The 8 hour Christmas meditation is a tradition started by Paramhansa Yogananda after he came to America. Celebrate the deepest awakening of the Christ consciousness within by practicing stillness during this holy season.
The day will include periods of silent meditation as well as periods of chanting and music and readings. Light snacks will be provided.
All are welcome to come for the day, or part of the day.
Tips for good meditation “etiquette” and getting the most out of this special opportunity:
- Eat lightly. Snacks are provided during the mid-day break.
- Dress comfortably in “quiet” clothing that doesn’t rustle with movement. Use layers for warmth. The room will be kept cool.
- Use a water bottle that is silent opening and closing.
- Bring your own meditation gear; some blankets will be available.
- Use headphones or earplugs to block out noise.
- Stay home if you have a cough or cold please.
- Enter and leave the sanctuary during chanting breaks only. If you must leave another time, stay in the classroom until the next break.
- Keep silent in the temple.
- Try to keep the day for inward activities before and after the meditation.
- Do NOT bring personal devices, cell phones, purses, backpacks, etc. into the meditation space.
Schedule:
*Enter and leave sanctuary during the chanting breaks. If you arrive at another time, we invite you to meditate in Clarity classroom until the next chanting break.
- 8:00 – 8:15 am: Opening Prayer and Chanting
- 8:15 – 10 am: Meditation (1 hr 45 min)
- 10 – 10:15 am: Chanting
- 10:15am – 12:00 pm: Meditation (1 hr 45 min)
- 12:00 – 12:15 pm: Chanting
- 12:15 – 1:00 pm: Meditation (45 min)
- 1:00 – 1:20 pm: Mid–day break (music)
- 1:20 – 1:30 pm: Chanting
- 1:30 – 2:30 pm: Meditation (1 hr)
- 2:30 – Blue Danube
- 2:40 – 3:10 pm: Meditation (30 min)
- 3:10 – 3:20 pm: Chanting
- 3:20 – 3:50 pm: Meditation (30 min)
- 3:50– 4 pm: Music/visualization and Closing Prayer
