April - June 2022 Transformation by American Meditation Institute

American Meditation Institute

Transformation The Journal of Yoga Science as Mind/Body Medicine April - June 2022

americanmeditation.org

Should Einstein’s Formula E=mc2 Influence What You Eat Today?

BY KRISTIN KAELBER MD PHD & LEONARD PERLMUTTER (RAM LEV) Albert Einstein’s well known equation that describes the relationship between energy, matter and the speed of light, is both revolutionary and profoundly simple. It states that mass (matter) can be transformed into energy. Einstein put it this way, “It followed from the special theory of relativity that mass and energy are different manifestations of the same

thing.” Mass and energy can be changed into one another. The question arises: how can we apply this formula in an examination of food choices? Food is a form of matter, and we know that food contains energy that all sentient beings must consume in order to survive and perform their work in the world. Please see page 6

FOUNDATION COURSE to Optimize YOUR CONSCIENCE: May 3rd see p.2

AMI Classes for April - June 2022

AMERICAN MEDITATION INSTITUTE’S

FOUNDATION COURSE TO OPTIMIZE YOUR CONSCIENCE

Developed & Taught by Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev) Expand Your Understanding and Appreciation of

How Your CONSCIENCE Can Work for You Every day you are expected to successfully balance all your personal and professional responsibilities. In the process of doing so, you inevitably face many expectations and challenges. AMI’s Foundation Course will provide you 36 tools to easily transform the debilitating energy of stress, worry and burnout and strong, negative emotions into positive healing energy and creativity––by employing the Super Conscious Wisdom of Your Conscience.

AMI’s FOUNDATION COURSE is Live and Interactive on ZOOM Endorsed by Dean Ornish MD, Bernie Siegel MD, Larry Dossey MD

THE FOUNDATION COURSE CURRICULUM (Level I) is based on the award-winning book, The Heart and Science of Yoga ® and the new book, YOUR CONSCIENCE

by Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev) Yoga Science & Philosophy–WEEK 1

Yoga Psychology & Ayurveda–WEEK 4

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

Coordinate the Four Functions of the Mind to access the power and Inner Wisdom of Your Conscience Use the power of NOW to build and heal relationships Ayurvedic Medicine & Nutrition for your health

AMI Meditation–WEEK 2

Yoga stretches to detox the lymph system and benefit your muscles, nerves, joints, glands & internal organs Physiological benefits of yoga postures

Systematic procedure for AMI Meditation Diminishing distractions with your Mantra Learning the one-minute meditation Building focus and fearlessness

Breathing Techniques–WEEK 3 Breath as Medicine How breathing irregularities foster dis-ease Three-part diaphragmatic breath 2

Easy-Gentle Yoga Exercises–WEEK 5

Mind/Body Self-Care Plan–WEEK 6 The healing power of prayer The practical benefits of contemplation Creating a therapeutic self-care plan for yourself Learning to budget your time Integrating spiritual beliefs into daily life

americanmeditation.org • Tel. (518) 674-8714

Taught by

Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev) AMI’s Foundation Course was developed and is taught live on Zoom by Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev). 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 is a direct disciple of Swami Rama of the Himalayas. Leonard’s lectures are enlivened by his inspiring enthusiasm, vast experience, humor and clear teaching style. He has taught at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, The New York Times Yoga Forum, Kaiser-Permanente, numerous medical schools and the U. S. Military Academy at West Point.

Benefits of AMI’s FOUNDATION COURSE

In 2008, AMI conducted a retrospective case study of AMI’s FOUNDATION COURSE The findings included these positive, life-enhancing, health-promoting changes: • Significant reductions in stress and fear • Improved energy levels • Reduced cholesterol levels • Decreased anxiety and depression • Increased creative capacity • Diminished or extinguished • Lowered blood pressure • Diminishment of migraine headaches acute and chronic pain • Lowered heart rate • Decreased irritable bowel symptoms • Weight loss • Improved restorative sleep • Enhanced happiness and optimism • Increased breathing capacity

FOUNDATION COURSE

Medical Accreditation PHYSICIANS • PAs • NPs (18 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 18 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit.TM Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Registration Includes: Lifelong support, a 20-minute Guided Meditation, a copy of The Physiology of Easy-Gentle Yoga, and a FREE subscription to AMI’s Transformation journal.

Health Insurance Coverage Check with your health insurance plan provider.

The Practical Guide You’ve Been Looking For! “This short book is long on wisdom. Highly recommended.” Dean Ornish MD “This book is a gift for humanity.” Bernie Siegel MD

AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE

UPCOMING CLASSES Live and Interactive

On ZOOM with

Leonard Perlmutter Founder of the American Meditation Institute

May 3 - Jun 7

Tuesdays

6:30 -8:30pm ET, $695.

Jun 14 - Jul 19

(6 WKS)

Tuesdays

6:30-8:30pm ET, $695. (6 WKS) Required Texts available at AMI Bookstore: The Heart and Science of Yoga ® Your Conscience Physicians: $995; PAs, NPs: $895

FREE Live Webinar

Sunday April 10 7:30-8:30pm ET

HOW YOU CAN HELP TURN

WAR INTO PEACE AmericanMeditation.org/peace 3

americanmeditation.org • Tel. (518) 674-8714

CALENDAR

BUDDHA’S BIRTH DAY PARTY

The Healing Power of Thoughts Leonard and Jenness Perlmutter

Live and Interactive on ZOOM

FREE: EVERY SUNDAY GUIDED MEDITATION & SATSANG LIVE on ZOOM • Sundays 9:30-11:00am ET with Leonard (Ram Lev) & Jenness AmericanMeditation.org/sunday

MARCH 2022 MAR 28 - MAY 2: GITA/YOGA PSYCHOLOGY see p.4

APRIL 2021 APR 10: WEBINAR: TURNING WAR INTO PEACE

see p. 8

Sun. Night, 7:30-8:30 PM ET Live on ZOOM - FREE

APR 30 & MAY 7: YOGA SCIENCE LAB

see p. 5

Sat. Mornings, 10:30AM-12:30PM ET (2 wks) Live on ZOOM

MAY 2021 MAY 3 - JUN 7: AMI MEDITATION see p. 2-3 Tues. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM ET (6 wks) Live on ZOOM

MAY 9 - JUN 20: YOGA PSYCHOLOGY Excl. May 30, see p. 4 Mon. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM ET (6 wks) Live on ZOOM

MAY 12: BUDDHA’S BIRTH DAY STUDY see p. 4 Thurs. Night, 6:30 - 8:30 PM ET

JUNE 2021 JUN 14 - JUL 19: AMI MEDITATION see p. 2-3 Tues. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM ET (6 wks) Live on ZOOM

JULY 2021 JUL 11 - AUG 15: SACRED JOURNEY see p.5 Mon. Nights, 6:30 - 8:30 PM ET (6 wks) Live on ZOOM

American Meditation Institute

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.

LEVEL II: (This course is offered once a year) 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. THURSDAY, 6:30 - 8:30PM ET, $95. MAY 12 LIVE ON ZOOM

YOGA PSYCHOLOGY BHAGAVAD GITA STUDY Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter

Live and Interactive on ZOOM 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 a fulfilling and purposeful life in the world today, this ongoing study will provide you the practical wisdom, tools, meaning, courage and confidence you need. Each week Leonard and Jenness will teach you how to reduce stress, enhance your health and creative abilities, while offering you a fresh, positive perspective on all your family and business relationships. This course provides the practical blueprint necessary to resolve all of life’s challenges. MONDAYS, 6:30 - 8:30 PM ET, $150. (6 WKS) MAR 28 - MAY 2; MAY 9 - JUN 20 LIVE ON ZOOM

AMI Classes for April - June 2022

Ne w ! YOGA SCIENCE LAB ® How to Practice Meditation-in-Action Valerie Chakedis and Jennifer Masters Prerequisite: AMI’s Foundation Course

Live and Interactive on ZOOM

Level II: In AMI’s Foundation Course, you learned that your thoughts are your most valuable asset. The Yoga Science Lab® will help you examine your thoughts and expand your ability to focus your attention. The techniques learned in seated AMI Meditation are applied in every duty and responsibility throughout the day. This process is called Meditation-in-Action. As you experiment with the Truth reflected by your Conscience, you’ll develop decision-making skills that will enhance your confidence in all relationships. As you have already learned, to experience real freedom you must be centered in the present moment, know who you are, and follow your Inner Wisdom. The Yoga Science Lab®can help you achieve that freedom! SATURDAYS, 10:30AM - 12:30 PM ET, $75. APR 30 & MAY 7 (2 WKS) LIVE ON ZOOM

SACRED JOURNEY

Living Purposefully

and Dying Gracefully Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter

Live and Interactive on ZOOM

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 how our human life fits into the eternal journey of the soul, the fear of death subsides and life can be lived more skillfully and joyfully. Based on the ancient Katha Upanishad, this course reveals how to organize your life in practical, commonsensical ways that lead to expansion and growth. Every AMI student with a mind and body is encouraged to attend! Required text: Sacred Journey, by Swami Rama

MONDAYS, 6:30 - 8:30PM ET, $150. JUL 11 - AUG 15 (6 WKS) LIVE ON ZOOM

The American Meditation Institute’s

25th Annual Appeal–2022 We Need Your Help to Reach our Goal of $150,000

Call: (518) 674-8714 Online: americanmeditation.org/annual-appeal

E=mc2 and the Food You Eat continued from page 1 The familiar phrase, “You are what you eat,” takes on new meaning in light of Einstein’s equation. With each bite that we take, our food (matter) is transformed into the energy that powers our thoughts, words and deeds, and maintains our body, known in physics as “rest mass.” Energy is latent in this matter and can be realized for our work in the world. The choices of what food we eat determine how healthy our body will be, and influence our ability to choose our thoughts, words and deeds. Our small, frequent choices concerning food accumulate to either enhance or diminish our health and well-being. The natural world has provided us with all the foods we need to sustain life. The natural diversity in food produces different forms of energy such as protein, fat and carbohydrates, and subtle energy diversities in food. Most of us know that certain foods promote health, and that other foods (or processed food-like substances) promote disease. Why is it that people who eat more vegetables tend to have better health? What is it about the matter from a leafy green vegetable that promotes health? Today, we have begun to eat highly processed foods whose mass and energy have been altered. We consume processed foods that contain many more calories per pound of food than those typically found in nature. These processed “foods” have been created by removing the health promoting constituents such as fiber, minerals and vitamins. This results in different energies in the bodies of those who consume it. Consider, for example, the frenetic energy of kids after a birthday party where they’ve consumed candy, cake and ice cream. They virtually bounce off the walls in response to the quick rise in their blood sugar levels. The results are quite different when they consume an apple, which 6

also contains sugars but doesn’t produce a “sugar high.” Why? Because the apple still contains its fiber, which is processed slowly by our gut bacteria to release the energy it contains. Since the apple’s sugar is absorbed more slowly, the child’s blood sugar levels rise gradually and the energy being released to the brain is more steady. Neuroscientists know that foods that produce moderate rises in energy result in more favorable conditions for optimal brain function. Even though fiber contains no calories or energy that we can directly use, it does contain energy that our gut bacteria need to remain healthy. The task of digesting food is actually shared with approximately 30 trillion gut bacteria. When we eat too many foods that lack fiber, our gut bacteria cannot make healthy substances, such as small chain fatty acids, from the food that we eat. Small chain fatty acids from our gut bacteria get absorbed to produce both physical and psychic energy, and minimize levels of inflammation in the body. In fact, when we eat animal products such as eggs, dairy products and flesh, which contain no fiber, our gut bacteria that first digests the food is known to make a toxic substance called TMAO (trimethylamine N-oxid), which is known to increase our risk of heart attack and stroke. And while 97% of Americans get adequate amounts of protein, 97% of us do not eat enough fiber in our food. Only plants contain fiber. When people stop eating animal foods, high in L-carnitine and choline, their levels of TMAO plummet, likely improving their health. This information can help Yoga Scientists make better food choices to fuel our mind-bodysense complex. Einstein’s formula also asks us to

examine how we eat. For example, what does the mind/body “feel” when we eat in a crowded, noisy airport while hurrying to catch a flight, versus what the body “feels” when it is relaxed and at home, about to enjoy a lovingly prepared meal with family? Is the food (matter) affected by the circumstances in which we eat it? The airport meal is likely to be rushed, and the person eating it will not be as present to the act of eating. The eater may mindlessly swallow, paying little attention to flavor or to whether the food is completely chewed. In the meal that is home cooked and calm, the eater has the opportunity to witness the eating process––and to appreciate the six essential tastes of food: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent. The 1927 “double slit” experiment, now validated by recent theories of quantum mechanics, suggests that energy manifests differently when observed by a focused witness. This information inspires the question: how is the energy of food affected by the one-pointed focus of attention of both the cook and the eater? And how does the unhurried meal differ from a fast food meal prepared by a daydreaming cook and consumed by a distracted or distressed eater? Even without Western scientific methodology to measure this difference, Yoga Scientists can examine how we feel after each experience, and use this information to help us decide when, where and what we choose to eat. Do we take a moment to relax the mind/body before eating? Do we take time to chew our food and taste it properly? Do we consider where our food came from? Was it sprayed with pesticides? Was the food mass produced in a factory and canned in a jar two years ago, or is it fresh from our own organic garden? How do we feel when we eat plant-based foods versus the flesh of animals that were full of antibiotics

and intense fear at the time of their death? And what is the impact on the environment of the food choices I make every day? These are interesting questions to ask when we choose which foods to eat. Einstein’s formula illustrates the unity of life. Yoga Science considers that everything is ONE, and that consciousness is omnipresent. When we begin to see that all matter can be converted into energy, and that energy from the sun is converted into food by plants, we see clearly that there is a living cycle of energy connecting us to everything in the universe. The apple that we eat received the sun’s energy from millions of miles away. The water in the apple we eat may have originally flowed from a mountain spring on another continent. We can become active participants, witnessing the conversion of the food we eat into the energy used in and by our entire mind-body-sense complexes. In order to consciously experience this process, one must first coordinate the Four Functions of the Mind. When the Ego, Senses and Unconscious Mind are coordinated to the Super Conscious Wisdom reflected by the Conscience, we make better decisions about food choices. These conscious and discriminating food choices slowly and lovingly rebuild our health, and help us to limit foods that threaten our health. We begin to choose foods which provide the energy that encourages balance (homeostasis) and proper functioning of our mindbody. When we optimize our health, we can go into the world prepared to serve generously in whatever ways we are asked to contribute. So, what will you choose for breakfast, lunch and dinner––knowing it will soon be transformed into your selfless service in the world today?

American Meditation Institute Yoga Science for Modern Life Tel. 518.674.8714 • 60 Garner Road, Averill Park, NY 12018

americanmeditation.org

HOW YOU CAN HELP TURN

WAR INTO PEACE BY RESOLVING INNER CONFLICT April 10, 2022 • 7:30-8:30pm ET with Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter and a panel of Yoga Scientists

FREE WEBINAR: AmericanMeditation.org/peace

American Meditation Institute