CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

Due diligence period has been finalized on the new ashram building, and after a
few small details, the closing should happen within a few days. Shortly
thereafter we will have an inauguration celebration to show everybody the new
ashram home and what improvements are being planned for the building. We'll let
you know details when available.

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: August 14, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
We remain under contract for the purchase of a 4500 square foot building as home
for the ashram (Abhyasa Ashram, Inc). It is in Fort Walton Beach just off Mary
Esther Boulevard. It will have multiple classrooms (including a 1000 sq ft
hatha, meditation and multi-purpose  room), a book store, large kitchen and
dining room, library, and ample office space. We have met with the City of Fort
Walton Beach regarding zoning and have received approval of the location for an
ashram.  Due diligence period has been finalized and after a few small details
the closing should happen within a few days. Shortly thereafter we will have an
inauguration celebration to show everybody the new ashram home and what
improvements are being planned for the building. We'll let you know details when
available.


MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
LOCAL ASHRAM ACTIVITIES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************
DAILY Silent Meditation (30 minutes): 11:30am and 6:00pm
(If you are in another city, state or country, please join us from your home if
you are free to do so at these times.) When I am traveling the meditation room
will generally be opened by Kathleen Gibson. She will also facilitate satsangs
such as Bhagavad Gita, Wednesday Noon, first Friday and third Saturday/


MON, AUG 16,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, AUG 18, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
SAT, AUG 21, 10:00am: 3rd Saturday Satsang
SAT, AUG 21, 6:30pm: Vegetarian pot luck (3rd Sat)
SAT, AUG 21, 7:00pm: Movie ("Anger Management") and popcorn

MON, AUG  23,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, AUG 25, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
FRI, AUG 27, 7:00pm: Drumming and Music (bring any instruments)

MON, AUG  30,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 1, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
FRI, SEP 3, 6:30pm: First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion

MON, SEP 6, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed by
6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 8, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
FRI, SEP 10, 7:00pm, Mantra Mela

MON, SEP 13, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 15, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm Vegetarian Pot luck
SAT, SEP 18, 7:00pm Movie ("Inner Peace in a Troubled World") and popcorn

MON, SEP 20, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 22, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
FRI, SEP 24, 7:00pm, Drumming and Music (bring any instruments)

MON, SEP 27, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 29, 12:00pm: Curriculum review gathering
FRI, OCT 1, 7:00pm, First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion


FEBRUARY in Florida (February 2011):
Daily discussions and meditations
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

OCT 30, 2010: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. Details
will be announced in the newsletter.

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Swami Rama book reviews
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link above for the latest info.

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
August/September 2010: Pittsburgh. Dates will be posted soon.
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

AUG 15, 9:30: Interactive Program: Personality post-it notes and Bhuta Shuddi
chakra meditation
AUG 15, 11:00: Speaker for main program: "Yoga the Old Fashioned Way"
AUG 29, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
SEP 12, 11:00: Speaker for main program
SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

Training the Ten Senses or Indriyas
http://swamij.com/indriyas.htm
Like a building with ten doors: In traditional Yoga philosophy and practice, the
human being is seen as being like a building with ten doors. Five are entrance
doors, and five are exit doors. Consciously, actively and intentionally
witnessing these ten senses as they function is an important part of Yoga
meditation, and meditation in action.

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

"All our worship is internal and we do not perform any rituals." ~ Swami Rama
(describing the tradition of the Himalayan masters)

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Calendar: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

This afternoon (August 17) we closed on the purchase of the new building. As
things happen with fixing up the ashram, we'll keep you informed through this
newsletter.

This Saturday (August 21) from 10am to 2pm we'll have a "soft opening" (in
contrast to a "grand opening") so that everybody can visit and see the building
and hear how we plan to use the space. We'll have beverages and snacks. From
11:30-12:00 we'll have our regular silent meditation. Bring a cushion if you can
please, as we won't yet have all the cushions and blankets transferred from the
townhouse.

Location:
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

This is immediately behind Chili's and the adjacent tune up shop on Mary Esther
Blvd. There is parking for about 20 or so cars. If the parking is full, there is
plenty of room along Hooper Drive.
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=505+Hooper+Drive,+Fo\
rt+Walton+Beach,+FL+32548&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=30.544155,56.513672&ie=UTF\
8&hq=&hnear=505+Hooper+Dr+NW,+Fort+Walton+Beach,+Okaloosa,+Florida+32548&z=16

If you are near Fort Walton Beach, I look forward to seeing you Saturday. Thanks
to all who have made this possible over past years.

In loving service,

Swami J

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: August 19, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm


**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
We have closed on the purchase of a 4500 square foot building as home for the
ashram (Abhyasa Ashram, Inc). It is in Fort Walton Beach just off Mary Esther
Boulevard (behind Chili's restaurant). Address is: 505 Hooper Drive, Fort Walton
Beach, FL 32548.

There is a "soft opening" (contrasted with "grand opening"), inauguration,
commencement celebration on Saturday, August 21, 10:am-2:00pm to show everybody
the new ashram home and what improvements are being planned for the building.
Our regular morning meditation will be at 11:30-12:00 (please bring your
favorite cushion, as we will not have a big supply of them yet).

MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
LOCAL ASHRAM ACTIVITIES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************
DAILY Silent Meditation (30 minutes): 11:30am and 6:00pm
(If you are in another city, state or country, please join us from your home if
you are free to do so at these times.) When I am traveling the meditation room
will generally be opened by Kathleen Gibson. She will also facilitate satsangs
such as Bhagavad Gita, Wednesday Noon, first Friday and third Saturday.
Effective Sunday, August 22 we will start to have the evening meditation at the
new ashram (505 Hooper Dr., FWB). Open hatha and pranayama 5:30pm - 6:00pm and
silent meditation 6:00pm - 6:30pm. We will continue to have morning meditation
at the townhouse most days, 11:30-12:00.


SAT, AUG 21, 10:00am - 2:00pm: 3rd Saturday Satsang preempted by a "soft
opening" (contrasted with "grand opening"), inauguration, commencement
celebration on to show everybody the new ashram home and what improvements are
being planned for the building. Our regular morning meditation will be at
11:30-12:00 (please bring your favorite cushion, as we will not yet have a big
supply of them yet).
SAT, AUG 21, 6:30pm: Vegetarian pot luck (3rd Sat) (townhouse, after 6:00pm
meditation)
SAT, AUG 21, 7:00pm: Movie ("Anger Management") and popcorn (at the townhouse)

MON, AUG 23: Effective Sunday, August 22 we will start to have the evening
meditation at the new ashram (505 Hooper Dr., FWB). Open hatha and pranayama
5:30-6:00 and silent meditation 6:00-6:30. We will continue to have morning
meditation at the townhouse most days.
MON, AUG  23,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala (at the new ashram)
WED, AUG 25, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, AUG 27, 7:00pm: Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)

MON, AUG  30,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 1, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 3, 6:30pm: First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion

MON, SEP 6, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed by
6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 8, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 10, 7:00pm, Mantra Mela (at the new ashram)

MON, SEP 13, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 15, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm Vegetarian Pot luck (at the new ashram)
SAT, SEP 18, 7:00pm Movie ("Inner Peace in a Troubled World") and popcorn (at
the new ashram)

MON, SEP 20, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 22, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 24, 7:00pm, Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)

MON, SEP 27, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 29, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the 505 Hooper
ashram; 11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the 505 Hooper
ashram)
FRI, OCT 1, 7:00pm, First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion (at the new ashram)


FEBRUARY in Florida (February 2011):
Daily discussions and meditations
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

OCT 30, 2010: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. Details
will be announced in the newsletter.

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Swami Rama book reviews
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link above for the latest info.

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
August/September 2010: Pittsburgh. Dates will be posted soon.
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

AUG 29, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
SEP 12, 11:00: Speaker for main program
SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

Source of Inspiration on Learning, Teaching, and
Training
http://www.swamij.com/inspiration.htm

Swami Rama has suggested that the teachings must be put "in as simple a manner
as possible," and that "the presentation should be understandable and beneficial
to all." He suggests that, "balance can be found by bringing together the two
great forces of spirituality and science," and that "problems can be solved by
creating harmony between realism and idealism." 

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

Our Himalayan tradition, though a tradition of Shankara, is purely ascetic, and
is practiced in the Himalayan caves rather than being related with institutions
established in the plains of India. ~Swami Rama (describing the tradition of the
Himalayan masters)

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Calendar: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: August 19, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm


**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
We have closed on the purchase of a 4500 square foot building as home for the
ashram (Abhyasa Ashram, Inc). It is in Fort Walton Beach just off Mary Esther
Boulevard (behind Chili's restaurant). Address is: 505 Hooper Drive, Fort Walton
Beach, FL 32548.

There is a "soft opening" (contrasted with "grand opening"), inauguration,
commencement celebration on Saturday, August 21, 10:am-2:00pm to show everybody
the new ashram home and what improvements are being planned for the building.
Our regular morning meditation will be at 11:30-12:00 (please bring your
favorite cushion, as we will not have a big supply of them yet).

MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
LOCAL ASHRAM ACTIVITIES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************
DAILY Silent Meditation (30 minutes): 11:30am and 6:00pm
(If you are in another city, state or country, please join us from your home if
you are free to do so at these times.) When I am traveling the meditation room
will generally be opened by Kathleen Gibson. She will also facilitate satsangs
such as Bhagavad Gita, Wednesday Noon, first Friday and third Saturday.
Effective Sunday, August 22 we will start to have the evening meditation at the
new ashram (505 Hooper Dr., FWB). Open hatha and pranayama 5:30pm - 6:00pm and
silent meditation 6:00pm - 6:30pm. We will continue to have morning meditation
at the townhouse most days, 11:30-12:00.


SAT, AUG 21, 10:00am - 2:00pm: 3rd Saturday Satsang preempted by a "soft
opening" (contrasted with "grand opening"), inauguration, commencement
celebration on to show everybody the new ashram home and what improvements are
being planned for the building. Our regular morning meditation will be at
11:30-12:00 (please bring your favorite cushion, as we will not yet have a big
supply of them yet).
SAT, AUG 21, 6:30pm: Vegetarian pot luck (3rd Sat) (townhouse, after 6:00pm
meditation)
SAT, AUG 21, 7:00pm: Movie ("Anger Management") and popcorn (at the townhouse)

MON, AUG 23: Effective Sunday, August 22 we will start to have the evening
meditation at the new ashram (505 Hooper Dr., FWB). Open hatha and pranayama
5:30-6:00 and silent meditation 6:00-6:30. We will continue to have morning
meditation at the townhouse most days.
MON, AUG  23,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita, followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala (at the new ashram)
WED, AUG 25, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, AUG 27, 7:00pm: Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)

MON, AUG  30,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 1, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 3, 6:30pm: First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion

MON, SEP 6, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed by
6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 8, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 10, 7:00pm, Mantra Mela (at the new ashram)

MON, SEP 13, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 15, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm Vegetarian Pot luck (at the new ashram)
SAT, SEP 18, 7:00pm Movie ("Inner Peace in a Troubled World") and popcorn (at
the new ashram)

MON, SEP 20, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 22, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 24, 7:00pm, Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)

MON, SEP 27, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 29, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the 505 Hooper
ashram; 11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time will be at the 505 Hooper
ashram)
FRI, OCT 1, 7:00pm, First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion (at the new ashram)


FEBRUARY in Florida (February 2011):
Daily discussions and meditations
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

OCT 30, 2010: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. Details
will be announced in the newsletter.

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Swami Rama book reviews
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link above for the latest info.

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
August/September 2010: Pittsburgh. Dates will be posted soon.
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

AUG 29, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
SEP 12, 11:00: Speaker for main program
SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

Source of Inspiration on Learning, Teaching, and
Training
http://www.swamij.com/inspiration.htm

Swami Rama has suggested that the teachings must be put "in as simple a manner
as possible," and that "the presentation should be understandable and beneficial
to all." He suggests that, "balance can be found by bringing together the two
great forces of spirituality and science," and that "problems can be solved by
creating harmony between realism and idealism." 

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

Our Himalayan tradition, though a tradition of Shankara, is purely ascetic, and
is practiced in the Himalayan caves rather than being related with institutions
established in the plains of India. ~Swami Rama (describing the tradition of the
Himalayan masters)

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Calendar: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: August 25, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
(These calendars are gradually being integrated into one another.)

**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
We have closed on the purchase of a 4500 square foot building as home for the
ashram (Abhyasa Ashram, Inc). It is in Fort Walton Beach just off Mary Esther
Boulevard (behind KFC, Chili's restaurant, and the tune up shop). Address is:
505 Hooper Drive, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.

We had a wonderful "soft opening" (contrasted with "grand opening"),
inauguration, commencement celebration on Saturday, August 21, 10:00am-2:00pm to
show everybody the new ashram home and what improvements are being planned for
the building. It was a joy to have 30-35 people visit, including over 20 who
were there for the 11:30am meditation. Thank you to all who are coming to make
the ashram a home away from home.

MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
LOCAL ASHRAM ACTIVITIES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************
DAILY Silent Meditation (30 minutes): 11:30am and 6:00pm
(If you are in another city, state or country, please join us from your home if
you are free to do so at these times.) Morning meditations will generally be
continued at the townhouse. Evening meditations are now held at the new ashram
location. When I am traveling the meditation room will generally be opened by
Kathleen Gibson. She will also facilitate satsangs such as Bhagavad Gita,
Wednesday Noon, first Friday and third Saturday.

**********************************
MORNINGS and EVENING MEDITATION TIMES
**********************************

MORNING: The morning meditations (11:30-12:00) will generally continue at the
townhouse for a while. Exception is Wednesday, when we will meet at the ashram
and then have the 12:00 curriculum review.

AFTERNOON/EVENING: Afternoon and evening meditations (6:00-6:30), hatha and
pranayama/breathing classes, and other later programs are at the new ashram at
505 Hooper Dr., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.

**********************************
HATHA YOGA / PRANAYAMA/BREATHING TIMES
**********************************

FIRST WEDNESDAY (Next September 1): June Enfinger will lead hatha yoga and
pranayama/breathing classes on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30am -
11:30am, followed immediately by 11:30am meditation. Curriculum review is at
12:00pm - 2:00pm.

FIRST FRIDAY, 5:00pm - 6:00pm: Tripurashakti will lead hatha yoga and
pranayama/breathing classes, followed immediately by 6:00pm meditation. Tri will
lead the class through September 24, after which she will travel to Holland and
India. She will resume this class when she returns to Florida end of December
2010.

OTHER FRIDAYs: Every Friday (other than first Friday), 5:00pm - 6:00pm:
Tripurashakti will lead hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing classes, followed
immediately by 6:00pm meditation. Tri will lead the class through September 24,
after which she will travel to Holland and India. She will resume this class
when she returns to Florida end of December 2010.

EVERY SATURDAY: Every Saturday, 10:30am - 11:30am: Tripurashakti will lead hatha
yoga and pranayama/breathing classes, followed immediately by 11:30am
meditation. Tri will lead the class through September 25, after which she will
travel to Holland and India. She will resume this class when she returns to
Florida end of December 2010.

OTHER DAYS: On other days there are self-directed hatha yoga,
pranayama/breathing from 5:30pm - 6:00pm, followed by group silent meditation at
6:00pm - 6:30pm.

MORE TO COME: Other hatha teachers have volunteered to teach and will soon be
scheduled on a regular basis. I sincerely appreciate each of these teachers for
their service: Tripurashakti, June Enfinger, Carolyn Reynolds, Kathy Tabb, and
Stephanie Penhollow.

**********************************
GROUP PROGRAMS
**********************************

WED, AUG 25, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are also at the new ashram)

FRI, AUG 27, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, AUG 27, 7:00pm: Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)
SAT, AUG 28, 10:30am-11:30: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing,
followed immediately by silent group meditation at 11:30am.

MON, AUG  30,  4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 1, 10:30-11:30am: June Enfinger, hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing,
immediately followed by silent meditation at 11:30am (June teaches every first
Wednesday at this time).
WED, SEP 1, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and practice time are at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 3, 5:00pm: Carolyn Reynolds: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing,
followed immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, SEP 3, 6:30pm: Food/snacks followed by First Friday Yoga Sutras and
discussion

MON, SEP 6, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed by
6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 8, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 10, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, SEP 10, 7:00pm, Mantra Mela (at the new ashram)

MON, SEP 13, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 15, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 17, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm Vegetarian Pot luck (at the new ashram)
SAT, SEP 18, 7:00pm Movie ("Inner Peace in a Troubled World") and popcorn (at
the new ashram)

MON, SEP 20, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 22, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the new ashram)
FRI, SEP 24, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, SEP 24, 7:00pm, Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)

MON, SEP 27, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 29, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the 505 Hooper
ashram; 11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the 505 Hooper ashram)
FRI, OCT 1, 7:00pm, First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion (at the new ashram)

MON, OCT 4, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, OCT 6, 10:30am: June Enfinger, hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing,
immediately followed by silent meditation at 11:30am.

FEBRUARY in Florida (February 2011):
Daily discussions and meditations
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

OCT 30, 2010: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. Details
will be announced in the newsletter.

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Swami Rama book reviews
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link above for the latest info.

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
August/September 2010: Pittsburgh. Dates will be posted soon.
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

AUG 29, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
SEP 12, 11:00: Speaker for main program
SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

Seven Skills to Cultivate for Yoga Meditation
http://swamij.com/sevenskills.htm

there is a vast difference between a skill and the methods or techniques that
were used to attain that skill. Think of the way an infant does many actions in
those early months and years. The child may be playing with this or that toy, or
exploring the new environment of this new world. Yet, all of the play and
exploring leads to development of a few underlying skills, such as the motor
skills of being able to hold an object in the hand, or to move the legs so as to
go from here to there.

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

We do not believe in conversion, changing cultural habits, or introducing any
God in particular. We respect all religions equally, loving all and excluding
none. Neither do we oppose any temple, mosque, or church, nor do we believe in
building homes for God while ignoring human beings. Our firm belief is that
every human being is a living institution or a temple. (Swami Rama on the
tradition of the Himalayan masters)

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
(These calendars are gradually being integrated into one another.)

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

WEDNESDAYs
12:00pm - 2:00pm: Ongoing Curriculum Review (505 Hooper ashram)
7:00pm - 8:30pm, SEP 2 - OCT 7: Six week series of self-awareness practices with
Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf

THURSDAYs
7:00pm - 8:30pm: Guru satsang. Many religious and spiritual traditions have a
special day of the week. For yogis, this day it Thursday, the special day of
Guru, which is the teaching spirit or energy. Each Thursday a separate volunteer
will present or discuss any topic or practice of his or her choice, which
enhances the journey towards Self-realization. It may or may not directly be a
topic related to Yoga. Alternatively, some weeks we will watch a video of Swami
Rama lectures. (505 Hooper Dr ashram) If you wish to volunteer or ask about
this, please contact Tripurashakti at tri@....
Aug 26: Swami Jnaneshvara: The divine feminine in yoga and daily life
Sep 2: Hubert Trimmel: Discipline
Sep 9: Tripurashakti: Witnesssing transitions.
Sep 16: Open
Sep 23: Open
Sep 30: Open
Oct 7: Open
Oct 14: Open
Oct 21: Open
Oct 28: Open

Six weeks Thursday self-awareness program just announced is Sep 1 - Oct 6.

7:00pm - 8:30pm, SEP 1 - OCT 6: Six week series of self-awareness practices with
Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf

Hatha yoga with Tri, followed by meditation is at 10:30-12:30 this morning.

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: September 2, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

ACTIVITIES PAGE: http://abhyasaashram.org
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
    (Meetup.com calendar is very user friendly to read.)

**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

RENOVATION: The roof and the air conditioning systems have been fully repaired.
Drywall repairs have been made, and now need to be taped and finished. We are
starting to do the renovation on the large meditation/hatha yoga room.

MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
LOCAL ASHRAM ACTIVITIES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************
DAILY Silent Meditation (30 minutes): 11:30am and 6:00pm
(If you are in another city, state or country, please join us from your home if
you are free to do so at these times.) Morning meditations will generally be
continued at the townhouse. Evening meditations are now held at the new ashram
location. When I am traveling the meditation room will generally be opened by
Kathleen Gibson. She will also facilitate satsangs such as Bhagavad Gita,
Wednesday Noon, first Friday and third Saturday.

**********************************
MORNINGS and EVENING MEDITATION TIMES
**********************************

MORNING: The morning meditations (11:30-12:00) will generally continue at the
townhouse for a while. Exceptions are Wednesday, when we will meet at the ashram
and then have the 12:00 curriculum review, and Saturday morning (11:30-12:00)
after the 10:30am hatha yoga class with Tri.

AFTERNOON/EVENING: Afternoon and evening meditations (6:00-6:30), hatha and
pranayama/breathing classes, and other later programs are at the new ashram at
505 Hooper Dr., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.

**********************************
HATHA YOGA / PRANAYAMA/BREATHING TIMES
**********************************

FIRST WEDNESDAY (Next October 6): June Enfinger will lead hatha yoga and
pranayama/breathing classes on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30am -
11:30am, followed immediately by 11:30am meditation. Curriculum review is at
12:00pm - 2:00pm.

FIRST FRIDAY, 5:00pm - 6:00pm: Carolyn Reynolds will lead hatha yoga and
pranayama/breathing classes, followed immediately by 6:00pm meditation.

OTHER FRIDAYs: Every Friday (other than first Friday), 5:00pm - 6:00pm:
Tripurashakti will lead hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing classes, followed
immediately by 6:00pm meditation. Tri will lead the class through September 24,
after which she will travel to Holland and India. She will resume this class
when she returns to Florida end of December 2010.

EVERY SATURDAY: Every Saturday, 10:30am - 11:30am: Tripurashakti will lead hatha
yoga and pranayama/breathing classes, followed immediately by 11:30am
meditation. Tri will lead the class through September 25, after which she will
travel to Holland and India. She will resume this class when she returns to
Florida end of December 2010.

OTHER DAYS: On other days there are self-directed hatha yoga,
pranayama/breathing from 5:30pm - 6:00pm, followed by group silent meditation at
6:00pm - 6:30pm.

MORE TO COME: Other hatha teachers have volunteered to teach and will soon be
scheduled on a regular basis. I sincerely appreciate each of these teachers for
their service: Tripurashakti, June Enfinger, Carolyn Reynolds, Kathy Tabb, and
Stephanie Penhollow.

**********************************
GROUP PROGRAMS
**********************************

WED, SEP 1 - OCT 6, 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series of self-awareness practices
with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf
FRI, SEP 3, 5:00pm: Carolyn Reynolds: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing,
followed immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, SEP 3, 6:30pm: Food/snacks followed by First Friday Yoga Sutras and
discussion
FRI, SEP 3, 7:00pm - 9:00pm: First Friday Yoga Sutras discussion.

MON, SEP 6, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed by
6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala [Note: Bombay Masala will be
closed Sep 6, so we will choose an alternative location.]
WED, SEP 8, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the new ashram)
WED,  SEP 8 (Series SEP 1 - OCT 6), 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series of
self-awareness practices with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this
file and bring with you: http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf
FRI, SEP 10, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, SEP 10, 7:00pm, Mantra Mela (at the new ashram)

MON, SEP 13, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 15, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the new ashram)
WED, SEP 15 (Series SEP 1 - OCT 6), 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series of
self-awareness practices with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this
file and bring with you: http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf
FRI, SEP 17, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm Vegetarian Pot luck (at the new ashram)
SAT, SEP 18, 7:00pm Movie ("Patch Adams") and popcorn (at the new ashram)

MON, SEP 20, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 22, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the new ashram;
11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the new ashram)
WED, SEP 22, (Series SEP 1 - OCT 6), 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series of
self-awareness practices with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this
file and bring with you: http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf
FRI, SEP 24, 5:00pm: Tripurashakti: Hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing, followed
immediately by silent group meditation at 6:00pm.
FRI, SEP 24, 7:00pm, Drumming and Music (bring any instruments) (at the new
ashram)

MON, SEP 27, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, SEP 29, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the 505 Hooper
ashram; 11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the 505 Hooper ashram)
WED, SEP 1 - OCT 6, 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series of self-awareness practices
with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf
FRI, OCT 1, 7:00pm, First Friday Yoga Sutras and discussion (at the new ashram)

MON, OCT 4, 4:00pm: Book Club, Bhagavad Gita (at the 505 Hooper ashram),
followed
by 6:00pm meditation and dinner at Bombay Masala
WED, OCT 6, 10:30am: June Enfinger, hatha yoga and pranayama/breathing,
immediately followed by silent meditation at 11:30am.
WED, SEP 29, 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Curriculum review gathering (at the 505 Hooper
ashram; 11:30 meditation and 11:00 practice time are at the 505 Hooper ashram)
WED, SEP 1 - OCT 6, 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series of self-awareness practices
with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf
FRI, OCT 8, 7:00pm, Mantra Mela (at the new ashram)

FEBRUARY in Florida (February 2011):
Daily discussions and meditations
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

OCT 30, 2010: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. From
8:00am Saturday until 8:00am Sunday, leaving time to go to the Center for
Nondualism program on Sunday morning. More info and registration is on this
flyer: http://swamij.com/pdf/retreat-101030a.pdf.

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Yoga Sutras discussion
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link above for the latest info.

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

SEP 12, 11:00: Speaker for main program
SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

Integrating and Converging Four Complementary Practices
http://www.swamij.com/complementary.htm

By practicing each of the practices of Meditation, Contemplation, Prayer, and
Mantra, these four converge into a unified force of clarity, will, focus, and
surrender.

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

People and personalities rise and fall, while the One within remains ever the
same.

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
(These calendars are gradually being integrated into one another.)

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: September 14, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

ACTIVITIES PAGE: http://abhyasaashram.org
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
    (Meetup.com calendar is very user friendly to read.)

**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

RENOVATION: The roof and the air conditioning systems have been fully repaired.
Drywall repairs have been made, and now need to be taped and finished. We are
starting to do the renovation on the large meditation/hatha yoga room.

MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
TWICE DAILY PRACTICE TIMES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
5:30pm - 6:00pm*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation

**********************************
EVENTS this WEEK
**********************************

WED, SEP 15, 10:30-11:30, Guided hatha yoga and pranayama with June Enfinger,
followed by silent meditation at 11:30am

WED, SEP 15, 12:00-2:00pm, Curriculum discussion group
WED, SEP 15, 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series (through OCT 6) of self-awareness
practices with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring
with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf

THU, SEP 16: Swami J is in New York City through SEP 20.

FRI, SEP 17, 5:00-6:00pm, Tripurashakti, Hatha yoga and pranayama, followed by
meditation.
SAT, SEP 18, 10:30-11:30: Tripurashakti, Hatha yoga and pranayama, followed by
meditation.
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm: Potluck and movie (Patch Adams).
MON, SEP 20, 4:00-6:00pm: Bhagavad Gita

**********************************
ALL ACTIVITIES
**********************************

Complete listings of activities are listed here:
http://abhyasaashram.org

**********************************
SPECIAL EVENTS
**********************************

OCTOBER 30-31: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. From
8:00am Saturday until 8:00am Sunday, leaving time to go to the Center for
Nondualism program on Sunday morning. More info and registration is on this
flyer: http://swamij.com/pdf/retreat-101030a.pdf.
 
FEBRUARY IN FLORIDA (2011): Info is here:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

CENTER FOR NONDUALISM CONFERENCE (FEB 2011): More info to come. See also:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Online discussions have been temporarily suspended until we find a proper online
service.
We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link below for the latest info.

Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Yoga Sutras discussion
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
Nov 2-4, 2010: Pittsburgh, PA (contact info to be announced)
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

The Three Streams of Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra
http://swamij.com/yoga-vedanta-tantra.htm

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra complement
one another, leading one systematically along the path to Self-realization. The
aspirant clears the mind through the practice of Yoga meditation as codified in
the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, does self-enquiry of Vedanta, and then breaks
through the final barrier with Tantra, experiencing the heights of kundalini
awakening.

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

Silence is not only the space between two thoughts, but also the space between
two key strokes.

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
(These calendars are gradually being integrated into one another.)

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

Abhyasa Ashram Newsletter:
Local activities, online meetings, retreats, other programs
Update: September 14, 2010

*****************

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga." The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa
is purposefully choosing to do that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable,
steady, undisturbed inner calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin
foundations of Yoga, along with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment
(Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means
"effort" or "striving." Thus, our community of meditation, contemplation and
learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram. More than any physical location, it is
really a place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

ACTIVITIES PAGE: http://abhyasaashram.org
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
    (Meetup.com calendar is very user friendly to read.)

**********************************
ASHRAM NEWS
**********************************
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

RENOVATION: The roof and the air conditioning systems have been fully repaired.
Drywall repairs have been made, and now need to be taped and finished. We are
starting to do the renovation on the large meditation/hatha yoga room.

MEMBERSHIP: We have three levels of involvement in the ashram, which are
described here:
http://swamij.com/abhyasa-ashram.htm#membership

**********************************
TWICE DAILY PRACTICE TIMES
(All times CST/CDST US)
**********************************

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
5:30pm - 6:00pm*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation

**********************************
EVENTS this WEEK
**********************************

WED, SEP 15, 10:30-11:30, Guided hatha yoga and pranayama with June Enfinger,
followed by silent meditation at 11:30am

WED, SEP 15, 12:00-2:00pm, Curriculum discussion group
WED, SEP 15, 7:00pm - 8:30pm: Six week series (through OCT 6) of self-awareness
practices with Swami Jnaneshvara. Please open and print out this file and bring
with you:
http://www.swamij.com/pdf/SJ-witness-100515.pdf

THU, SEP 16, 7:00pm, James Allen discussion on Feng Shui
THU, SEP 16: Swami J is in New York City through SEP 20.

FRI, SEP 17, 5:00-6:00pm, Tripurashakti, Hatha yoga and pranayama, followed by
meditation.
SAT, SEP 18, 10:30-11:30: Tripurashakti, Hatha yoga and pranayama, followed by
meditation.
SAT, SEP 18, 6:30pm: Potluck and movie (Patch Adams).
MON, SEP 20, 4:00-6:00pm: Bhagavad Gita

**********************************
ALL ACTIVITIES
**********************************

Complete listings of activities are listed here:
http://abhyasaashram.org

**********************************
SPECIAL EVENTS
**********************************

OCTOBER 30-31: Overnight meditation retreat at Ramada on Okaloosa Island. From
8:00am Saturday until 8:00am Sunday, leaving time to go to the Center for
Nondualism program on Sunday morning. More info and registration is on this
flyer: http://swamij.com/pdf/retreat-101030a.pdf.
 
FEBRUARY IN FLORIDA (2011): Info is here:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/feb-in-florida.htm

CENTER FOR NONDUALISM CONFERENCE (FEB 2011): More info to come. See also:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************
ONLINE DISCUSSION / SATSANG
**********************************
Online discussions have been temporarily suspended until we find a proper online
service.
We are exploring alternatives of service providers for the online meetings.
Please see the link below for the latest info.

Times are CST/CDST US
WED, 9:00pm, Yoga Sutras discussion
SAT, 8:30am, Satsang and Discussion
SAT, 9:00pm, Readings Satsang and Discussion
SUN, 9:00pm, Bhagavad Gita Discussion
EXCEPTIONS: When Swami Jnaneshvara is traveling, then either Kathleen or
Tripurashakti will open the meetings.

SCHEDULE and DETAILS: http://www.swamij.com/meetings.htm
(This page is also linked on the home page of SwamiJ.com)

**********************************
RETREATS IN INDIA:
**********************************
November 2010
March 2011
November 2011
Details are on the website:
http://www.swamij.com/calendar/rishikesh-retreat.htm

**********************************
OTHER PROGRAMS (Details TBA)
**********************************
September 16-20, 2010: New York City (Write to me for contact information of the
people in New York who are sponsoring the visit, or directly contact one of the
circle of people in New York if you are connected with the satsang group there.)
October 1-3, 2010: East Aurora, New York (Write to me and I'll pass on contact
information for the sponsor of the visit.)
October 12-24, 2010: Santiago, Chile
Nov 2-4, 2010: Pittsburgh, PA (contact info to be announced)
November 2010: Rishikesh, India
April 2011: Sydney Australia (and possibly Bali), sponsored by:
http://www.yogacoach.com/

**********************************
CENTER FOR NONDUALISM
**********************************
A Community for Nondual Religion, Yoga, and Philosophy
Providing a "Sunday Alternative" for the Emerald Coast
Every Sunday at:
Brooks Beal Center
100 Beal Parkway NW
Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

*****************

SUNDAY Program:
9:30-10:30 am: Interactive Program
10:30-11:00 am: Fellowship
11:00-12:00 am: Main Program; speaker, guided meditation, inspirational reading
12:00-12:30 pm: Fellowship
WEBSITE:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/
NEWSLETTER:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CenterForNonDualism/

*****************

SWAMI JNANESHVARA upcoming Center participation:

SEP 26, 11:00: Speaker for main program
OCT 10, 9:30: Interactive Program: Satsang and discussion
OCT 31, 11:00: Speaker for main program

*****************

4th ANNUAL CONFERENCE and RETREAT:
Joyously Living Nondualism
February 17-20, 2011
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

**********************************

ARTICLES:

The Three Streams of Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra
http://swamij.com/yoga-vedanta-tantra.htm

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra complement
one another, leading one systematically along the path to Self-realization. The
aspirant clears the mind through the practice of Yoga meditation as codified in
the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, does self-enquiry of Vedanta, and then breaks
through the final barrier with Tantra, experiencing the heights of kundalini
awakening.

*****************

REFLECTIONS:

Silence is not only the space between two thoughts, but also the space between
two key strokes.

PODCASTS:
Archive of audio podcasts:
http://www.swamij.com/podcast.htm

YOUTUBE:
Archives of my videos on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu
http://www.youtube.com/swamijb
Someone has also anonymously put 126 short videos of Swami Rama's lectures on
internet:
http://www.youtube.com/swamiramahimalayas

CONNECTIONS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/swamij
Twitter: http://twitter.com/swamij
Meetup.com: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/
Email and postal contact: http://www.swamij.com/contact.htm

ACTIVITIES PAGE: https://sites.google.com/site/abhyasaashram/
MEETUP.COM CALENDAR: http://www.meetup.com/abhyasa-ashram/calendar/
SWAMIJ.COM CALENDAR: http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm
(These calendars are gradually being integrated into one another.)

NEWSLETTERS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Yoga-Meditation/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AbhyasaAshram/

**********************************

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for complete schedules of daily, weekly, monthly, and
special programs. Revisions and cancellations are also listed there.
http://abhyasaashram.org

LOCATION:
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

DAILY ACTIVITIES:
The following activities occur most days, except when there are other weekly,
monthly, or special programs.

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga is seen as a systematic process
wherein we systematically deal with all levels of our being, such that body and
breath practices are an integral part of, and are intended to lead to
meditation. Therefore our schedule of daily practice times is designed so that
you have time for Asanas/Postures and Pranayama/Breath before and leading into
meditation.

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 10:00 or 10:30 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
11:30am. This earlier scheduling of classes will start after we have
transitioned from morning meditation at the townhouse to morning meditation at
the 505 Hooper Dr ashram. This will most likely shift on a day by day basis,
depending on the schedules of the individual teachers.
5:00pm - 5:30pm*: Many/most days Swami J is at the ashram at 5:00pm if you have
any questions or want coaching on your practices. Then, at 5:30pm is personal,
self-directed practice time.
5:30pm - 6:00pm: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 4:30 or 5:00 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
6:00pm.


CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

Drumming and Music - Friday, Sep 24, 7:00pm
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Hatha yoga and pranayama class with Tri at 5:00-6:00
Silent meditation at 6:00-6:30
Food at 6:30-7:00

Complete calendar of activities, maps and directions
http://abhyasaashram.org

Heart Circle - Six week series
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

7:00pm - 9:00pm, OCT 13 - NOV 17: Six weeks heart circle with James Allen and
Candace Tanner. Contact James or Candace for details. Call James at 850-225-2920
or write to them at jafengshui@....
5:30-6:00pm: Self-directed meditation preparation including stretches or hatha
yoga postures and breathing/pranayama practices.
6:00-7:00pm: Silent group meditation

Heart Circle - Six week series
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

7:00pm - 9:00pm, OCT 13 - NOV 17: Six weeks heart circle with James Allen and
Candace Tanner. Contact James or Candace for details. Call James at 850-225-2920
or write to them at jafengshui@....
5:30-6:00pm: Self-directed meditation preparation including stretches or hatha
yoga postures and breathing/pranayama practices.
6:00-7:00pm: Silent group meditation

Complete calendar of activities, maps and directions
http://abhyasaashram.org

Heart Circle - Six week series
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

7:00pm - 9:00pm, OCT 13 - NOV 17: Six weeks heart circle with James Allen and
Candace Tanner. Contact James or Candace for details. Call James at 850-225-2920
or write to them at jafengshui@....
5:30-6:00pm: Self-directed meditation preparation including stretches or hatha
yoga postures and breathing/pranayama practices.
6:00-7:00pm: Silent group meditation

Complete calendar of activities, maps and directions
http://abhyasaashram.org

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for complete schedules of daily, weekly, monthly, and
special programs. Revisions and cancellations are also listed there.
http://abhyasaashram.org

LOCATION:
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

DAILY ACTIVITIES:
The following activities occur most days, except when there are other weekly,
monthly, or special programs.

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga is seen as a systematic process
wherein we systematically deal with all levels of our being, such that body and
breath practices are an integral part of, and are intended to lead to
meditation. Therefore our schedule of daily practice times is designed so that
you have time for Asanas/Postures and Pranayama/Breath before and leading into
meditation.

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 10:00 or 10:30 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
11:30am. This earlier scheduling of classes will start after we have
transitioned from morning meditation at the townhouse to morning meditation at
the 505 Hooper Dr ashram. This will most likely shift on a day by day basis,
depending on the schedules of the individual teachers.
5:00pm - 5:30pm*: Many/most days Swami J is at the ashram at 5:00pm if you have
any questions or want coaching on your practices. Then, at 5:30pm is personal,
self-directed practice time.
5:30pm - 6:00pm: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 4:30 or 5:00 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
6:00pm.


CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

Mantra Mela - Friday, Oct 8, 7:00pm
Group chanting of some traditional mantras, including Gayatri, Mahamrityunjaya,
Panchakshara, and Om mantras.
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Self-directed hatha yoga and pranayama 5:30-6:00
Silent meditation at 6:00-6:30
Light food at 6:30-7:00

Complete calendar of activities, maps and directions
http://abhyasaashram.org

There has been a reorganization at Abhyasa Ashram: Swami Jnaneshvara is now
Chairman and President. We have four new directors (now total of 7) who I am
happy to say are primarily focused on their sadhana: Olga Garcia, Susan
Bridwell, Robin Holzer, and Lisa (Leela) Patterson. I am grateful for the
commitment to their practices and the purposes of the ashram.

Swami Jnaneshvara

http://abhyasaashram.org

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for complete schedules of daily, weekly, monthly, and
special programs. Revisions and cancellations are also listed there.
http://abhyasaashram.org

LOCATION:
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

DAILY ACTIVITIES:
The following activities occur most days, except when there are other weekly,
monthly, or special programs.

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga is seen as a systematic process
wherein we systematically deal with all levels of our being, such that body and
breath practices are an integral part of, and are intended to lead to
meditation. Therefore our schedule of daily practice times is designed so that
you have time for Asanas/Postures and Pranayama/Breath before and leading into
meditation.

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 10:00 or 10:30 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
11:30am. This earlier scheduling of classes will start after we have
transitioned from morning meditation at the townhouse to morning meditation at
the 505 Hooper Dr ashram. This will most likely shift on a day by day basis,
depending on the schedules of the individual teachers.
5:00pm - 5:30pm*: Many/most days Swami J is at the ashram at 5:00pm if you have
any questions or want coaching on your practices. Then, at 5:30pm is personal,
self-directed practice time.
5:30pm - 6:00pm: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 4:30 or 5:00 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
6:00pm.


CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

There has been a reorganization at Abhyasa Ashram: Swami Jnaneshvara is now
Chairman and President. We have five new directors (now total of 8) who I am
happy to say are primarily focused on their sadhana: Olga Garcia, Susan
Bridwell, Robin Holzer, Lisa (Leela) Patterson, and Melinda (Mindy) Broadstone.
I am grateful for the commitment to their practices and the purposes of the
ashram.

Swami Jnaneshvara

http://abhyasaashram.org

Dear Friends of the Center for Nondualism,

You may have been informed of changes with the Center for Nondualism through
various newsletters and emails. I want to personally share with you some of what
has happened recently, some mistakes I have made, and what is planned for the
future of the Center for Nondualism.

The Center for Nondualism was founded in July 2007 because the dominant
worldview in our Northwest Florida area was dualistic Christian monotheism and
there needed to be at least some small presence of a nondualistic
(advaita)/monistic worldview in the community for the few who share that
perspective. That need is still present and the Center for Nondualism will
therefore be continued for the benefit of those who like to meet with others of
like mind in a spirit of friendship and community.

One of the three directors of the Center for Nondualism along with the newest of
the council members has started a new spinoff group known simply as "The
Center", having dropped the heart of the Center for Nondualism by removing both
the word "nondualism" and the organization's orientation to that worldview. To
my knowledge no public information (such as a website or Facebook page) has yet
been made available about this group and their mailing list and subscription
information are secret (I know of this because people have forwarded me copies
of the secret newsletters). If a public presence of this group is made
available, that contact information will be made available through the Center
for Nondualism website at http://centerfornondualism.org and other
communications, including the Facebook pages and newsletters.

Unfortunately, I have made several significant mistakes during the past month
and I sincerely apologize for these mistakes. I promise you that I will work
hard to rectify the mistakes, to serve the people of the Center for Nondualism,
and to continue to make the nondual/monistic worldview available to the people
of our Northwest Florida community.

The first mistake I made was in trusting that there was sincerity in continuing
the Center for Nondualism and its statement of purpose. Rather than simply
reorganizing the Center for Nondualism in ways they wished, they have removed
"nondualism" from the Center for Nondualism. I acknowledge that I completely
missed the intent to takeover and convert the Center, its principles and people,
and its assets. I had mistakenly thought that there was a sincere wish to
continue the Center for Nondualism as such.

I also made a mistake in agreeing to allow one of the directors to manage the
Center alone without the balance of at least one other director. For a very long
time, we had been having difficulty with volunteers for various presentation
activities in the Sunday morning programs. Attendance was erratic and weekly
donations were not covering the cost of room rental at the Brooks Beal Center
where we met (we were only able to continue to pay the rent because of the
donations from the February 2010 conference). In July 2010 I let the directors,
council members, and participants know that I wished to step aside as a
director, with this to be effective December 31, 2010, which is six months
notice (I had promised that if I were to leave as a director, I would not do as
others have done and walk off without notice).

I offered to remain as a council member if that was the wish of the directors at
that time. I also explained that I intended to be available for speaking or any
other of the Sunday volunteer activities such as inspirational readings or
guiding meditations. I did this only after a very long time of asking Center
council members and participants what their wishes were in relation to the
nature of our programs, the appropriateness of our statement of purpose to their
wishes, and our style of guiding the Center. These questions have been asked
continuously during the more than three years of the Center's history,
especially in the council meetings of April and July 2010. I felt that if I
stepped aside, maybe others would come forward who wanted to share in service to
the Center and its people, and that this might also bring out new ideas for the
Center. I made a mistake and should have stayed with it until the end of
December, not allowing the one director to change the Center for Nondualism in
any way she wished.

In what initially appeared to be in the best interest of the Center for
Nondualism and its participants I gave up control over the nearly $5,000 of
accumulated donations. That money has now been appropriated by the new spinoff
group. While I am requesting it be returned to the Center for Nondualism, I
accept the likelihood that we will have to start over financially. The good news
is that we will now use the facilities of Abhyasa Ashram and no rent will be
charged for the Sunday morning meetings. Therefore, the Center for Nondualism
will not need so much money. I admit feeling unsettled about this, however, in
light of the fact that three of us have donated over $6000 in the past three
years, including over $3000 that I have personally donated. The three annual
conferences have raised substantial donations, including more than $5000 during
the February 2010 third annual conference (our next conference, if there is one,
will need to be significantly smaller due to the probable loss of the cash
reserves).

Another mistake I made was giving total access to the newsletter which was
managed through a Yahoo Group site, a benefit of which is that it allows people
to freely subscribe and unsubscribe as they wish. The first thing that they did
with the newsletter was to reduce me from being one of the owners of the site to
merely a member, effectively removing my ability to use the Center newsletter,
removing my communication with the participants of the Center. It appears they
have now abandoned this newsletter site in favor of their secret newsletter. I
am asking that they restore my access to the newsletter site. In the meantime I
have started a new newsletter site which is at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/center-for-nondualism/ . You can subscribe at that
site or simply send a blank email to
center-for-nondualism-subscribe@yahoogroups.com . Alternatively, you can contact
me and I will add your address directly.

Finally, I acknowledge that I have, in effect, given away the sound system which
was purchased through the donations to our Center for Nondualism. I am asking
that this be returned, while recognizing that it may not and that we may have to
purchase a new system if we find one is needed.

The good news which I hope even slightly counterbalances the mistakes I have
made is that access was not given to the website, the Facebook pages, or the
Meetup.com page of the Center for Nondualism. These can be found at:
http://centerfornondualism.org
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31299794351&v=info
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fort-Walton-Beach-FL/Center-for-Nondualism/1378894\
9966?ref=ts
http://www.meetup.com/center-for-nondualism/

The only regular activity of the Center for Nondualism has been a Sunday morning
program which has been publicly referred to as "a Sunday alternative" (in
addition to the three annual conferences in February). The Sunday morning
programs will continue, but with a new format that will evolve over time.
Felicia McQuiad and I will continue to guide the Center for Nondualism as it
moves forward in its new format. The next gathering of will be Sunday, November
7, 10:00-11:00am at Abhyasa Ashram, 505 Hooper Drive, Fort Walton Beach.

Exact dates, times, and details of other upcoming programs will be determined as
a result of the November 7 gathering. Those will be published through the new
newsletter, the Facebook pages, and the Meetup.com page. Please contact me if
you have any comments or questions. Despite the recent problems, I sincerely
look forward to the next phase of the evolution of the Center for Nondualism.

I understand that each person will decide where and with whom to spend his or
her time. I look forward to seeing all of the people involved over these past
three years wherever and whenever that may happen. I wish the people of the new
organization "The Center" the very best and hope they feel similarly towards the
people of the Center for Nondualism.

In loving service,

Swami Jnaneshvara

Center for Nondualism
c/o Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Dr.
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for complete schedules of daily, weekly, monthly, and
special programs. Revisions and cancellations are also listed there.
http://abhyasaashram.org

LOCATION:
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

DAILY ACTIVITIES:
The following activities occur most days, except when there are other weekly,
monthly, or special programs.

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga is seen as a systematic process
wherein we systematically deal with all levels of our being, such that body and
breath practices are an integral part of, and are intended to lead to
meditation. Therefore our schedule of daily practice times is designed so that
you have time for Asanas/Postures and Pranayama/Breath before and leading into
meditation.

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 10:00 or 10:30 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
11:30am. This earlier scheduling of classes will start after we have
transitioned from morning meditation at the townhouse to morning meditation at
the 505 Hooper Dr ashram. This will most likely shift on a day by day basis,
depending on the schedules of the individual teachers.
5:00pm - 5:30pm*: Many/most days Swami J is at the ashram at 5:00pm if you have
any questions or want coaching on your practices. Then, at 5:30pm is personal,
self-directed practice time.
5:30pm - 6:00pm: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 4:30 or 5:00 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
6:00pm.


CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.

Center for Nondualism
Sunday, November 7
10:00am - 11:00am
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

The Center for Nondualism was founded in Fort Walton Beach, Florida in 2007 as a
community for people who share the Nondual/Monistic perspective of Religion,
Yoga, and Philosophy. The purpose of the Center is to maintain a loving
fellowship and to provide a nurturing environment that is conducive to learning
and experiencing the oneness of Nondualism.

Nondualism ("Advaita" in Sanskrit; a=non; dvaita=dualism) is the orientation
that there is one absolute reality without a second, and that each of us,
although an individual person, is one with that reality, just as a wave is not
separate from the ocean. The emphasis of our Center is on the practices such as
contemplation and meditation, which lead to the direct experience of this
Nondual reality.

Participants have historically had a wide range of backgrounds and practices
including Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Yoga, Course in
Miracles, 12-Step programs and other mystical or esoteric traditions. Some have
a theistic orientation (believing in a dualistic personal god) and others have a
non-theistic orientation (not believing in a dualistic personal god). Nondualism
is inclusive of all and exclusive of none. There is no person or group of people
who are excluded from this nondual reality.

First Friday Yoga Sutras, 7:00-9:00pm, Nov 5
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

5:00-6:00pm Hatha Yoga with Carolyn Reynolds
6:00-6:30pm Silent Meditation
6:30-7:00pm Light food and snacks
7:00-9:00pm Yoga Sutras and related discussions

Complete calendar of activities, maps and directions
http://abhyasaashram.org

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for complete schedules of daily, weekly, monthly, and
special programs. Revisions and cancellations are also listed there.
http://abhyasaashram.org

LOCATION:
Abhyasa Ashram
505 Hooper Drive
Fort Walton Beach, Florida

DAILY ACTIVITIES:
The following activities occur most days, except when there are other weekly,
monthly, or special programs.

In the tradition of the Himalayan masters, Yoga is seen as a systematic process
wherein we systematically deal with all levels of our being, such that body and
breath practices are an integral part of, and are intended to lead to
meditation. Therefore our schedule of daily practice times is designed so that
you have time for Asanas/Postures and Pranayama/Breath before and leading into
meditation.

11:00am - 11:30am*: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
11:30am - 12:00pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 10:00 or 10:30 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
11:30am. This earlier scheduling of classes will start after we have
transitioned from morning meditation at the townhouse to morning meditation at
the 505 Hooper Dr ashram. This will most likely shift on a day by day basis,
depending on the schedules of the individual teachers.
5:00pm - 5:30pm*: Many/most days Swami J is at the ashram at 5:00pm if you have
any questions or want coaching on your practices. Then, at 5:30pm is personal,
self-directed practice time.
5:30pm - 6:00pm: Personal, self-directed Hatha and Pranayama
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Silent Meditation
*If there is a facilitated class, it will start at 4:30 or 5:00 at the
discretion of the teacher, and will gently transition into silent meditation at
6:00pm.


CURRENT ACTIVITIES:
(Mostly Fort Walton Beach, Florida area)

MOST DAYS, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang after.

Satsang means coming together in truth.
sat=truth; sanga=company

MOST DAYS, 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Silent Meditation; satsang before and after meditation

FIRST FRIDAY, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Satsang, topic discussion, tea and food. Please suggest a topic or a question
either directly from your readings and practices from the Yoga Sutras, or that
can be related to the Yoga Sutras in our discussions. These are informal
gatherings, which have been happening monthly since 2001. They are usually quite
fun and informative. Sometimes there are only a few people; other times it's a
bit crowded.

SATURDAY (+2), 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
On the Saturday that is two weekends after the first Friday (15 days after the
first Friday) there is satsang, topic discussion, meditation, food/prasad.
Please bring topic questions from sources such as Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, books
by Swami Rama, or articles from SwamiJ.com. (This generally falls on the third
Saturday of the month, but sometimes falls on the fourth Saturday)

PRIVATE TIME:
Please contact me to arrange private time to talk about life, meditation
practices, or to receive individualized training, such as with meditation or
breathing techniques.

FEES:
There are no fees for classes, other gatherings, or personal meetings. Donations
from the heart are gratefully appreciated, but are never solicited.

SPEAKING AND FACILITATING:
If you'd like me to facilitate gatherings at your location (near the Fort Walton
Beach, Florida area), please let me know. I'm flexible and informal about this.
There are also no fees for this.

CALENDAR:
Please visit the website for the complete calendar for descriptions. Revisions
and cancellations are also listed there.
http://www.swamij.com/calendar.htm

DIRECTIONS:
Please email or call for directions (850-796-3115).

BIO:
http://www.swamij.com/swamijnaneshvara.htm

MY YouTube VIDEOS:
http://www.youtube.com/yogabindu

ABHYASA ASHRAM:
The word "Abhyasa" means "practices." Abhyasa is purposefully choosing to do
that which leads to "sthitau," which is a stable, steady, undisturbed inner
calmness or tranquility. Abhyasa is one of the twin foundations of Yoga, along
with Vairagya, the mental stance of non-attachment (Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.16). The
root of the word Ashram is "shrama," which means "effort" or "striving." The
hermitage or home of a swami or other person serving people in their efforts
towards inner peace and spiritual awakening is called an Ashram. Thus, our
community of meditation, contemplation and learning is known as Abhyasa Ashram.
More than any physical location (especially given its tiny size), it is really a
place of the heart, an inner sanctuary of silence.

CENTER FOR NON-DUALISM
Our Center for Non-Dualism has gatherings each Sunday morning. Details about the
Center, the gatherings, location, and times are on the website:
http://www.centerfornondualism.org/

PURPOSE OF OUR ABHYASA ASHRAM COMMUNITY:

Our community of meditation and contemplation is devoted to training and
nurturing those who deeply long for the direct experience of union with the
eternal, pure center of consciousness, the bliss of being that is one with the
absolute reality, as the wave who seeks to remember it is one with the ocean.
One word for that union is "Yoga."

Yoga is traditionally taught, practiced and learned through a close relationship
between the individual mentor and mentee, teacher and student, in a community of
noble friends, known as kalyana-mitra. Guru is a force-field driven by grace, a
stream of knowledge of direct experience which, though it may operate through a
person, is itself not a person.

GOAL OF PRACTICES:

The goal of our sadhana or practices is the highest Joy that comes from the
Realization in direct experience of the center of consciousness, the Self, the
Atman or Purusha, which is one and the same with the Absolute Reality.

This Self-Realization comes through Yoga meditation of the Yoga Sutras, the
contemplative insight of Advaita Vedanta, and the intense devotion of Samaya Sri
Vidya Tantra, the three of which complement one another like fingers on a hand.

We employ the classical approaches of Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti Yoga, as
well as Hatha, Kriya, Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Nada, Siddha, and Tantra Yoga.
Meditation, contemplation, mantra and prayer finally converge into a unified
force directed towards the final stage, piercing the pearl of wisdom called
bindu, leading to the Absolute.

The activities are mostly in Fort Walton Beach, Florida or nearby communities.
Most are at Abhyasa Ashram or are graciously sponsored by other people at
different locations. While I seldom travel, there are a handful of other
activities in other cities. Please contact me if you have any questions or
requests.