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Shaktinilaya Meditation Hall

At the end of the lobby corridor is the main hall, where daily meditation as well as satsangs, courses, workshops, and chants have been taking place for three decades. Also, many Siddha Yoga Shaktipat Intensives have been held here with Baba Muktananda, Gurumayi, and Siddha Yoga Meditation Intensive teachers.

Shaktinilaya is open to everyone daily for meditation during the hours when the ashram is open, except for Saturday evening when the weekly satsang (open to everyone) takes place there. No reservations or fees are required when the hall is open for meditation. Hours may vary to accommodate special events, courses, and Intensives.

Shaktinilaya is Sanskrit for “abode of shakti,” the divine energy that underlies and enlivens all of creation. The hall was named by Gurumayi Chidvilasananda during her 2002 California Teachings Visit. Shaktinilaya is a sacred gathering place for spiritual seekers to chant, meditate and engage in satsang. Satsang means coming together for the purpose of spiritual upliftment.

Guidelines

Traditions:
• As a gesture of respect, as well as for your comfort when sitting on the floor, please remove your shoes before entering the hall.
• Please wear modest and clean attire.
• To support an environment of inward focus, women generally sit on the left as you
enter the hall and men on the right. However, couples and families are welcome to sit together.
• The chair at the front of the hall is reserved for Gurumayi. It represents the grace- bestowing energy of the Guru. Out of respect, please refrain from extending your feet towards the Guru’s chair.
• Arati is the traditional waving of a flame to a sacred form, or image that embodies the light of Consciousness. If you enter the hall while arati is being performed please wait at the back of the hall until it’s completion.
• At the back of hall is a puja, or altar, to Swami Muktananda (Baba). On each side of the hall are images of holy men and women who have influenced and inspired the Siddha Yoga tradition.
• You may place offerings in the donation box at Swami Muktananda’s puja, or in the basket placed in front of the Guru’s chair after a program.

Well-being, Comfort and Safety:
• As you enter the hall during meditation periods, allow time for your eyes to adjust to the dark before you find a seat.
• Blankets and cushions are available for your use as you enter the hall.
• In consideration of those with sensitivities, please refrain from wearing fragrances.
• Please do not enter the hall if you have a cough, cold, or other contagious illness.

Please Preserve the Meditative Atmosphere:
• Maintain silence in the hall.
• Turn off your cell phone, pager, alarm watch or anything else that beeps.
• Refrain from lying down or sleeping.
• Do not bring food or beverages into the hall. Bottled water is permitted.