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Eight-Hour Meditation

  • Ananda Temple 2171 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA United States (map)
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Saturday, December 21
10 am-6 pm

This tradition was begun by Yogananda and has become the heart of Ananda’s Christmas season. It’s a day dedicated to communion with Christ Consciousness—a profound opportunity for an inner experience of the Divine. Though it may seem intimidating, you may be surprised at how easily the soul welcomes long periods of deep quiet. The group energy carries everyone deep into meditation. There are periods of chanting, music, and inspiration throughout the day.

Come early enough to be in place by 10 am. You may bring your own meditation gear and sit on the floor, or use our chairs. Bring a blanket or sweater.

If you are unable to participate for the full day, see details below about when you can enter.


  • Come before the 10 am start, to get comfortably settled.

  • The vibration builds throughout the day; stay all day if you can.

  • If you plan to come later in the day, wait in the foyer or Yoga Center for the music breaks before entering.

  • Remove jackets and cough drop or candy wrappers before entering. 

  • Bring enough clothing and seating to be comfortable. Chairs are provided, but you may wish to bring pillows or benches for floor sitting. The heat in the temple will be on, but the temperature will be on the cool side. Bring a blanket or cushion for underneath you as well if you feel you need this. Sit near the center of the sanctuary or by a window if you tend to get warm.

  • Bring drinks or snacks for the day, which you can eat outside/during breaks.


Schedule  (times are approximate)

10 am   Opening prayer, music

Meditation   (70 minutes)

11:30 am   Music   
(you may leave/enter quietly during music breaks)

Meditation   (100 minutes)

1:30 pm   Music

Meditation   (40 minutes)

2:25 pm   Music

2:30 pm   Break for 30 minutes

3 pm   Music

Meditation   (40 minutes)

4 pm   Music

Meditation   (40 minutes)

5 pm   Music

Meditation   (30 minutes)

5:45 pm   Music, closing prayer

6 pm   End

Earlier Event: December 19
New to Ananda?
Later Event: December 22
Sunday Worship Service