or any part. Periods of silence
alternate with music, chanting, and inspirational words.
Chairs provided or bring what you need to sit comfortably on the floor, including a shawl or sweater. Call for
a schedule of when you can enter or leave.
Christmas Eve Midnight Service
“Open a new portal of sublime devotion. Christ is
coming in answer to your inner call.”
The holy hour of the coming of Christ consciousness
in the form of the baby Jesus, celebrated in grand style
with pageantry and music, and bright
candlelight in a darkened temple.
Wednesday, December 24
Meditation 8 pm— 9:45 pm
Service 10 pm— midnight
Christmas Day Family Service
A dramatic retelling of the story of Christmas, subtly
interwoven with the deeper mystical meaning behind
these events, starting when the child Mary gives her
life to God, ending when the Christ child is born in
a humble manger. Enlivened with music and dance,
illustrated by costumed children and adults. Children
should bring a simple gift to offer to the baby Jesus.
Thursday, noon– 1 pm, December 25
Saturday, 10 am– 6 pm, December 20
A Caroling Party
An old-fashioned holiday tradition, alive and well at
Ananda. A magical evening under the stars, bringing
Christmas cheer to the neighbors of the Ananda community. Afterwards, refreshments in front of a warm
fire. Bring your children. Dress warmly.
Sunday, 7 pm– 9 pm, December 21
Location: Chela Bhavan, Ananda Community
Christmas Vegetarian Banquet
Christ within, and Christ in one another. This is the
spirit of Ananda Christmas. Being together as a spiritual family, sharing a holiday dinner, plus music and
entertainment. The perfect close to the Christmas
season.
Thursday, 1:30 pm, December 25
Cost: $12/adults advance, $15 at the door
$6/children 6-12, under six free The cooks thank
you for buying your tickets before December 19th.
19
Ananda Resources— Bay Area & Beyond
Ananda Community
East West Bookshop
A Place Where You Can Live
A Gathering Place & Resource Center
for Consciousness
“You don’t have to leave your job, family,
and everything that is familiar to you. You can
stay where you are, but turn it into a spiritual
milieu. You can create a pocket of spirituality
that will benefit you personally, and will also
have a tremendous impact on society. People
everywhere will take heart from the success of
this spiritual community.”
—Swami Kriyananda
dedicating the community in August, 1989
Ananda Community is just a few blocks from El
Camino, right at the border of Mountain View and
Palo Alto.
Yet, it feels a world away from the bustling Bay
Area and its hectic way of life. Intentional community is created for one purpose: to provide sincere
truthseekers with a harmonious, spiritually supportive way of life.
The community is a converted apartment complex,
and in many ways, continues to operate in that way,
but with certain all-important differences. There is
a community meditation temple and a dining room
where vegetarian dinners are served five nights a
week. And instead of being surrounded by strangers,
your neighbors are your friends.
Visitors and new residents are welcome.
Ananda Community, 240 Monroe Drive,
Mountain View, CA 94040
(650) 941-9507
www.YoganandaCommunity.com
20
Guided and inspired by Ananda,
East West is dedicated to the principle
“The paths are many, but Truth is One.”
Whether you are interested in the latest discoveries uniting science and religion, or the most ancient
spiritual traditions, East West has something for you.
Books are just the beginning.
World-renowned speakers come to East West
regularly, sharing their wisdom. There is a program nearly every night of the week featuring local
spiritual teachers, psychologists, alternative medical
professionals, uplifting spiritual movies, and music.
Most events are low or no cost. East West also offers
a large collection of beautiful natural fiber clothing,
music, DVDs, yoga supplies, meditation pillows and
benches, candles, gift cards, journals, aromatherapy,
and thoughtful, meaningful gifts.
East West is one of the largest personal growth/
metaphysical bookstores in the world.
East West Bookstore
324 Castro Street
Mountain View, California 94041
650-988-9800 * 800-909-6161
www.eastwest.com
Ananda World-Wide
Truthseekers Everywhere
Ananda Sangha is a global movement described by this
prayer and the principles that follow.
May the Divine Light awaken and purify my heart,
and bring enlightenment to all beings.
We believe in a single, blissful, eternal consciousness, Satchidanandam, which pervades the
entire universe, unifying it and all creatures in a
bond of mutual service. 2. We believe that man’s
highest duty is to realize himself as an expression of
all-pervading Satchidanandam. 3. We seek never
to convert anyone to our specific cause except, in
love, to inspire all with the desire to reclaim the bliss
of their own being. 4. We seek fellowship with
others willing to join hands with us in this loving
labor for universal upliftment. 5. We recognize
that, whether or not others join us consciously in this
labor, all human beings, each one individually, serve
the Eternal Purpose. 6. In token of our dedication
to these principles, [at times] we wear a warm hue of
yellow, reminiscent of the sun, a color expressive of
our hearts’ ardor, of the purity of our aspiration, and
of the humility of our intentions. 7. We recognize
that the way of Ananda Sangha is primarily inward, not outward; that it leads one by the universal
pathway of the spine to the high state of communion
with God at that point in the forehead which lies
between the eyebrows.
1.
Living Wisdom School
for Children (pre K-8th)
Where learning and joy
come together
“True education can never be crammed and pumped from
without; rather it must aid in bringing spontaneously
to the surface the infinite hoards of wisdom within.”
Living Wisdom School helps children excel by cultivating the strengths of each child, and fostering a
hands-on, joyful approach to learning. Children who
have struggled at other schools, whether gifted or
lagging, flourish in Ananda schools. The education is
spiritual and non-sectarian; all faiths feel at home in
a Living Wisdom School.
The curriculum is challenging academically.
Graduates excel at top private high schools.
Performing arts receive special emphasis because
of the many benefits to childhood development and
character. Each year, the entire student body takes
part in a play based on the life of a great man of
woman of history. Past plays have included Joan of
Arc, Buddha, and Quan Yin. Area schools are
welcome to attend the performances; please make
arrangements well in advance to secure seating.
(Play dates: March 19– 21)
Living Wisdom School
456 College Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94306
(650) 462-8150
www.livingwisdomschool.org
(Excerpted from The Way of Ananda Sanghis. For the
complete version, call, or see www.ananda.org)
Eight Ananda communities and more than a 100
meditation groups and centers serve devotees in 25
countries.
Communities: Nevada City, Sacramento, & Palo
Alto, California * Seattle, Washington * Portland,
Oregon * Assisi, Italy * Gurgaon, India
Bay Area Centers: Boulder Creek (831) 338-9642 *
Berkeley (510) 540-6267 * Concord (925) 682-7887
21
Ananda Staff
David & Asha Praver, Acharyas, Lightbearers, guide and inspire
all Sangha activities, and lead Sunday Satsangs. David teaches
meditation classes; Asha gives the inspirational discourse most
Sundays, and for holidays and spiritual events.
Dambara Begley, Lightbearer,
teaches meditation and other
classes, is a singer and kirtan
leader, works in the Sangha
office and is in charge of promotions.
Marilyn Holm, scientist, artist,
and holistic healer in private
practice, and co-teaches with her
husband Dambara.
Raghu Clark, Lightbearer,
teaches many classes, is a
singer and kirtan leader and
also manages the Sangha office.
Tyagini Clark, Lightbearer, is
a main teacher and singer, leads
the Healing Prayer Ministry,
works in the Sangha office, and
designs the program guide.
Rick Bonin, Lightbearer,
arborist, Ananda Community
Manager, teaches meditation,
Raja Yoga, and other courses,
with a particular interest is
helping people with Kriya
Yoga.
Sangha Staff (left to right)
Ron Cantoni, retired engineer, is Webmaster, and master
of countless other tasks as well.
Linda Diane, minister, coordinates volunteers, arranges
flowers, decorates the altar, and helps create beauty
everywhere.
Padmini Schuet manages finances, promotions, and
coordinates the volunteers.
Lightbearer = a senior minister of Ananda Sangha
22
Teaching Staff (left to right)
Surendra Conti, Lightbearer, freelance writer, comanager of East West Bookstore, teaches creative
writing as a spiritual practice.
Steven Manus, minister, teaches meditation, scriptural study, and other topics, and is a talented amateur
actor, especially comedy.
Connie Hernandez, Naturapathic Physician in
private practice, teaches classes on healing.
Richard Salva, minister, and author of the book Soul
Journey from Lincoln to Lindbergh. He lectures on
reincarnation and yoga philosophy, and has appeared
on national radio.
Shanti Rubenstone, minister, M.D., an internist in
private practice, teaches meditation and healing.
Santosh LaMarche teaches meditation and works at
East West Bookstore.
Yoga Teachers (left to right)
Ramani Peterson, minister, a trained physical therapist,
also teaches science to the younger children in the school.
Tushti Conti, Lightbearer, a trained nurse, massage therapist, and black-belt in Karate, has a “day job” as co-manager of East West.
Luca Moschini, a massage therapist, has a private
practice in holistic healing.
Lauri Moschini, is a certified Ananda yoga and
meditation teacher, Pilates instructor, Balance posture
teacher, and massage therapist. She has been teaching
exercise classes for 18 years.
Susan Brochin, (not pictured) is an elementary school
teacher who enjoys teaching Ananda yoga to her students
and at local spas.
Barbara Fiesterman, (not pictured) is a co-manager of
Ananda Community. She has studied yoga and Master's
healing techniques for many years.
Living Wisdom School (left to right)
Barbara Rabin, Head Teacher, teaches second and third grade, 30
years experience in public and private schools.
Helen Purcell, Lightbearer, School Director, 30 years experience,
teaches Language Arts in the Middle School.
Gary McSweeney, Lightbearer, Middle School teacher, 20 years
experience with children.
Clare Mahoney, Minister, dancer, choreographer, singer, and
actress, inspires, and helps direct, our artistic presentations.
Patrick Mahoney, Minister, perfect Irish tenor, teaches voice,
leads the choir, and is the magnetic heart of the music at Ananda.
23
Calendar
Date
Class
October
4
Sat
7–28
Tues
8–11/19 Wed
9–30
Thurs
9–30
Thurs
9–30
Thurs
11
Sat
18
Sat
25
Sat
25
Sat
November
1
1
4–25
6–20
6–20
6–20
8
15
22
22
27
Sat
Sat
Tues
Thurs
Thurs
Thurs
Sat
Sat
Sat
Sat
Thurs
December
2-16
3-17
4–18
6
13
20
21
24
25
31
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Sat
Sat
Sat
Sun
Wed
Thurs
Wed
January
3
5
6-27
7-3/25
8–29
8–29
10
17
24
31
Sat
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Thurs
Sat
Sat
Sat
Sat
Page
How to Live a Balanced Life
Essence of the Bhagavad Gita
The Chakras
Meditation 1- Breath
Meditation 3- Devotion
Meditation 6 Chakras
Meditation 1- Breath
Ananda Yoga & Energy
The Law of Success
Expanding the Light Gala
14
12
13
8
9
9
8
17
14
16
Meditation 1- Breath
Attunement: the Foundation of the Path
Essence of the Bhagavad Gita
Meditation 1- Breath
Meditation 2- Energy
Meditation 5- Aum
Restorative Ananda Yoga
Spiritual Relationships
Women's Retreat
Energization: Deepen Your Practice
Thanksgiving Service and Banquet
8
14
12
8
9
9
17
14
15
15
18
Revelations of Christ
Ananda Yoga & Meditation
Meditation 1- Breath
Practicing the Presence
Christmas Concert
All Day Meditation
Caroling Party
Christmas Eve Midnight Service
Christmas Family Service and Banquet
New Years Eve Meditation
15
17
8
15
19
19
19
19
19
18
Guru Retreat
Yogananda Birthday Celebraton
Essence of the Bhagavad Gita
Raja Yoga Series
Meditation 1- Breath
Meditation 2- Energy
The Power of Chanting
The Art of Counseling
Meditation 1- Breath
Ananda Yoga & Sadhana
18
18
12
11
8
9
15
15
8
17
Sangha
Ananda
The Teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda
2171 El Camino Real
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Located 6 blocks north of
Oregon Expressway/Page Mill
650-323-3363
www.anandapaloalto.org
non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Palo Alto, CA
Permit No. 101
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED