Outside of India, the word yoga has come to mean various forms of dynamic exercises that test your flexibility and strength. Yoga is in fact much more than just these physical exercises, which are more correctly referred to as asanas. 

And believe it or not, asanas weren’t created to make us look good in lycra! Asanas were first created to help prepare the body for meditation and union with the Absolute.

In this episode, Thom explains how asanas, pranayama and Vedic Meditation are used in combination, also called ‘rounding,’ to give us ‘industrial-strength meditation’ and to accelerate the benefits we get from ‘standard’ meditation.

He talks about the importance of proper instruction and supervision so we can truly let go and, if necessary, have the support we need if deep stresses are released.

If you haven’t already, talk to your local Vedic Meditation Initiator about learning rounding and attending a rounding retreat so you can enjoy some industrial-strength meditation yourself. And if you are fortunate enough to be able to travel to Sedona, Arizona, sign up to our mailing list so you can be among the first to know when Thom holds his next rounding retreat there.

Episode Highlights: 

[00:00] Asana, Pranayama, Vedic Meditation
[02:01] Releasing Stress
[03:30] Proper Instruction Needed
[04:15] Round and Round and Round
[05:35] Industrial-Strength Meditation
[07:12] In the Same Room
[08:11] Don’t Try This at Home
[09:32] Heightened Consciousness States
[10:40] The Going Home Program

Useful Links: 
[email protected] 
https://thomknoles.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoles/
https://www.facebook.com/thethomknoles
https://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoles 

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.