Chanting, meditation, yoga and kids

“Does anyone know the meaning of Shanthi?” asks Ashok, the Director, to a group of elementary school kids who have just finished reciting a verse (or Mantra) from ancient India.  This is the Bala Vihar class, founded by the Pacific Meditation Center, a group that meets every Saturday morning, to experience the peace and serenity of ancient chants, yoga and music.

At an age where a group of kids is rarely seen so quiet and peaceful, this group of mixed-age children experience a taste of meditation, music, yoga and ancient tales in an oasis of peace and serenity, created by this dedicated group from the Pacific Meditation Center.  From the moment they enter the room, the children experience a sense of calmness, in the voice of their teacher and the expectations for the duration of the class. The kids participate in chants, ask questions about an ancient tale, perform slokas for the class, meditate and sing.

While we continually strive to equip our next generation to face the challenges of their future, perhaps our kids need the early education to bring their mind and body to a state of peace and relaxation as needed. I hope that more kids join and experience this unique program. Thank you, for creating this class, so our kids can learn to experience their Inner Being through a chant, meditation or a yogasana.

Pramila Srinivasan.