“The time for knowing God

has come.”

ParamhansaY O G A N A N D A

Fall-Winter 2009

AnandaAnandaSangha of Palo Alto

Joy is Within You

Yours, for the asking.

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?

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

like-minded friends

spiritual journey

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.

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.

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All quotes are from Autobiography of a Yogi.

ancient

blessings

Ananda is a place where 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.

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 truthno 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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Swami Kriyananda

Swami Kriyananda (1926- ) Direct disciple of Paramhansa YoganandaFounder and Dharmacharya ofAnanda Sangha worldwide dharma = right action; that which expands consciousnessacharya = 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.”

Blessings of the Masters

Babaji“Babaji’s spiritual state is beyond human comprehension. The dwarfed vision of men cannot pierce to his transcen-dental 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; to-gether 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 mate-rialism.”

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. 5

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Sunday Satsang 10 amsatsang = 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“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.”

Fire Ceremony “No barrier exists to mergence of human with Divine save in man’s spiritual unadventurousness.”

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.”

Festival of Light“Yoga requires no formal allegiance. Because the yogic science satisfies a universal need, it has a natural universal applicability.”

Intuitive Guidance“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.

"May Thy love shine forever on the sanctuary of our devotion, and may we be able to awaken Thy love in all hearts."

Like-Minded Friends

"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

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divinity within

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.”

peace

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 divinityof their own selves.”

“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!”

To begin your journey into Kriya Yoga, please read on...

Register and prepay online and receive a 10% discount: www.anandapaloalto.org8 9 Questions and Registration 650-323–3363

“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:

BreathStart 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 pmOctober 9–30, November 6–20, December 4–18, January 8–29Saturdays, 10 am– 1 pmOctober 11, November 1, January 24Cost: $45 (3 week series) $60 (4 week series) $30 (Saturday class)

Seven Steps to Kriya Yoga

“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

Meditation Training

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Meditation Training

Step 2

EnergyTo 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, art-ists, businessmen, parents, children, entrepreneurs, and other creative thinkers and dynamic doers.

Thursdays, 7:30 November 6–20, January 8–29Cost: $45 (3 week series) $60 (4 week series)

Step 3

Devotion You are not alone. Meditation is not wishful think-ing. 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 9–30Cost: $60

Step 4 Discipleship 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.

Step 5

AUMThe 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 6–20Cost: $45

Step 6 Chakras

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 9–30Cost: $60

Step 7 Kriya Initiation

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

10 11 Questions and Registration 650-323–3363

Sadhana, Satsang, Studysadhana = 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.”

Life Training

All quotes are from Autobiography of a Yogi.

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.

10 11 Questions and Registration 650-323–3363

Life TrainingArt and Science of Raja Yoga

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.

PhilosophyPrinciples 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 YogaThe 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 ofHatha Yoga.

PranayamaUse 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.

MeditationGroup 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.

HealingAncient 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.

DietThe 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 25plus two Saturdays, 9 am— noon January 24 and February 7

Hatha yoga session, 6 pm– 7:15 pmPhilosophy 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 Clarkand Rick Bonin

“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

raja yoga = royal path

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Life TrainingThe 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.

Passage to Freedom

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.

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.

The Story Behind the Story

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.

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.

Tuesdays, 7:30 pm, October 7–28, November 4, 18, January 6–27Cost: $15 per class Instructor: Asha Praver

"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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The ChakrasYour 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

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.

Water ChakraThis 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.

Fire ChakraThis is your power. It gives you self-control, en-thusiasm, and the ability to manifest your dreams. Misused, it becomes fanaticism, self-destructive habits, or abuse of others.

Air ChakraThis 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.

Ether ChakraThis is your voice. It is your self-expression, your ability to communicate through words, images, or music. Used rightly, this energy makes you expan-sive, calm, peaceful. Out of balance, you are restless, spacey, mercurial, bored.

Super-Ether ChakraThis 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. 19Cost: $90, $15 per classInstructors: Raghu and Tyagini Clark, Tushti Conti, Rick Bonin, and Barbara Fiesterman

"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

Life Training

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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, $30Instructor: Asha Praver

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 LifeYour 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, $30Instructor: Tyagini Clark

The Law of SuccessUsing 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 deter-mination 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-power-ful, all-bountiful hands.

Saturday, 10 am— 1 pm, October 25, $30Instructor: Tyagini Clark

Finding the Spirit in RelationshipsDiscover 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 ex-perience 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: $30Instructor: Dr. Shanti Rubenstone

Register and prepay online and receive a 10% discount: www.anandapaloalto.org14 15 Questions and Registration 650-323–3363

Revelations of ChristChristmas 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 mean-ing too often obscured by sectarian dogma. Jesus was not a “fundamentalist,” he was a Self-realiza-tionist, 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, $45Instructor: Asha Praver

Classes and Seminars

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, $30Instructor: Raghu Clark

Practicing the Presence of GodAn 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, $30Instructors: Raghu and Tyagini Clark

Women's RetreatWe 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: $30Retreat leaders: Barbara Fiesterman, Tyagini Clark, and Linda Diane.

Advice to Those Who Give AdviceThe 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, $30Instructor: Asha Praver

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 transform-ing 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 com-fortable clothing.

Saturday, 10 am– noon, November 22, $30Instructor: Luca Moschini

16 17 Questions and Registration 650-323–3363

Friday Night Kirtan kirtan = devotional chanting and singing

A Joyful Noise

Expanding the LightFundraising 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”

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, 23Location: All kirtans are held at the Ananda Temple.

16 17 Questions and Registration 650-323–3363

Ananda Yoga for Higher Awareness From Movement to Stillness

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.

“Yoga combines the bodily and the spiritual with each other in an extraordinarily complete way.”

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, $30Instructor: Susan Brochin

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, $30Instructor: Lauri Moschini

Ananda Yoga & MeditationIn 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: $45Instructor: Tushti Conti

Ananda Yoga & SadhanaFoundation 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, $30Instructor: Barbara Fiesterman

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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 fi nding an oasis.

Every step of the way becomes more beautiful: verdant, fl owered, infi nitely 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 pmCost: $12/adults advance, $15 at the door, $6/children 6-12, under six freeThe cooks thank you for buying your tickets before November 21.

Celebrations and Thanksgiving quote by Swami Kriyananda, others in this section are from Paramhansa Yogananda.

Retreat Day“Yours is a glorious destiny. You are a child of the Infi nite! Every fulfi llment you ever dreamed of lies waiting for you in God. His infi nite 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 trans-forming presence of a God-Realized Master through meditation, music, and the inspirational words of the Master.

Saturday, 10 am– 4 pm, January 3

A Birthday PartyYogananda 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 fl ower on the altar, and with that offering, to affi rm the heart’s commitment to seeking truth.

Monday, January 5Meditation: 5:30 pm–7:15 pmService: 7:30 pm

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 CeremonySeize 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 fulfi llment 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.”

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 fl ower on the altar, and with that offering, to affi rm the heart’s commitment to seeking truth.

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Holidays and Celebrations

Christmas Day Family ServiceA 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

Christmas Vegetarian BanquetChrist within, and Christ in one another. This is the spirit of Ananda Christmas. Being together as a spiri-tual family, sharing a holiday dinner, plus music and entertainment. The perfect close to the Christmas season.

Thursday, 1:30 pm, December 25Cost: $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.

A Christmas Concert

Each year, we perform a concert that marks the begin-ning 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

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 com-munity. Afterwards, refreshments in front of a warm fi re. Bring your children. Dress warmly.

Sunday, 7 pm– 9 pm, December 21Location: Chela Bhavan, Ananda Community

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 fi nd 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 comfort-ably on the fl oor, including a shawl or sweater. Call for a schedule of when you can enter or leave.

Saturday, 10 am– 6 pm, December 20

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 pmService 10 pm— midnight

Christmas Celebrations

Ananda Community

A Place Where You Can Live

“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 Kriyanandadedicating 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 com-munity is created for one purpose: to provide sincere truthseekers with a harmonious, spiritually sup-portive 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) 941-9507www.YoganandaCommunity.com

Ananda Resources— Bay Area & Beyond

East West Bookshop

A Gathering Place & Resource Center for Consciousness

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 discover-ies 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 pro-gram 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 Bookstore324 Castro StreetMountain View, California 94041 650-988-9800 * 800-909-6161 www.eastwest.com

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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 cul-tivating 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 School456 College AvePalo Alto, CA 94306 (650) 462-8150www.livingwisdomschool.org

Ananda World-Wide

Truthseekers EverywhereAnanda 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.

1. We believe in a single, blissful, eternal con-sciousness, 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 in-ward, 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.

(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, IndiaBay Area Centers: Boulder Creek (831) 338-9642 * Berkeley (510) 540-6267 * Concord (925) 682-7887

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Ananda Staff

Dambara Begley, Lightbearer, teaches meditation and other classes, is a singer and kirtan leader, works in the Sangha office and is in charge of promo-tions. Marilyn Holm, scientist, artist, and holistic healer in private practice, and co-teaches with her husband Dambara.

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.

Rick Bonin, Lightbearer, arborist, Ananda Community Manager, teaches meditation, Raja Yoga, and other courses, with a particular interest is helping people with Kriya Yoga.

Lightbearer = a senior minister of Ananda Sangha

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.

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.

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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.

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 thera-pist, and black-belt in Karate, has a “day job” as co-man-ager 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.

Teaching Staff (left to right)

Surendra Conti, Lightbearer, freelance writer, co-manager of East West Bookstore, teaches creative writing as a spiritual practice. Steven Manus, minister, teaches meditation, scrip-tural 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.

Located 6 blocks north of Oregon Expressway/Page Mill650-323-3363www.anandapaloalto.org

2171 El Camino RealPalo Alto, CA 94306

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPalo Alto, CA

Permit No. 101

Ananda Sangha The Teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda

Calendar Date Class Page

October4 Sat How to Live a Balanced Life 147–28 Tues Essence of the Bhagavad Gita 128–11/19 Wed The Chakras 139–30 Thurs Meditation 1- Breath 89–30 Thurs Meditation 3- Devotion 9 9–30 Thurs Meditation 6 Chakras 911 Sat Meditation 1- Breath 818 Sat Ananda Yoga & Energy 1725 Sat The Law of Success 1425 Sat Expanding the Light Gala 16

November1 Sat Meditation 1- Breath 81 Sat Attunement: the Foundation of the Path 144–25 Tues Essence of the Bhagavad Gita 126–20 Thurs Meditation 1- Breath 86–20 Thurs Meditation 2- Energy 96–20 Thurs Meditation 5- Aum 98 Sat Restorative Ananda Yoga 1715 Sat Spiritual Relationships 1422 Sat Women's Retreat 1522 Sat Energization: Deepen Your Practice 1527 Thurs Thanksgiving Service and Banquet 18 December2-16 Tues Revelations of Christ 153-17 Wed Ananda Yoga & Meditation 174–18 Thurs Meditation 1- Breath 86 Sat Practicing the Presence 1513 Sat Christmas Concert 1920 Sat All Day Meditation 1921 Sun Caroling Party 1924 Wed Christmas Eve Midnight Service 1925 Thurs Christmas Family Service and Banquet 1931 Wed New Years Eve Meditation 18

January3 Sat Guru Retreat 185 Mon Yogananda Birthday Celebraton 186-27 Tues Essence of the Bhagavad Gita 127-3/25 Wed Raja Yoga Series 118–29 Thurs Meditation 1- Breath 88–29 Thurs Meditation 2- Energy 910 Sat The Power of Chanting 1517 Sat The Art of Counseling 15 24 Sat Meditation 1- Breath 831 Sat Ananda Yoga & Sadhana 17