Transformation
e for See insid Classes! American Meditation Institute ONLINE Updated
April - June 2020
Bringing Yoga Science to Life
americanmeditation.org
Couples Share The Benefits and Rewards of Attending Multiple AMI CME Medical Conferences “A 20 minute meditation can lower my systolic blood pressure by 10-20 mm Hg.” —Tom Diakun MD
“AMI conferences are unlike all others. They focus on the individual attendee in a personal way.” —Carolyn Conant RN
“The AMI program puts an amplifier on love!” —Craig Pratt MD
“Meditation helps improve one’s mood in uncontrollable situations.” —Dale Diakun retired teacher
“I have growing respect for the Divine in others, and am less quick to judge.” —Barry Conant DO
“I enjoyed the camaraderie, and loved the healthy food at both venues.” —Colleen Opremcak MD See p. 9 -13 for the complete interviews
Register Today! 12th annual Heart and Science of Yoga®
2020 PHYSICIANS’
32 CME CONFERENCE
CALENDAR
Because of the National COVID-19 Social Distancing Policy the following classes will be held online! Please note that all class times are in EST.
STAY CONNECTED ONLINE! FREE: SUNDAY GUIDED MEDITATION & SATSANG WiTh LEonard (ram LEv) and JEnnESS Don’t remain isolated from your Higher Self and spiritual community.
meditation • mantra Science • Chakras diaphragmatic Breathing • neuroplasticity Yoga Psychology • ayurvedic medicine mind Function optimization • Easy-Gentle Yoga Lymph System detox • Yoga nidra • nutrition Practices to Relieve Physician Burnout Wyndhurst Manor at Miraval, Lenox, MA
OCTOBER 20-24, 2020 For Details: (518) 674-8714
americanmeditation.org/cme
All Gourmet Vegetarian Meals Included
Testimonials
“Life changing! Everyone in every facet of life should experience this. i’m so grateful for you and your institution and all involved for bringing truth to doctors with love and compassion. This is a light the world needs to see.” P.S. MD, RI “This course has been the best CmE course i have ever attended. and i’m already using these skills every day since the conference.” V.Q. MD, NYC
Sundays 9:30-11:00 AM EST No experience necessary. Open to the general public. A FREE recording will be emailed each following Monday.
APRIL 2019
APR 15- MAY 20: AMI MEDITATION see p. 3-5
Online Only! Wed. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM EST(6 wk)
APR 27-JUN 8: GITA/YOGA PSYCHOLOGY Excl. May 25, see p.6 Online Only! Mon. Nights, 6:30 - 8:30 PM EST (6 weeks)
MAY 2019
see p. 6
Online Only! Thurs. Nights, 6:30 - 8:30 PM EST (2 weeks)
MAY 7 & 14: YOGA SCIENCE LAB
see p. 6
Online Only! Sat. Afternoon, 2:30 - 4:30 PM EST (1 day)
MAY 16: THE COMPASSIONATE BUDDHA
MAY 27- JUL 1: AMI MEDITATION see p. 3-5
Online Only! Wed. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM EST(6 wk)
JUNE 2019
JUN 15- JUL 20: SACRED JOURNEY see p. 7 Mon. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM (6 weeks)
JULY 2019
Sun. Night, 7:00 - 10:00 PM
JUL 5: GURU PURNIMA FIRE CEREMONY Thurs.-Sun. see p. 15
JUL 16-19: SUMMER RETREAT Scan Here The AMI Core Curriculum is also endorsed by:
Dean Ornish MD Bernie Siegel MD, Larry Dossey MD, Dr. Oz (Mehmet Oz MD)
Directions to A MI • 60 Garner Road
I-90 Exit #8 (Rt. 43 E). Take Rt. 43 for 4 1/2 miles. In W. Sand Lake, turn right at light onto Rt. 150. Go 1 mile on Rt. 150. Turn left turn on Cnty Rd #52/Sheer Rd (at stone wall). Go 1 mile on Sheer Rd and bear left at fork onto Garner Rd. AMI is the 3rd house on the right.
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American Meditation Institute
Bringing Yoga Science to Life April - June, 2020 • Vol. XXIII No. 3 ©2020 60 Garner Road, Averill Park, NY 12018
americanmeditation.org \ Tel. (518) 674-8714 ami@americanmeditation.org AMI is a tax exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 educational organization. Donations are fully tax deductible.
AMI Classes for April - June 2020
AMI MEDITATION SPIRIT
MI ND
DY BO
THE FOUNDATION COURSE OF YOGA SCIENCE TAUGHT BY LEONARD PERLMUTTER (RAM LEV)
A TRANSFORMATIVE & EMPOWERING SELF-CARE PROGRAM
UNITING MIND, BODY & SPIRIT
Five to six thousand years ago, certain women and men embarked on a journey of self-inquiry, self-discovery and self-care through self-direction. By experimenting with scientific meditation techniques, they learned how to establish a state of yoga (unity and balance) in mind, body and spirit. Today, that ancient lineage of wisdom is represented by the practices and principles taught in this Foundation Course.
A MI MEDITATION’s Transformative Learning
What do you see? Two faces in silhouette, or a wine goblet? Both are there, but you can only see one at a time. Most people see only one image unless they’re prompted to look again. The AMI MEDITATION course will enable you to see yourself and your world from a fresh perspective and with a higher purpose in mind. With this new, clearer vision you can begin to reliably access and employ your own inner wisdom from the superconscious mind. As your practice deepens, you’ll soon find yourself becoming more insightful, self-reliant and self-confident to make decisions that creatively resolve challenging situations and relationships.
This curriculum is endorsed by medical pioneers Dr. Oz (Mehmet Oz MD), Dean Ornish MD, Bernie Siegel MD, Larry Dossey MD
Purposes of AMI MEDITATION Curriculum
The AMI MEDITATION course will not only teach you how to limit and eliminate stress. It will help you create your own personal philosophy of life, and provide you the practical tools to make conscious, discriminating choices that will positively affect all your personal and professional relationships. The additional purposes of this course include: Strengthening your physical and psychological health Managing, reducing and transforming the energy of stress Honoring emotional and spiritual needs More details on AMI MEDITATION Fostering and sustaining relationships see pages 4-5
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A MI MEDITATION: Case Study Results AMI Classes for April - June 2020
In 2008, AMI conducted a retrospective case study of participants who completed Leonard Perlmutter’s AMI MEDITATION Heart and Science of Yoga ® Self-Care Program.
The findings included these positive, life-enhancing, health-promoting changes: • reduced cholesterol levels • Significant reductions in stress and fear • improved energy levels • diminished or extinguished • increased creative capacity • decreased anxiety and depression acute and chronic pain • diminishment of migraine headaches • Lowered blood pressure • Weight loss • decreases irritable bowel symptoms • Lowered heart rate • increased breathing capacity • Enhanced happiness and optimism • improved restorative sleep
Your Personal Yoga Science Tool Bag
The AMI MEDITATION course will provide you with a set of 36 essential survival tools. When you choose and employ the right tool in the situations you face, you’ll be able to transform the energy of stress into positive energy, will power and AMI creativity. The tools you receive will enable you to know the Yoga Science Tool Bag Truth of who you are, and with that profound knowledge, you’ll increasingly be able to make the best choices for reducing stress and enhancing your total well-being. By employing the tools learned in this course, you will be able to fulfill all your personal and professional commitments more effectively and rewardingly.
Curriculum Overview: A MI MEDITATION The curriculum for AMI MEDITATION is based on the award-winning book, The Heart and Science of Yoga® by Leonard Perlmutter
Seated AMI Meditation • Mantra Science Diaphragmatic Breathing • Yoga Psychology Mind Function Optimization • Easy-Gentle Yoga Lymph System Detox • Nutrition • Ayurvedic Medicine
YOGA SCIENCE––WEEK 1 how to use the mind for the best choices how to create new, healthier habits Understanding pain as an agent for healing increasing energy, will power & creativity antidotes for worry, stress and depression AMI MEDITATION––WEEK 2 Systematic procedure for Ami meditation diminishing distractions with mantra science Learning the one-minute meditation Building focus, fearlessness, and strength BREATHING TECHNIQUES––WEEK 3 Breath as medicine how breathing irregularities foster dis-ease Complete (three-part) yogic breath 4
YOGA PSYCHOLOGY & AYURVEDA––WEEK 4 how the mind supports optimal health The power of the present moment Building and healing relationships introduction to ayurveda EASY-GENTLE YOGA EXERCISES––WEEK 5 Yoga stretches to benefit: muscles, joints, glands and internal organs Physiological benefits of yoga postures MIND /BODY CARE PLAN––WEEK 6 The healing power of prayer The practical benefits of contemplation Creating a therapeutic care plan for yourself Learning to budget your time integrating spiritual beliefs into daily life
Leonard Perlmutter AMI Founder
americanmeditation.org • Tel. (518) 674-8714
The AMI MEDITATION Foundation Course was developed and is taught by Leonard Perlmutter. Leonard is a noted educator, philosopher, Yoga scientist and founder of The American Meditation Institute. He is the author of The Heart and Science of Yoga® and the mind/body medicine journal, Transformation. He has studied in Rishikesh, India and is a direct disciple of Swami Rama of the Himalayas––the man who, in laboratory conditions at the Menninger Institute, demonstrated that blood pressure, heart rate and the autonomic nervous system can be voluntarily controlled. Leonard’s lectures are enlivened by his inspiring enthusiasm, vast experience, humor and clear teaching style. He has taught at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, The New York Times Yoga Forum, Kaiser-Permanente and the U. S. Military Academy at West Point.
Inner Wisdom
Superconscious Mind
YOGA SCIENCE UNION
Outer Action
Thoughts Words Deeds
At the first class you will learn to create and employ your own “Bridge of Yoga.” Then, as your outer actions (thoughts, words and deeds) are based on your inner wisdom (conscience), you’ll always be led for your highest and greatest good. And there will be no cause for worry.
A MI MEDITATION Classes
Medical Accreditation PHYSICIAN ACCREDITATION (15 CMEs)
americanmeditation.org/physician-cme This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential areas and Policies of the accreditation Council for Continuing medical Education through the joint providership of albany medical College and The american meditation institute. albany medical College is accredited by the accreditation Council for Continuing medical Education (aCCmE) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The albany medical College designates this Live activity for a maximum of 15 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits Tm. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
NURSING CONTINUING EDUCATION (15 contact hours) americanmeditation.org/nursing-continuing-education This continuing nursing education activity was approved by the american nurses association massachusetts (ana maSS), an accredited approver by the american nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on accreditation.
UPCOMING ONLINE CLASSES Because of the National COVID-19 Social Distancing Policy the following classes will be held online! Please note that all class times are in EST.
April 15-May 20 Wednesday Nights May 27-July 1 Wednesday Nights
ONLINE ONLY! 6:30pm-8:30pm EST, $595.
(6 WKS)
Physicians $895; PAs, NPs: $795; RNs: $695
Required Texts: The Heart and Science of Yoga ® The Art of Joyful Living
Registration Includes: Lifelong support, a 20-minute CD & digital Guided Meditation, a copy of The Physiology of EasyGentle Yoga, and a complementary subscription to AMI’s quarterly publication, Transformation, the journal of meditation as mind/body medicine.
HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE
Call us to discuss how your Health Insurance plan might cover this program.
STILL NOT SURE? Call Leonard for a free personal consultation at (518) 674-8714. 5
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americanmeditation.org • Tel. (518) 674-8714
COMPASSIONATE BUDDHA
* II: (Offered once a year) LEVEL
The Healing Power of Thoughts Leonard and Jenness Perlmutter
Available by CDL (Computer Distance Learning)
The Compassionate Buddha, one of our most practical yogic teachers, prescribes the practice of meditation as mind/body medicine. From the very first line of the Dhammapada, “Our life is shaped by our mind; we become what we think,” the Buddha explains what leads to joy and health, and what leads to disease and sorrow. Then he explains how to take our lives into our own hands. Without esoterica or metaphysics, without appeal to anything magical or superhuman, the Buddha encourages us to experiment with our minds; to coordinate the four functions of the mind just as Patanjali (the codifier of Yoga Science) suggests, so that we can experience lasting health, happiness and security.
SATURDAY AFTERNOON, 2:30 - 4:30PM, $95. MAY 16 ONLINE ONLY!
Ne w ! YOGA SCIENCE LAB
How to Practice Meditation-in-Action Valerie Chakedis, Mary Holloway MT Prerequisite: Completion of AMI Meditation
LEVEL II: In this new, interactive workshop you’ll take all the tools and knowledge you learned in the AMI Meditation course and put them into practice by conducting your own “Meditation-In-Action” experiments. Using a game board to facilitate learning, you’ll discover how easy, rewarding and fun this process can be. This is a supportive environment where you’ll receive continual, positive feedback from group leaders and participants. As you experiment with the Truth of the conscience (buddhi), you’ll develop decisionmaking skills that will enhance your confidence in all relationships. The course provides a Yoga Science notebook, handouts and practical insights for daily living.
THURSDAY NIGHTS, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, $125. (2 WKS) MAY 7 AND 14 ONLINE ONLY!
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YOGA PSYCHOLOGY BHAGAVAD GITA STUDY
Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter
Available by CDL (Computer Distance Learning) Attend this in-depth course from your own home or anywhere in the world. Call 518.674.8714 for details.
LEVEL II: In continuous six week installments this course presents the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita as a handbook on the science of life and the art of living. If you are seeking a manual or guide for the supreme task of living creatively in the world today, this ongoing study will provide you practical wisdom, meaning and purpose for your life. Each week Leonard and Jenness will teach you how to reduce stress and confidently enhance your health and creative abilities, while providing you a fresh, positive perspective on all your family and business relationships.
MONDAY NIGHTS, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, $150. (6 WKS) APR 27 - JUN 8 ONLINE ONLY! EXCLUDING MAY 25
MORNING YOGA FOR FIFTY PLUS Melanie (Uma) Gloeckner RYT
This class is cancelled until further notice! Level I: Yoga for healthy aging focuses on: developing increased flexibility and strength, improved balance, endurance and breath, reduced stress, relaxation and greater energy. WED. MORNINGS, 9:45-11:15AM ($40-$50/MONTH)
FREE SUNDAY A MI MEDITATION
Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter
LEVEL I: Join AMI’s FREE 20-minute guided meditation and satsang teaching. Participants may sit on comfortable chairs or on the floor. SUNDAYS, 9:30 - 11:00AM, FREE ONLINE ONLY!
PERSONAL COUNSELING
Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev), AMI Founder Int’l. Association of Yoga Therapists
AMI HOME CENTER, By appointment. $150/hr.
AMI Classes for April - June 2020
The Heart and Science of Yoga®
2020 SUMMER RETREAT
Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev), AMI Founder
AMI’s 20th annual retreat July 16-19 will present the same comprehensive core curriculum as the AMI MEDITATION course (pgs. 3-5). These time-tested practices are designed for both the general public and medical professionals. Attending physicians, PAs, RNs and NPs receive 18 CME credits. Gourmet vegetarian meals are included. FOR MORE INFORMATION: TEL. (518) 674-8714
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americanmeditation.org/summer-retreat
SACRED JOURNEY
Living Purposefully and Dying Gracefully
Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter
Available by CDL (Computer Distance Learning) *Level II: To understand the purpose of life, we
must try to understand the relationship between life and death. The two are partners––each providing a context for the other. Death is not the end, but merely a pause in an eternal journey. When both birth and death are understood and accepted as parts of the human journey, the fear of death subsides and life can be lived more fully and joyfully. Based on the ancient Katha Upanishad, this course reveals how to organize your life in a way that leads to expansion and growth. Every student with a body is encouraged to attend.
Required text: Sacred Journey, by Swami Rama
MONDAY NIGHTS, 6:30 - 8:30PM, $150. (6 WKS) JUN 15 - JUL 20 ONLINE ONLY!
NOW AVAILABLE AMI Bookstore Barnes & Noble Amazon.com All Fine Booksellers
NISARGADATTA MAHARAJ
An important teacher of non-dualism for Leonard and Jenness, Nisargadatta was the author of the yogic classic, “I am That.” (1897-1981)
“It is always the false that makes you suffer, the false desires and fears, the false values and ideas, the false relationships between people. Abandon the false and you are free of pain; truth makes happiness, truth liberates.”
“Begin by letting thoughts flow and watching them. That observation slows down the mind until it stops altogether. Once the mind is quiet, keep it quiet. Don’t get bored with peace of silence, be in it, go deeper into it.” “If you could only keep quiet, clear of memories and expectations, you would be able to discern the beautiful pattern of events. It’s your restlessness that causes chaos.”
“Suffering is due entirely to clinging or resisting. It is a sign of our unwillingness to move on, to flow.” “You will receive everything you need when you stop asking for what you do not need.”
“Nothing can trouble you but your own imagination.”
“You identify yourself with your desires and become their slave.” “Suffering is a call for inquiry, all pain needs investigation.”
“Once you say ‘I want to find Truth,’ all your life will be deeply affected by it. All your mental and physical habits, feelings and emotions, desires and fears, plans and decisions will undergo a radical transformation.”
“Look at your mind dispassionately; this is enough to calm it. When it is quiet, you can go beyond it. Do not keep it busy all the time. Stop it––and just be. If you give it a rest, it will settle down and recover its purity and strength. Constant thinking makes it decay.”
“All that a guru can tell you is: ‘My dear, you are quite mistaken about yourself. You are not the person you take yourself to be.’”
“Once you realize that the road is the goal and that you are always on the road––not to reach a goal, but to enjoy its beauty and its wisdom, life ceases to be a task and becomes natural and simple, in itself an ecstasy.”
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REDISCOVER YOUR LOVE OF MEDICINE & LIFE! 12th Annual Conference for Physicians • PAs • NPs • RNs Physicians • PAs • NPs •
32 CMEs
THE ONLY COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING IN
YOGA SCIENCE AS HOLISTIC MIND/BODY MEDICINE
The Heart and Science of Yoga
®
Ami mEdiTaTion • mantra Science • diaphragmatic Breathing • Yoga Psychology mind Function optimization • Easy-Gentle Yoga • Lymph System detox • Chakra System Yoga nidra • ayurveda • Food as medicine • Epigenetics • resilience • neuroplasticity mind/Body research • Positional Therapy
Bringing Yoga Science to Life
OCTOBER 20-24, 2020
Albany Medical College
WYNDHURST Bernie Siegel MD New BONUS WORKSHOP
5 1/2
at
MANOR & CLUB
berkshires
FORMERLY THE CRANWELL • LENOX, MA
Michael Greger MD “How Not to Die” Food as Medicine
Space is LIMITED
HR
Online Video Course & Book
Please Register EARLY!
FREE ! Rejuvenate • Learn • Network • Share • Grow
americanmeditation.org/cme
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Scan Here
$200 DISCOUNT Early Bird Special
All Gourmet Vegetarian Meals Included
Tom and Dale Diakun
The Diakuns live in Buffalo, NY. Tom is a practicing MD in Anesthesiology, and Dale is a retired teacher.
Carolyn and Barry Conant
The Conants live in South Dennis, MA where Carolyn is a retired RN, and Barry is a DO in Internal Medicine.
Craig Pratt and Colleen Opremcak
Craig and Colleen are both MDs practicing Psychiatry. They live in West Jefferson, OH.
Couples Share the Rewards and Benefits of Attending Multiple CME Medical Conferences Over the past eleven years several couples have attended multiple AMI medical conferences and retreats. We invited three of these alumni couples to share the rewards they’ve found. Their comments describe how Yoga Science as holistic mind/body medicine has affected their professional and personal lives. Their diverse perspectives underscore the range of benefits awaiting anyone attending these conferences. AMI’s questions were prepared by Beth Netter MD, Chair Emeritus of AMI’s Department of Medical Education.
AMI: What did you appreciate about attending AMI’s physicians’ conferences together?
Tom and Dale: We enjoy the connectedness that comes with traveling the path together. Doing the conferences together, we have a shared knowledge and a common practice and language with which to articulate our experiences. With both of us doing it together, we can encourage and support each other. There will always be days when it is not convenient to meditate. This can be a slippery slope––one missed day leads to another and another and eventually causes one to stop meditating entirely. By each encouraging the other to do daily meditation, we have so far avoided that slippery slope. There is comfort in knowing that we are growing together. Unfortunately, some spiritual practices, if embraced by one but not both members of a couple, can cause the two to grow apart. By doing this together we continue to travel the path together.
Barry: The opportunity to have undistracted time to focus on spiritual things in a group setting, then having time for the two of us to discuss it privately and explore ideas for enriching our life together. Carolyn: The AMI conferences are unlike any other physicians’ programs in that they focus on the attendee in a personal way.
Craig: The topic of our first conference was burnout. I was burned out, and I cannot overemphasize the profound effect the experience has on resilience, cognition, motivation, and wanting to return to clinical work. Prior to returning to a life of service working with struggling physicians, I had spent 14 years doing end-of-life care in a large hospital system, and in one of the highest volume palliative programs in the country. People who were aware I was about to retire, asked what I would do. I responded that, based on this new wintery stage I’m moving into, I’d best do some preparation for the stage after that: my corporal death. I have had meditation and life experiences that have informed me of the immensity beyond our physical boundaries, but have never before had a philosophy of life that provided me such clear direction. The beauty of a place like AMI is the coherent validation of all the subtle hints from our own inner wisdom. I found in these retreats a safe place to consider issues 9
of mortality with the woman and colleague I love and among friends who had weathered similar ordeals. We were all ready to learn about the true nature of our Consciousness. Colleen: I especially enjoyed the camaraderie among the attendees and presenters at both the physician conference and the summer retreat in Averill Park, and appreciated the availability and openness of both Leonard and Jenness to questions from the participants. And I loved the healthy food at both venues! The summer retreat was wonderful with the hospitality Leonard and Jenness showed in their home, with its comfortable atmosphere and beautiful grounds with gardens and forest paths. And I loved the music Leonard played on the stereo and Jenness’s artwork that hangs throughout the house.
AMI: How has your experience of attending AMI’s physician conferences or summer retreats together changed over the years ?
Tom and Dale: We have attended two physicians’ conferences, in 2017 and 2019. Starting out after the first conference, we tended to intellectualize what we were doing. It was somewhat rigid and sometimes just “going through the motions.” I agreed to participate in the six month AMI Meditation Research Study in 2017 in order to have a goal that would keep us doing the meditation regularly. Over the course of two years of daily meditation, the changes were slow and subtle. By the second course, our take on the course was much more experiential. It was no longer just words on a page, but having actually lived it, we felt we knew what you were talking about on a deeper level.
Barry: Growing familiarity with the terminology and concepts made it easier the second time to get deeper into what resonated at soul level, rather than struggling to understand definitions. Carolyn: The conferences have always been special times for sharing and learning as a couple. Conversations between us are deepening, with ongoing, open spiritual discussions about the part of us that never dies.
Craig: We’ve been involved with AMI for 10
three years and hope to make annual treks. My experience of AMI hasn’t changed particularly. I appreciate the constancy and consistency of the message, coupled with the experience. Colleen: Attending the summer retreat after the conference was very helpful. Hearing the material again in a smaller, more intimate setting reinforced what I learned at the first conference in a powerful way.
AMI: What is the nature of your AMI Meditation practice now?
Tom and Dale: We do daily meditation. Mostly together, but sometimes apart. We use a modified version of Leonard’s guided meditation. It gives us a positive way to start each day, and focus on the tasks of the day without anxiety. I [Tom] have found that a 20 minute meditation can lower my systolic blood pressure by 10-20 mm Hg. Meditation helps us be able to sacrifice preya [unhelpful] thoughts and talk through little problems before they get entrenched and become big problems.
Barry: I’m meditating infrequently with the mantra, but use other practices more often. Meditation is my best reminder of who and what I am, and who and what I am not. It helps me stay in the mindset that I am a drop in the ocean of Consciousness that is eternal. I am reminded that I am not inconsequential in my daily life, and that I can share love energetically––instead of fearing. Meditation allows me to be less consumed with the external aspects of my relationship with Carolyn, and more aware of the Divine within my wife and our relationship. It reminds me we are joined in love, but still have our individual journeys to walk. Carolyn: We mostly meditate separately. I meditate with my mantra, and follow the guided method taught by AMI, but not every day. I have no excuse, and many excuses.
Craig: I know that meditating together would be beneficial, and I am working on finding a similar discipline to Colleen’s. The best part of our relationship is knowing we are traveling by the same map and going in the same direction, as one unit. When we get to where we are going, we are both in accord
with where we are and what we will do there––as we share the same vision. Colleen: I feel a deep sense of connectedness with Craig when we sit together in meditation, knowing we are taking the time for important self care together. We usually talk afterward about the experience, what came up for each of us. The dialogue is always gratifying. AMI: Do you currently do any other AMI Meditation practices? If so, what results have you experienced?
Tom: We meditate daily, use breath awareness as needed during the day to relieve stress, japa [repetition of the mantra] to fill empty times and to make tedious waits easy, and Easy-Gentle Yoga I and II occasionally, but not regularly. These practices are all very helpful in accepting stressful aspects of the workplace, and in just moving on to get the job done. Dale: Meditation helps disempower stressful situations and improves mood when circumstances cannot be controlled. The practice helps us allow other people to just be who they are without judging them or needing to change them.
Barry: Breath awareness, eating in silence and mindful walking. As a consequence I have improved digestion, more tolerance for others, and stay calmer in the office. Concerning our marriage, I’m less co-dependent, have more respect for Carolyn’s independence and individual journey. I have less need to control circumstances, less black and white, and more reliance and respect for the two different approaches we may take. In other relationships I am more keenly aware of the Divine in those I meet, and more prone to learn from them––less quick to make snap judgments, and to pigeonhole people. Carolyn: I use the following Yoga Science tools: breath awareness, diaphragmatic and alternate nostril breathing for relief of anxiety, Easy-Gentle Yoga for improved range of motion, and the Bridge of Yoga because it encourages me to consult with the buddhi’s inner wisdom [conscience] to serve the shreya [helpful] and sacrifice the preya in determining my thoughts, words and deeds. All these tools fortify in times of weakness.
Craig: The clarity of Yoga Science brings a great deal of beauty and color to our bond. The depth it adds to our appreciation of nature and the experiences of synchronistic events (which we have all the time) has made us more attentive to NOW and to each other. It puts an amplifier on love! Colleen: I consult the buddhi daily when faced with decisions and it is so helpful. Serving the shreya and sacrificing the preya are such a part of my thought process now it’s hard to recall how I made decisions previously. Listening to my mantra has become an integral part of my day, whether I’m cooking food or cleaning or awake in the middle of the night or feeling emotions that are distressing. And when I walk alone I listen to my mantra. Again, I don't know what I did before this and am so grateful to have these practices in my life. I also read spiritually oriented books daily. Last year I read all of Eknath Easwaran which was very inspiring. Craig has collected spiritual books for many years so we have a large library. We talk together about our readings which I really enjoy as a deepening part of our relationship. I feel more calm, secure and grounded with these practices. My anxiety has decreased significantly (I used to have trouble flying on airplanes because of panic attacks and don't have that struggle anymore as I know I have my mantra and can meditate). I am more tolerant with Craig when he has opinions that differ from mine and don’t become angry like I used to when there are emotionally charged conversations. I am less judgmental and try to understand others with different opinions and values from my own.
AMI: What positive changes have you noticed in your relationship with your spouse where you have been emotionally triggered, and what AMI Meditation tools did you use?
Tom and Dale: Most of the emotional triggers we have experienced over the years have been due to the actions or decisions made by other people, outside of our relationship. The most important tool is the cultivation of onepointed attention which allows us to choose which thoughts we give our attention to, 11
guided by the buddhi to choose the optimum beneficial thoughts. In the past anger was hard to let go of. Now, with Yoga Science, it’s much easier to let go of our judgments and just let things be what they are.
Barry: As a result of my meditation practice, I react less in a knee-jerk fashion when actions seem inconsistent with “prior agreements.” Carolyn: A year ago we were involved in a misunderstanding with our children. They were attacking me for something I could not understand. Barry was also shocked, and held me and said, “Breathe.” Immediately my AMI training filled me with knowledge that this situation was a temporary, life-learning lesson. And the entire misunderstanding was resolved within about thirty minutes with conversations.
anxieties allows me to focus and clearly deal with the situation at hand. According to others, I can be “an island of calm” in OR chaos.
Barry: In my clinical interactions with patients I am able to distance myself from their ultimate decision making and the consequences thereof. My self esteem is no longer affected by whether or not patients are “in harmony” with my attempts to help them, or if my patients seem to have their emotional needs met during the office visit. I allow for karmic influences in these situations. Carolyn: All the tools learned during the AMI conferences have helped me in challenging situations. Knowing there’s a damaging physical reaction from my emotional states, I can be in control when I engage these tools.
Craig: This interview has helped me realize that I add value to Colleen’s practice by our consistently meditating together, and I will return to doing so with greater intentionality. Everything just works better when we do it together––in work, parenting, grandparenting, and colleague interactions. Our visible, loving relationship is infectious. It’s a gift from us, and it’s exceptionally good for us. Colleen: Fortunately, we have a relationship that’s emotionally supportive to one another. We respect, strive to understand, and love one another unconditionally. Where we differ in opinion I’m now able to listen without becoming reactive or angry, or wanting to justify my position. I use the consultation with the buddhi to do this, and try to think before speaking: “Is it true?, Is it kind?, Is it necessary?”. This discrimination keeps me quiet in times when previously I would have spoken in a way that was injurious.
Craig: I now listen better, and am more patient in the process. Being quiet for periods during a day can be initiated by saying to Colleen that, “I’m going to spend some silent time with my mantra,” and we both know this is important. We discuss AMI with the majority of the physicians we evaluate, and if it’s appropriate in context, we have recommended AMI’s annual physicians’ conference to many of them. Colleen: When frustrated with a difficult work scenario I often breathe quietly with the So-Hum mantra. When anxious about something that is difficult for me (like giving talks to groups of people), I listen to my mantra. People have told me that I seem so “calm” after giving a talk when I have actually felt afraid and anxious. Having my mantra has been so helpful. And having Craig present grounds me as I can look at him in the audience and know he understands, supports and believes in me.
Tom: Yogic breathing and one-pointed attention help me function effectively during emergencies in the operating room. Being better able to detach from worries and 12
Tom and Dale: If someone is actively looking to better themselves and willing to work at it, AMI provides very useful tools. Still, they must understand that there is no magic
AMI: What positive changes have you noticed in your work and other relationships where you were emotionally triggered, and what AMI Meditation tools did you successfully use?
AMI: What would you say to someone who is feeling stressed and burdened at work and/or home and is considering attending the AMI physicians’ conference or summer retreat?
bullet that will “fix” them. Nobody can fix you but yourself, and that takes work and stepping out of your comfort zone. The AMI tools, when earnestly applied, are VERY helpful. It is not particularly hard to do, but it takes genuine commitment.
Barry: They can only benefit from the AMI program, but there are no quick fixes. Those who choose this program and are sincere in their quest for inner peace have acknowledged the appropriateness of trying something different––even if it may initially seem foreign to their universe. Carolyn: I know they will enjoy and be surprised at the depth and practicality of Yoga Science and the ways AMI Meditation will help them.
Craig: We share copies of The Heart and Science of Yoga, and Transformation, as well as our own mutually solid, positive experience of AMI. In our work, Colleen and I have what I believe to be substantial credibility with our physician peers who are seeking a transformative direction, and we always note that the potential gains outweigh any risk or loss that might be a concern. Colleen: I have told many physicians I see in my work about AMI and the benefits––not only to their feelings of stress and burnout but to
their life as a whole. I include information about AMI in my slide presentations. We have given our children and other loved ones Leonard’s book on Yoga Science. One of my adult children has been afraid of death, and I have talked with her about the teachings from Yoga Science and how there is no need to fear.
AMI: Are there any other comments you would like to make?
Tom and Dale: We have enjoyed our time with AMI and look forward to our continuing relationship.
Barry and Carolyn: We have known AMI for 22 years, and are grateful for the teachings––which apply to everyone’s everyday life on a personal level, young and old.
Craig and Colleen: We are so grateful to have been exposed to the teaching of Yoga Science through the AMI physician conferences and the summer retreat. It has been a life changing experience that no other conference could have provided. Leonard and Jenness are role models for both of us. We feel like kindred spirits on this path.
23RD ANNUAL APPEAL
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HELP US BRING YOGA SCIENCE TO LIFE!
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YOGA SCIENCE NEWS Medscape 2020 Report
Physician Burnout, Depression and Suicide Medscape recently released its 2020 report on National Physician Burnout, Depression and Suicide. Over the last five years, consistently high numbers of physicians––spanning diverse specialties, age groups, and genders––report feelings of burnout. Despite increased attention on this critical health crisis, the percentage of physicians reporting feelings of burnout has shown little to no change. According to survey results, around 70% of Gen X (40-54 years old) physicians report that burnout has a moderate to severe impact on their lives. Additionally, a whopping 75% of all physicians, (regardless of age), say that their burnout symptoms also have a large negative impact on their personal relationships. Professionally, physicians report that burnout is having a negative impact on their patient interactions and approach to work. 38% report that they are exasperated with patients, and 33% say they are less careful with patient notes. Physicians remain united in naming bureaucratic tasks such as charting and paperwork as the leading contributor to burnout. Nearly 55% indicated this was at the root of the problem. One-third of doctors say that spending too many hours at work is an important burnout issue. Among the other issues contributing to the burnout epidemic are a perceived feeling of disrespect coming 14
from administrators, employers, colleagues, and staff. What’s being done about burnout? Many times, physicians suffer in silence and implement a range of coping mechanisms when faced with burnout. Those surveyed reported frequently using positive strategies such as exercise and talking with friends and family to combat the issue. However, reports of negative choices when coping with burnout—such as alcohol use, binge eating, and self-isolation—were also significant. Burnout is so rampant that almost half of physicians across all demographics claim they’d accept less compensation in exchange for greater work/life balance. In recent years, increased attention has been given to an organizational-level approach to combatting burnout. Although an important movement, the challenge with a top-down approach is that change is historically slow in the healthcare industry. That may be why two-thirds of physicians still claim they handle their burnout symptoms themselves and do not seek outside help. To slow or reverse the burnout epidemic, physicians and healthcare organizations must continue to work together to make and support meaningful change. A balanced approach to burnout combines healthy self-care practices with resilience education and organizational support and programming.
americanmeditation.org/summer-retreat
18 CMEs
A MI’s SUMMER RETREAT
AMA PRA Category 1 CreditsTM
Join Leonard and Jenness Perlmutter at
For the General Public, Physicians and other Healthcare Professionals
July 16-19 “ Please join me for our 20th annual summer retreat, as I share how you can experience life’s greatest gifts through the personal practice of AMI Meditation.”
Leonard (Ram Lev)
Register before May 31st and receive a
$100 Early Bird Discount Spend a peaceful and instructive weekend learning the acclaimed Heart and Science of Yoga ® curriculum in a concentrated 4-day format. Regardless of the level of your experience, Leonard’s clear teaching style and sense of humor will provide you a complete AMI MEDITATION practice and all the tools you’ll need to ease stress, reduce pain, boost your immune system, heal relationships, enhance your problem solving ability and discover inner peace. You’ll also delight in delicious, gourmet vegetarian food during the retreat!
To Register: (518) 674-8714 • americanmeditation.org /summer-retreat
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American Meditation Institute Bringing Yoga Science to Life
Tel. 518.674.8714 • 60 Garner Road, Averill Park, NY 12018
“Beware the ‘yeah but’ mantra, a toxic virus already installed on the hard drive of your mind. It diminishes your skillfulness and crerativity, while causing much of the unhappiness and pain you experience in life.” Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev
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American Meditation Institute
American Meditation Institute
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