Contemplative Study Groups
Ātmopadeśa Śatakam & Patānjali's Yoga Sutras
These weekly contemplative study groups offer participants an opportunity to delve into the teachings of timeless wisdom texts. The orientation of the study is non-religious and geared towards extracting the deeper truths of these teachings to help us live peaceful, happy and meaningful lives. Each session begins with a 20-30 minute meditation. The remaining time is spent reading the text and commentary together and sharing our thoughts and insights on the readings. No previous knowledge of the subject matter is required.
These studies are recommended for serious students and seekers who can commit to a long-term exploration of the text. Although continuity is recommended for maximum benefit, it is not essential to attend every session as each section of the text can be taken on its own for reflection and contemplation.
Previously completed studies include Narayana Guru's Ātmopadeśa Śatakam, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Mandukya Upanishad. Sessions are offered freely and all are welcome! If you would like to make a donation, you can do so here. Please contact Gayathri at gayathri@myndtree.org directly for the Zoom link and other details.
Gayathri currently leads two groups -
Patānjali's Yoga Sutras - Saturdays 10:30 - 11:45 AM PT.
We are using Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati's brilliant commentary on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, Living the Science of Harmonious Union. Purchase of the book is recommended. This study is sure to be deeply transformative and is recommended for anyone who is wanting to understand the science of Yoga and walk the path of true freedom.
Ātmopadeśa Śatakam - Fridays 10:30 AM - Noon PT. Starts May 17, 2024.
“When meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like the flame of a lamp in a windless place.
In the still mind, in the depths of meditation, the Self reveals itself.
Beholding the Self by means of the Self, an aspirant knows the joy and peace of complete fulfillment.
Having attained that abiding joy beyond the senses,
revealed in the stilled mind, he never swerves from the eternal truth.”
~ Bhagavad Gita
I have been attending the study groups led by Gayathri for over a year now. She has excellent presence and has been instrumental in helping us deconstruct this very complex book with explanations, examples, and very practical tips. The way she leads the group is just the right balance of self-inquiry, discussion, and meditation. I feel very grateful and lucky to have her with me on this journey. Thank you!!!
I have been part of the contemplative study group for more than a year. Initially, I had gone to give a friend company to the session and truly didn't believe that it could be of any benefit to me. However, only after a few sessions, I realized that I was in a special place. Through these sessions with Gayathri, I learned to get in touch with my inner self. I learned to love myself, to appreciate the goodness in me, and to accept my shortcomings. I learned to accept others for who they are and practice giving unconditionally, because I realized that everyone is fighting their own hidden battles. I learned that to realize and express gratitude is an essential part of a content life. I learned that meditation is a powerful tool that can genuinely help achieve inner peace. I truly believe now that any desired change has to be initiated from within.
Chetna G.
Renu K.
I started with Gayathri’s study group a year ago and it is one of the best gifts I have given myself. The messages are spiritual and deep. The group interaction helps you open up and seek deep within yourself. The weekly meetup with this warm and supportive group is a treat for the soul.
I am a somewhat new member in this drop in group. I was already on a spiritual path with another community but was recommended to try this group by a friend. What has touched me the most is the friendships that have opened up for me with like minded people. That was missing in my life. I am grateful to have these sessions as a way to reinforce, re-learn and follow through on applying these important lessons - with friends to help me along.