What are the characteristics of Ananda Marga meditation? Numerous scientific studies have been made on the benefits of meditation and its application in the fields of psychology, medicine, sport and metaphysics. Ananda Marga meditation practices come from the ancient tradition of yoga and tantra, and have the ultimate aim of merging the individual mind with the Supreme (the individual consciousness with the cosmic one). Essentially a practice for spiritual elevation, it is practiced through a precise technique of concentration and introspection which gradually allows the individual to perceive the internal path.... (cont.)

In Ananda Marga the practice of yoga asanas or postures is considered a fundamental discipline for the maintenance of one's physico-psychic equilibrium. Thousands of postures were developed by the yogiis of the distant past: often based upon positions assumed by various animals such as the cobra, the locust, the frog, etc. Practiced correctly, these postures can have a therapeutic and preventive effect: giving suppleness to the body and skin, massaging the internal organs, generating physical energy yet also relaxing the body. However, the effects of asanas on the mind are their strong point....(cont.)

The practice of yoga and meditation involves a specific yogic diet. This helps by controlling the body temperature and balancing glandular secretions, giving elasticity to the ligaments and the capacity to both concentrate and relax. Yogic teachings indicate that a vegetarian diet is ideally suited to achieve the best results of these practices.

Leaving aside for a moment all valid ethical, health and social considerations regarding abstaining from eating meat, .... (cont.)