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You may be thinking, “Eight hours? I can’t possibly do that—I just learned to meditate.” Or perhaps, “I don’t have the time.” If these thoughts arise, gently set them aside and read on…

Saturday, December  20, 10am-6pm

Paramhansa Yogananda observed that the inner message of Christmas is often lost entirely to shopping and outer activity.  He therefore divided Christmas in two: “spiritual Christmas,” celebrated by an all-day meditation, and “social Christmas,” celebrated by gift-giving and a festive banquet. This tradition continues today as the heart of at Ananda centers around the globe.

It’s a day dedicated to communion with Christ Consciousness—a profound opportunity for an inner experience of the Divine. Though it may seem intimidating, you may be surprised at how easily the soul welcomes long periods of deep quiet. Group magnetism carries everyone deep into meditation.

Periods of group chanting, music, and inspiration are interspersed throughout the event.

(Paramhansa Yogananda at a Christmas banquet, 1951.)

If you are unable to participate for the full day, please enter and exit quietly without disturbing others.

The first half of the meditation focuses on our meditation techniques. Periodic devotional chanting, selections of inspirational music, and readings are interspersed to inspire one to go deeper in the eternal joy of the soul.

The second half of the day has fewer interruptions, allowing people to remain deep in inner communion, enjoying the fruits of their labors.

Spiritual growth is not achieved by effort alone, but by our willingness to be present with the Guru and to try, lovingly and sincerely. When we do, grace meets us—often beyond anything we could imagine.

These Christmas meditations have lifted countless souls into unexpected joy and peace. When the day ends, you may find yourself thinking, “How was that possible? It passed so quickly.” Something within you will have changed.

Helpful Suggestions :
  • Eat a light breakfast.
  • Please arrive before 10:00am to get comfortably settled.
  • Our magnetism builds throughout the day; stay all day if possible.
  • Enter and exit silently
  • Remove jackets, cough drops, candy wrappers, or anything that crinkles before entering. 
  • Bring enough clothing/layers to be comfortable. The heat in the temple will be on, but the temperature will be on the cool side.
  • Chairs and floor cushions are provided, but you may wish to bring additional pillows or props for floor sitting if you feel you need this.
  • Bring light snacks and drinks for consumption outside during breaks.
  • Please do NOT make noise opening and closing water bottles or snacks in the temple.
Schedule for the day (Approximate): 
  • 10:00 am   Opening Prayer, Music, Chanting
  • Meditation   (40 minutes)
  • 11:00 – 11:15 am   Music & Chanting
  • Meditation   (120 minutes)
  • 1:15 – 1:30 pm   Recordings
  • Meditation   (60 minutes)
  • 2:30 – 3:15 pm   Chants, Recordings & Silent Break
  • Meditation   (75 minutes)
  • 4:30 – 4:45 pm   Recordings
  • Meditation   (60 minutes)
  • 5:45 – 6:00 pm   Recordings & Closing Prayer

Date and Timee: Saturday, December 20, 10:00am-6:00pm

Location: Ananda Thousand Oaks, 1321 Thousand Oaks Blvd., #124

Cost: Donation based. Donate with one click HERE or in the box at the center.

Happy meditating!

Ananda is a worldwide, nondenominational, nonprofit, center for meditation, spiritual growth, Kriya Yoga, and community, based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. All are warmly welcomed.