Sri Swamiji's meditation programs globally follow the same structure as was originally used since He completed tapas.
Meditation Program
Commonly asked Q & A
Q: How much do programs costs?
To familiarize yourself with protocol at programs such as Sri Swamiji‘s, here are a few Q and A:
Q: What should I wear?
Q: What should I bring?
Q: What is customary behavior upon entering the Meditation Hall?
Q: Do I need to stay for the full program?
We recommend staying for the full program to get the full benefits. If you can not stay, we recommend coming and going before each part of the program to avoid disturbing others in their meditation.
Q: Can I bring my kids?
Yes. However, as this is silent meditation we ask that the silence of the room is maintained. Often, parents will join with their kids during bhajans and alternate for meditation. An attendant may ask you step out if noise is created and disturbs other meditators.
Meditation Program
- 1 hour - Dhyana (silent meditation)
- 1 hour - Bhajans (spiritual singing)
- 10-15 minutes - Arthi (waving of light in front of the Guru)
- Prashad - Blessed food
Commonly asked Q & A
Q: How much do programs costs?
- All of Sri Swamiji's meditation programs are free! No fees or costs.
- Occasionally, there is a small fee for meditation retreats which cover the costs of venue and meals. This varies by city but Sri Swamiji is very accessible outside of the retreat.
- Sri Swamiji's organization is operated through donations.
- Feel free to contact [email protected] if you have any additional questions or concerns.
To familiarize yourself with protocol at programs such as Sri Swamiji‘s, here are a few Q and A:
Q: What should I wear?
- Both men and women should wear modest, conservative clothing to the Retreat and Meditation Programs. This will indicate respect for Sri Swamiji and the sacred space; it will allow other attendees to focus on Sri Swamiji’s teachings and their meditation practice, rather than being distracted by revealing clothing.
- Shoulders must be covered. No tank-tops or low-cut shirts. No midriff-baring shirts or tight-fitting clothes. Men’s shorts should be knee-length. Women’s pants and skirts should cover the knees (mid-calf or ankle-length).
Q: What should I bring?
- Loose, comfortable clothing. A light-weight sweater or blanket for chilly, air-conditioned rooms.
- Your own asana (cushion) for sitting on the floor; or, to add to the provided chairs.
- Your own re-usable water bottle (to cut down on plastic bottles); can be refilled from the water dispenser on-site.
Q: What is customary behavior upon entering the Meditation Hall?
- Arrive with good hygiene.
- Shoes must be removed before entering the Meditation Hall.
- Do not point your feet toward the Guru, the altar, or any Deity when seated on the floor.
- Do not sit with your back to the Guru.
- When Prasad (blessed food) is passed out, please accept it in your right hand.
- Practice silence as much as possible while in the Meditation Hall; when speaking, use a quiet, respectful tone of voice.
- Avoid hugging and other demonstrations of affection while in the Meditation Hall and in the presence of the Guru.
Q: Do I need to stay for the full program?
We recommend staying for the full program to get the full benefits. If you can not stay, we recommend coming and going before each part of the program to avoid disturbing others in their meditation.
Q: Can I bring my kids?
Yes. However, as this is silent meditation we ask that the silence of the room is maintained. Often, parents will join with their kids during bhajans and alternate for meditation. An attendant may ask you step out if noise is created and disturbs other meditators.