There’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a meditation technique, let alone a teacher to learn from. Many don’t choose a teacher at all, and go the do-it-yourself route, perhaps with the help of an app, or an audio or video found online.

While one can certainly receive some benefits from these approaches, Thom shares in this episode that the goal should be to get maximum impact from your meditations, rather than just ‘some’ impact.

Thom explains the value of using an ancient technique, one that’s been proven for thousands of years and used by millions around the world.

He also describes the rigorous process that aspiring Vedic Meditation teachers go through when learning from Thom. Apart from the thousands of hours of practical and learning experience gathered over a number of years, the trainee Initiator also has to prove they can meet and maintain the standard required by the Shankaracharya lineage that has passed down the technique over the years.

Thom’s teacher’s teacher, Guru Dev, once famously said, “You deserve the best…” (see above for the full quote), and if you follow the advice Thom shares in this episode, you can be sure that’s what you’ll be getting.

Episode Highlights: 

[00:40] Getting Maximum Impact 

[01:49] An Ancient Tradition 

[03:27] Step Beyond Thinking Entirely 

[04:57] Healthy Skepticism 

[06:19] Mood Making and Pretty Thoughts 

[07:21] Rigorous Prerequisites for Becoming a Vedic Meditation Teacher 

[09:20] Intensive Training for Vedic Meditation Teachers 

[10:29] Graduation as a Vedic Meditation Initiator 

[12:03] Effort Well Spent

[13:17] The Promise of Self-Sufficiency 

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Registration is now open for Thom’s only rounding retreat for 2026, in Sedona from May 21-25.

This is your one and only opportunity this year for deep rest, stress release and consciousness expansion through industrial-strength meditation, along with twice-daily knowledge sessions with Thom.

You’ll enjoy delicious retreat-friendly meals and the beauty and healing powers of the Red Rocks of Sedona. 

Register before February 28th and you’ll save $500 on your retreat fee. 

You can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.