Brahma Kumaris

What will I experience?

You will step into a calm, spacious setting that is intentionally free of sensory distractions. In this quiet, minimal environment, you’ll sit for guided Raja Yoga meditation, alternating between silence and gentle instruction to turn inward. You’ll observe the mind and engage in light reflection, allowing space for thoughts and emotions to surface and settle.

Benefits of this experience

By participating in this experience, you begin to loosen what’s been building up—mentally and emotionally—creating space for calm to emerge naturally. Peacefulness begins to take root in the quiet rhythm of sustained silence.

Incorporating in daily life

Incorporate learning by setting aside a few minutes daily to sit in silence, observe your thoughts, and gently guide the mind toward stillness.

About the destination

Brahma Kumaris, Manhattan Meditation Center is a quiet, light-filled space in the heart of the city—offering a gentle pause from the overstimulation of urban life. The environment is intentionally simple, with minimal distractions, creating a natural invitation to slow down and turn inward. The center hosts daily meditation sessions, reflective talks, and silent retreats, all centered around the practice of sitting quietly and becoming more aware of one’s inner state.

Many such programs take place regularly at the center, allowing visitors to explore and choose what resonates most with their needs and rhythm. Whether you’re just beginning or returning to meditation, the space welcomes you without pressure or expectation.

The center is part of the global Brahma Kumaris spiritual movement, founded in India in the 1930s and now active in over 100 countries. Rooted in decades of consistent daily practice, its teachings offer simple tools to cultivate inner calm and clarity. The movement is led globally by Mohini Panjabi (Mohini Didi), a respected meditation teacher with over 60 years of experience and the Brahma Kumaris’ representative to the United Nations.

About the coordinator

Dr. Rona Schweitz is a medical doctor born in the Netherlands to Indonesian parents. With a background in psychiatry, geriatrics, and refugee care, and over 30 years of meditation experience, Rona has led workshops and retreats around the world. She is the author of Experience Meditation, published by Inspired Stillness.

Ancient texts and treatises:

Ancient text name: Chandogya Upanishad (approx. 800–600 BCE)

• Context: One of the oldest Upanishads, part of the Sama Veda, exploring metaphysics and the nature of self.
• Mention of Meditation: Advocates inward contemplation (upasana) as a way to understand the self and attain tranquility. Supports development of Peacefulness, Self-Awareness, and Contentment.

Modern scientific researches:

Title: The psychological effects of meditation: A meta-analysis

• Author(s): Sedlmeier, P., Eberth, J., et al.
• Date of Publishing: 2012
• Abstract: This meta-analysis reviewed over 160 studies and found that meditation significantly improves positive psychological functioning, including increases in well-being, mindfulness, empathy, self-compassion, and life satisfaction.
• ‍Link to Paper