A founding member of Ananda Ashram, Joan Suval is a senior disciple of Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati, who called her “Mother of the Ashram.” Since 1964, authorized by Shri Brahmananda, Joan has offered meditation and Yoga-Vedanta programs for the Yoga Society of New York, both at Ananda Ashram and in NYC. Shri Brahmananda also directed Joan Suval in the recording of his “Blue Sky Meditations.” Over the years, she has accepted invitations to present her program, “Readings from the Masters,” in San Diego, Los Angeles, Nashville, Ireland and Switzerland. Joan was also on the staff of the Post Graduate Center for Mental Health in NYC, where she developed the Center's first meditation and stress reduction program. Visit her website for more information.
Joan's programs at Ananda Ashram in Fall/Winter 2019 are scheduled on the following Saturdays: October 12 and November 16.
Programs are by donation.
VERY SAD ANNOUNCEMENT
On Friday, April 24, 2020, our dear Joan Suval peacefully left her body.
Marvin Suval (Dharmadeva) wrote, "One chapter has ended and a new one begins."
She will be missed deeply by her many devoted students and friends, far and near.
Readings from the Masters
- One Saturday a Month at 7:00pm when scheduled
A profound and empowering program examining Eastern teachings as they relate to our everyday lives. The program begins with the traditional Vedic fire ceremony and meditation period. This is followed by Joan Suval's unique combination of selected readings exploring the inspired message of Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati and other great masters, presented through engaging and insightful dialogues. Joan conveys the Vedantic teachings in a clear, serene and supportive manner, emphasizing the importance of "witnessing" and application of these teachings in our day-to-day experiences. In a relaxed and informal setting, Joan welcomes all questions from students and guests and shares many provocative and often humorous anecdotal memories of times with her Guru, Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati.
- Followed by Answers from the Teachings at 9:00pm
Joan transmits the message of her teacher and other great masters, encouraging participants to ask questions "from the heart." In return, they receive insight and advice regarding the practical application of these ancient teachings.
The evening may conclude with devotional music or chanting.
Meditation in the Temple
- Every Saturday 3:00 - 3:30pm
All those new to meditation and the Witnessing Process, as well as those who are experienced in these, are invited to a period of "Guided Witnessing Process" in the Temple of Light upstairs in the Main House. The session uses the recording by Joan Suval, "Witnessing from Second to Second."
Comments from Students"...In no manner does Joan attempt to impose a point of view on those who listen and participate. Instead, each is encouraged to find his or her own way, the only insistence being that of direct personal experience." -- L.L., MD, New York
"...Joan's readings never fail to at least address, if not resolve, some issue or question that has been personally troubling. However, for me, the meditation is the high point of the evening. As a result of Joan's influence, I have tried to incorporate the practice of meditation into my daily activities." -- J.B., New York
"...The type of guidance that Joan provides allows each of us to attain that sense of self-realization which acts as our own inner Guru to guide us in the path of realizing our life's mission." -- I.M., New York
