INNERLIGHT
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UN WORLD MEDITATION DAY
Over 170 participants collectively donate 7,000 minutes of peaceful thoughts spread during a 15-hour ‘Meditation Marathon’
On December 21, 2024, the Raja Yoga Center and The Meditation Space DMCC proudly hosted the ‘Meditation Marathon’ to mark the first-ever UN World Meditation Day. This day underscores the importance of practicing elevated awareness through silence and reflection focused on peaceful and positive thoughts.
Meditation is now recognized worldwide as a tool that can help foster mental health, inner peace, and a sense of global unity. It provides an opportunity for individuals to collectively pause, reflect, and contribute to human wellbeing.
The event, which ran from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, was an open invitation for individuals from all walks of life to join in creating a ripple of
positivity and harmony across the globe. Held at the Raja Yoga Center in Dubai, over 170 participants attended in person throughout the day. Together, they contributed an impressive total of 7,000 minutes of meditation, both in person and online. Participants were invited to immerse themselves in meditation experiences of inner peace, connection, and rejuvenation by engaging in themed activities.
Online Participation
The Meditation Marathon also reached online participants, encouraging them to log their meditation minutes and contribute to the collective goal. The UN World Meditation Day at Raja Yoga Center served as more than just an event, but also the a movement that inspired every participant to
try and incorporate meditation into their daily lives. There was recognition that a few minutes spent in silence and reflection can transform not only individuals but entire communities.
Thematic Rooms at Raja Yoga Center
Research: Participants unlocked inner virtues' by spinning the Wheel of Virtues.
Reconnect: A space designed to encourage unity and harmony with oneself and the world.
Recreate: Guided meditations focused on cultivating stability and balance.
Rejuvenate: This area inspired participants to radiate positivity and peace.
Experiences & Reflections from Attendees
Participants contributing to the Meditation Marathon by sitting in silence
YOUNGADULTS&KIDS
Virtue Cafe is conducted for youth aged 18-40 years by the Raja Yoga Center
Positive healthy energies mean I become a happier person, a more peaceful person a more loving person, independent of whatever is going on
The young professionals of Virtue Café continued to explore self-development opportunities over the last few months of 2024 with seminar-workshops such as Radiant Reflections and Mindful Spending. Active participants have culminated the monthly gathering by connecting with nature in Al Qudra Lake.
WRAP UP IN WINTER WONDERS
The Enlightened Kids (EK) is conducted for children aged 6-11 years by the Raja Yoga Center
Meanwhile, the Enlightened Kids were in non-stop fun and learning as they embarked on the Magical Journey of Gratitude and Reconnecting with the Self sessions and concluded the year with a 1-day Winter Camp. If you enjoyed their sessions in 2024, our dedicated facilitators are further stepping up their game in 2025.
HEAL YOUR FEELINGS
with Sharona Stillerman w wiith h Sh Sha onna a Still a r rm n tilleerman aro t ll
A practicing Raj Yogi with over 38 years of experience in Boston and Tel Aviv, Sharona Stillerman emphasized self-awareness, emotional healing, and spiritual growth through meditation during her talk at the Raja Yoga Center.
Focused on inner peace and empowerment, her teachings guide individuals to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and compassion. By fostering self-awareness and understanding, Sharona inspires practical spirituality, helping people connect to their inner strength and higher purpose.
Listen more here: https://www.youtube.com/wat ch?v=q-91Xg-gXew
When challenges arise, instead of resisting, say, ‘That’s interesting.’ It shifts perspective.
SAY YES TO LIFE
with Eric Le Reste w wiith h Er Eric e Reesste Le L R te c L ri t ic t
Eric Le Reste, a seasoned journalist with 40 years at the CBC, spoke at the Raja Yoga Center on embracing challenges with positivity. In his talk, Say Yes to Life, he encouraged viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth, emphasizing that acceptance fosters inner peace and resilience.
He advised, “Be an actor, not a reactor.” Acceptance, even in difficult situations, empowers the soul to lead with love and creativity, turning life’s challenges into pathways for wisdom and growth.
Listen more here: https://www.youtube.com/wat ch?v=3eJdY1k3pvU
FROM LOSING TO FINDING NEW HOPE...
Meditation didn't erase the pain, it changed how I carried it
It has been a year of transformation for Swarna Lakshmi who shares her touching experience after learning meditation this year
Losing my daughter was the most devastating event of my life, leaving me lost in a sea of sorrow. On January 20, 2023, a year after her passing, I found myself overwhelmed by sadness, making even simple tasks impossible. My health deteriorated under the weight of grief.
A close friend, Meenakshi, who had lost her mother, father, and brother in the same month during COVID, suggested I try meditation. After experiencing a transformation through a meditation course in Mumbai, her advise led me to she connecting with a meditation center in Dubai. Skeptical about how focusing on my breath could alleviate my sorrow, I decided to give it a try.
My journey began at the Raja Yoga Center, where I joined a two-week
course in April 2024. This was a pivotal moment for me. The supportive teachers helped me understand my identity as a soul and my connection to the Divine. I started attending regular meditation sessions, finding a quiet space to breathe and focus. Although my mind initially raced with painful memories, I eventually learned to center myself in the present moment. Meditation provided a safe space to process my grief, creating calm amid the emotional turmoil.
TThe Center later invited me to a Raja Yoga Retreat in Mount Abu,
If you find yourself in pain, I encourage you to try meditation. Though it may not provide instant relief, it can offer moments of solace.
India. Although I worried about traveling to an unfamiliar place, my desire to attend grew stronger. After meditating and seeking guidance from the Divine, my husband supported my decision, and we booked our tickets.
At the retreat, I quickly connected with fellow participants.
Our days began at 3:30am with meditation, followed by seminars and shared moments that felt reminiscent of college life.
The positive energy among us was invigorating, making us feel energized rather than tired.
Over the months, meditation helped me reconcile my grief. While it didn’t erase the pain, it changed how I carried it, allowing me to reconnect with the love and joy my daughter brought to my life rather than allowing sorrow to overshadow her memory.
If you find yourself in pain, I encourage you to try meditation. Though it may not provide instant relief, it can offer moments of solace. Start with a few minutes each day, focus on your breath, and allow yourself to sit with your emotions without judgment.
While meditation hasn’t changed my past, it has transformed how I face each day. I will always carry the loss of my daughter in my heart, but through meditation, I have learned to hold that loss with peace, strength, and love.
Meditation Course for Beginners is conducted regularly at Raja Yoga Center
'SANCTUARY OF SERENITY'
Amidst the wide open green spaces, facilitators from Raja Yoga Center held its first-ever one-day retreat themed 'Sanctuary of Serenity', on December 15.
It was an opportune time for more than 50 aspiring learners to uniquely practice the basics of Raja Yoga meditation away from the usual distractions of the city hustle and bustle. Participants engaged in various creative activities such as
OFFERS A WEEKEND RETREAT FOR MEDITATION LEARNERS
contemplative Mandala art coloring, healing bowl music, 'Serenity Lab' exercises, and 'Harmony in Motion' sessions, all aimed at helping them rediscover their inner self and renew their mental and emotional strengths.
SHARING THE GLITTERS & GIFTS OF THE HOLIDAYS
LET THE INNER SPARKLE SHINE
During the holiday season, decorating a Christmas tree brings light and joy to our homes and hearts. This Christmas, we hope you find time to focus inward and adorn the self with spiritual virtues to connect with the divine light within.
Green Ornaments: Seek inner peace and harmony
Red Ornaments: Commit to love and compassion for all
Blue Ornaments: Pursue wisdom through daily spiritual study
White Ornaments: Cultivate patience and tolerance, facing challenges calmly
The Tree Topper: Connect with the Divine, the ultimate source of light and love
Just as Christmas lights can become tangled, so can life’s threads of desires, attachments, and emotions. Regular care keeps the tree beautiful, and the same applies to our spiritual lives. Stay conscious of your thoughts, actions, and emotions. Avoid negativity and connect daily with your inner self and the Divine to nurture peace within. This season, let’s not only illuminate our homes but also our souls. We hope your Christmas is filled with light, love, and spiritual joy!
TREASURES FOR SUCCESS IN 2025
As we step into the New Year, let your efforts be both elevated and easy. Achieving this balance is possible when you stay focused and avoid carelessness. Approach each day with determination, ensuring that challenges do not turn into difficulties. This coming year let’s commit to making the most of our treasures—time, thoughts, virtues, knowledge, and powers. Among these, the greatest treasure is our thoughts. Nurture elevated and pure thoughts and use these gifts meaningfully to achieve success. Success is your birthright, so claim it by consciously using your resources wisely. Whatever you do, let every task reflect the value of these treasures. By doing so, success becomes inevitable. Remember, you are destined to be stars of success, not just stars of effort. Keep this aim with you always, and let this New Year be filled with purpose, fulfilment, and achievement. Wishing you a successful and joyful New Year!
FEEL THE POWER WITHIN..
Divine energy flows through these hands.. Every touch infuses nourishment to the food I make..The nourishment flows through every ingredient too..Light and love enter each creation..These offerings carry powerful blessings..
AVOCADO GUACAMOLE
Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
1 ripe avocado
1 small tomato, diced
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
•Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
•Mash the avocado with a fork until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
•Add the diced tomato, and green chilies (if using).
•Pour in the lime juice and mix well.
•Stir in the chopped cilantro, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
CHICKPEAS HUMMUS
Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
1 cup boiled chickpeas
1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste) or yoghurt
2-3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Salt to taste
2-3 tbsp water (adjust for desired consistency)
Paprika and olive oil for garnish
Instructions:
▪ In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini/yoghurt, lemon juice, and ground cumin.
▪ Blend until smooth, adding olive oil and water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
▪ Season with salt and blend again to incorporate.
▪ Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika.
LABNEH MINT LEAVES DIP
Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
1 cup labneh (hung curd)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
▪ In a bowl, mix the labneh with the chopped mint leaves.
▪ Add the lemon juice and olive oil, stirring until well combined.
▪ Season with salt and pepper to taste.
▪ Garnish with a few mint leaves on top
SERVING TIP
Enjoy these delicious and healthy dips with your favourite snacks like nachos, pita bread, potato wedges, or raw veggies!
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