FAQs
IS IT DIFFICULT TO MEDITATE?
It is NOT difficult to meditate. In fact, it is quite simple and often very relaxing. Difficulties arise with insufficient teaching and incorrect practice.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF MEDITATION?
Meditation brings about a balance and harmony between mind, body, and spirit. This harmony already exists; all it requires is conscious recognition and experience. Although problems and situations occur in everyday life, meditation helps to maintain a sense of peace within.
WHY SHOULD I MEDITATE?
Meditation expands awareness and unfolds inner knowingness. Meditation awakens virtues and positive qualities within. Thousands of scientific research studies in the past 30 years have shown the benefits to the body, mind, behavior, improvement in quality of life, and self-esteem.
WHAT IS PERSONALIZED MEDITATION AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER GROUPS?
Meditation practices are individually prescribed and individually taught in order to be truly effective. There are many types of meditation techniques and an infinite number of variations within each category. The precise combination of practices that a person needs are dependent on many factors. For this reason, in AMS, meditation techniques are individualized by highly trained teachers. Each individual who applies for their personalized practices receives the practices that will be most beneficial for them at that time.
HOW CAN MEDITATION HELP IN MY EVERYDAY LIFE?
In daily living, we become more able to tackle problems from a place of love, calmness and greater creativity. We learn to turn that which was previously not joyous into joy. The skills learned in meditation, such as focus and self-compassion, are applicable in so many real-life situations. Meditation is important because it helps us in our everyday lives, not just because sitting on a cushion is fun some times.
IS MEDITATION AND THE AMERICAN MEDITATION SOCIETY A RELIGION?
No. Meditation is for everyone. Religiosity is not a necessity in any regard to benefit from the AMS practices or any meditative practices. Nor is any certain philosophy or belief system required. AMS Meditation is available for all people, and anybody from any background can practice the techniques and benefit from them. We strongly believe that meditative practices can complement religion in a meaningful way, and can support spiritual unfoldment. If you are a Christian, meditation can help you become a better Christian. If you are a Muslim, become a better Muslim. If you are a Jew become a better Jew. Religion is just one aspect of life that a meditation practice can benefit.
HOW LONG DO YOU MEDITATE?
The length of time depends on the individual and their experience. Most people meditate for 20 minutes, twice daily. One minute of meditation is better than none, and we encourage everyone to both respect their individual capacity while also pushing themselves and practicing with some discipline.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Course fees are determined by your local teacher and are on a sliding scale when necessary. A suggested donation of $200 is given to AMS for the individualized mantra practice.
DO I HAVE TO SIT IN A YOGA POSTURE TO MEDITATE?
No. You can sit comfortably or lie down to meditate. Allowing the body to be comfortable is important.
DO YOU HAVE PRACTICES FOR CHILDREN AND MOM’S WHO ARE PREGNANT?
Yes. We offer special techniques for both.
HOW DO I LEARN?
Instruction is given in a series of weekly classes or on a retreat. See Courses.
WHAT KIND OF MEDITATION DOES AMS OFFER?
Our classes cover mantra meditation, which is conducive for relaxation, candle meditation that improves focus, and other complimentary practices such as visualization, breath work, and pain management. Individual practices, which include a personalized mantra and chakra techniques, are taught by Level II instructors.
WHAT IS GURURAJ’S MESSAGE?
Today, people function with highly developed minds, yet the heart and compassionate center of ourselves is underdeveloped. Our teachings are specially designed to simultaneously develop the heart and understanding of the mind.