What is the difference between Vedic mantra meditation and mindfulness?
Mindfulness is being aware of the present moment which (we believe) should be the outcome of a quality meditation practice, rather than a constant process that requires continual effort. Whilst mindfulness/guided meditations are many people's entry point into meditation, Vedic mantra meditation is an effortless practice that has deep and profound results - including an increase in self-awareness and present moment mindful awareness. I.e. you naturally become more mindful as an outcome of meditating
Is this the same as Transcendental Meditation or Vedic meditation?
Vedic mantra meditation comes from the same tradition and technique as both. Our teacher, Deepak Chopra, was a key figure in the transcendental meditation movement with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi before becoming an independent teacher in the 1990's. We are not personally affiliated with either the TM organisation or the Vedic Meditation organisation headed by Thom Knoles
Can meditation really help with stress and anxiety?
Yes. And there are plenty of peer-reviewed research studies to show that. Meditation reduces stress chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline and replaces them with bliss chemicals such as serotonin and endorphins. Meditating regularly only further increases this positive chemical exchange which will improve your brain physiology, fight/flight response, reactions, emotional connection and mental clarity for the better
I have too many thoughts to meditate. Is this a barrier?
No. Our technique embraces thoughts as a natural part of the meditation process. We do not expect people to empty their mind of thoughts and think of nothing. We have successfully taught people with busy minds, constant mental chatter, those who struggle to sleep because of thoughts whizzing round, and those who have ADD/ADHD traits. Think of thoughts in meditation as stress leaving the body - it's all part of the purification process
Will I have to change my lifestyle or give up alcohol?
No. We do not expect anyone to change their lifestyle in order to meditate, and you do not need to. However, if you are looking to change your habits (stop smoking, cut down on alcohol, get fit, eat healthier etc) then meditation will provide you with a fantastic foundation to make positive change
I have a busy life. How will I meditate every day?
Our course contains lots of practical advice for how you can fit meditation into your routine. We encourage our meditators to create positive habits that enhance their life rather than make it more difficult. You may find that meditation helps you sleep better and provides more energy and focus to successfully navigate your daily routine. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world practice this technique - there is always a way to fit meditation in
I can't sit cross legged. Does that matter?
Absolutely not. If you can sit in a chair or sit with your back supported, you can meditate. A simple as that. Comfort is key!
What is the structure of the course?
Our course is 4 sessions (2 hours each) taught over 2 days. If you need us to be flexible - just let us know
Where are you based?
We are based in Leeds, West Yorkshire but we can be flexible. We are happy to look at other locations for group bookings and private one-to-one courses. Our intro talks and online courses all take place on Zoom. Our workshops, classes and in-person take place in Leeds and surrounding areas of Yorkshire unless otherwise stated.
Why should I pay to learn to meditate?
You don't have to. If you can build and maintain a consistent quality practice without learning from a teacher - that's awesome! It's important to recognise that what you're really paying for is the time, experience, expertise and the ongoing support of having an expert teach you to meditate so you can go on to practice successfully and self sufficiently. Plus, learning to meditate is an investment in yourself and the act of investing, or exchanging, is proven to directly lead to higher success rates of those who build a long and successful practice. We ask for a one off course fee and with that you get our full course PLUS free support for life.
If you have a genuine reason for not being able to afford a course, or are struggling financially, and you are as committed to learning as much as we are committed to teaching - please contact us for a chat hello@genzenmeditation.com
What support do I get once I have done the course?
Once your course is finished you will receive multiple check-ins from your teacher to see how you are getting on. We will send you an informative and supportive email every week for 12 months, plus invite you to our monthly online group meditations with teacher Q&A and an invite to our community WhatsApp group. We're here to support you to make meditation a valuable part of your life so if you ever needs us - we're available. And if all else fails you can retake the course for free!
Do you teach children?
Yes! We have taught children as young as 11 to meditate. We can teach children from around 8-9 years upwards. Our course for under-16's is slightly different to the full Learn to Meditate course, so if this is something you are interested in for your own child/children please get in touch
Is this religious?
No. Although many traditions such as Hinduism and Buddhism take inspiration from the Vedic culture of ancient India, the meditation practice itself is not religious. Think of this as a mental technique, free from any specific belief system
