Meditation May Change the Brain?

A new article published in the New York Times mentions that regular practice of meditation results in measurable changes in gray-matter density in parts of the brain associated with memory, sense of self, empathy and stress.

Read the entire article at How Meditation May Change the Brain.

Mantra Sadhana

Mantras and chanting have been part of spiritual traditions all over the world since centuries. These ancient sounds have a profound effect on the collective consciousness. The benefits of chanting are not restricted to the one who chants; instead they span the entire existence. Chanting of Mantras is uplifting and energizing for the environment as well as for every being that resides in it.

The Art of Living Center in Metuchen (New Jersey) organized a Mantra Sadhana (chanting) program recently. Participants learned the meaning and the correct intonations of popular ancient Sanskrit mantras. The program was conducted by Prof. V. Shastry, an instructor of the Art of Living Course, a respected Hindu priest and a professor of engineering at St. Mary's and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.

Read more about the Mantra Sadhana course conducted in Metuchen here.

Interview with Prof. Shastry



Participants shared that the course had been a truly transforming experience. Chanting the Mantras focuses the mind and brings it to a place of stillness and quiet. One of the participants noted, "I go home after chanting these mantras and they keep going through my mind and I feel so happy and so contented."

Experience of Course Participants (Part 1)



Experience of Course Participants (Part 2)

Yoga Rave 2011

The Yoga Rave movement has taken Latin America by storm. Imagine an evening of music and dance, energy and excitement, sattva and praana! That's Yoga Rave in a nutshell.

The So What Project is the team behind the Yoga Rave movement and they will visit the United States this Spring. Atlanta, Austin and Houston will be some of the cities that will host Yoga Rave events. Watch this space for more details about this spectacular music and dance event that has set Latin America on fire!

The video below has an excerpt from one of the Yoga Rave events in Latin America and a special message from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar regarding this event. Transporting youth from an intoxication that is draining to one that is enlightening... Amazing indeed.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's New Year message for 2011

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's message for New Year 2011:

May the New Year bring you laughter and joy, health and happiness!