In the 1960s I began studying yoga with Swami Kriyananda in Northern California. Around that time, he was building a 70-acre retreat center in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Through him I learned the importance and wonder of silence. In 1969 I was able to spend five months in the mountains — totally silent — and had a major spiritual breakthrough which changed my life. I am forever grateful for the wisdom, love, compassion and understanding of Swami Kriyananda — and for the blessed silence.
Change was happening in the Bay Area in the 1960s. At that time I was studying mysticism in San Jose. My quest was to live in ongoing spiritual consciousness, not just to visit it. A friend invited me to meet the yogi Swami Kriyananda. Once or twice a week, we traveled to different centers throughout the Bay Area where he was teaching. Around that time, Swami Kriyananda bought 70 acres in the Sierra Nevada mountains and started building a retreat center.
Seeking a breakthrough, I spent five months during 1969 in a 9×12 tent at Kriyananda’s retreat site. That time in silence made all the difference — I had the spiritual breakthrough that I had long been yearning for. I left the meditation retreat changed and improved, a much happier man. The Lord blessed me through the wisdom, love, compassion and encouragement of Swami Kriyananda.
Not sure how to get started? You can begin the journey into exploring your highest potential, enjoying greater well being, and finding your true self in our First Steps videos. You’ll find numerous practices and hints for experiencing deeper meditations and enjoying a more fulfilling life.
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