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Common questions regarding Vedic Meditation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Vedic Meditation different from other types of meditation?

Broadly speaking meditation falls into two categories, concentration and contemplation. Meditations that require concentration, focus on emptying the mind, which requires effort and strain. Meditations that focus on contemplation, require imagination and forced thoughts, again resulting in effort and strain being used. Both of these techniques encourage activity in the mind, therefore not conducive to de-exciting the psycho-physiology to achieve deep rest.

Vedic Meditation is a technique which allows you to easily and effortlessly settle down the mind to its least excited state, increasing brain function and releasing stress from the nervous system.

Is this Transcendental Meditation?

Shazz teaches Vedic Meditation. She was trained by Jillian Lavender and Michael Miller. They were trained to teach by Thom Knoles.

Thom trained as a teacher of Transcendental Meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. He then taught for over 25 years with groups affiliated with Maharishi.

Thom now teaches independently of the TM organisations. He continues to teach meditation as he learned from Maharishi. Jillian and Michael teach in just the same way.

Shazz Andrew, Jillian Lavender and Michael Miller are independent teachers of Vedic Meditation. They are not affiliated with the TM organisations. Services, processes and programmes may differ.

Where are you based?

Introductory talks are offered at venues around Cornwall. When you sign up, you’ll get the full address for the evening you’re attending.

What’s the structure of the course?

Once you have signed up for the course at the introductory talk:

  • Friday: 1 hour 15 minutes at a time convenient for you.
  • Saturday: 10am – 12pm
  • Sunday: 10am – 12pm
  • Monday: 6pm – 8.30pm
    (7.30pm – 8.30pm – Group meditation)

Private courses are also four consecutive days and can be tailored to you schedule.

n.b. course length times do not change but some flexibility may be required depending on venue.

How much does it cost?

I work on the core principal that you receive from meditation what you put into it. You make a meaningful commitment of your time and resources to learn this ancient knowledge. Your commitment shows your willingness to understand this value.

The course fee is on a sliding scale depending on your financial circumstances. You can pay in instalments over three to five months. I explain all of this in detail when you come to the Introductory Talk.

Once I’ve completed the course, what kind of support do I receive?

All group meditations are free and you can attend as many of these as you like for as long as you require.

You can keep in touch with me via email and social media.

If you require a one on one consultation an hourly fee will be applicable.

When do I start feeling the benefits?

All meditation students report feeling changes straight away. Once I get you meditating, which takes place on the first day of your course, I then describe the many ways to recognise and monitor the changes you will be experiencing.

Most students express changes in calmness, energy, stress release and clarity shortly after they begin meditating.

What if it doesn't work?

There is nearly always somebody in each talk that thinks ‘What if this doesn’t work for me?’ The answer is ‘It will work for you’.

If you can think, you can meditate. Your willingness to learn and your desire for change means you will be an expert meditator in no time at all.

I can’t clear my mind of thoughts - how do I clear my mind?

If you have ever tried to stop thinking, you will have ended up thinking more.

The job of the mind is to think and if you try to stop thinking during meditation it will cause you strain and effort, which isn’t very relaxing.

The technique of Vedic Meditation means I teach you a personalised mantra, which is a sound that enables the mind to quieten.

You sit quietly and comfortably and the mantra will do the rest.

Do I have to share personal stories in group meditations?

Group meditations are an opportunity to discuss Vedic Meditation and any effects you may be experiencing.

They are an open and safe space for all students.