Please Make a Donation Today to AMI’s
28th Annual Appea l for 2025
“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.”
ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON
The American Meditation Institute is now in the midst of our 28th Annual Appeal, and we need your loving, selfless support to help keep the teaching of Yoga Science and Philosophy alive and thriving in today’s fragile world!
By Ram Lev (Leonard Perlmutter)
In the ancient Yoga Science text known as the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna lovingly provides his disciple Arjuna this rare and timeless guidance: “Whenever the dharma declines and the purpose of life is forgotten, I manifest Myself in a finite form.” (Chapter 4, Verse 7)
For thousands of years, these words have reassured and inspired spiritual seekers that even in times of crisis, light is never far behind darkness. That remains true because the forces of harmony and balance are not static—they continually renew themselves through human awareness, self-discipline, conscious choice, selfless service and Grace.
This verse speaks to the eternal principle of balance and cosmic order known as dharma. Whenever the forces of disharmony (adharma) begin to prevail and the moral fabric of society deteriorates, the Divine manifests—either externally,
through great sages and teachers, or internally through a generalized awakening of human consciousness—to restore dharma This is not necessarily about one literal incarnation of our human concept of “God” alone, but about the re-emergence of truth, wisdom, and higher values within individuals and societies when it’s most needed.
This verse reflects the inner cycle of human life. When our own mind (manas) is overcome by ignorance, fear, anger, greed or other negative habit patterns (adharma), an inner call for balance (dharma) naturally arises. Through Self-awareness, a daily meditation practice, and discriminating action based on the inner, intuitive Super Conscious Wisdom reflected by the Conscience, humanity can re-establish dharma within ourselves—moving beyond unconscious reactions to conscious, skillful living.
Essentially, all individuals have the capacity to renew themselves, to “manifest their Higher Divine Nature,” especially in times of internal or external crisis.
In today’s American culture, we see much that might be called a “decline in dharma.” For example, for years now, we have witnessed: 1. Social and political polarization, 2. Erosion of trust in our institutions, 3. Mental health crises, as well as burnout and suicide among physicians and all other healthcare professionals, 4. Climate anxieties and global instability, 5. Rising fear, cynicism, misinformation, and a crisis of meaning in everyday life, and 6. A growing sense of uncertainty about the future.
And yet, in this present context, chapter 4, verse 7 of the Bhagavad Gita reminds us that each time such disorder arises, there simultaneously appears the opportunity for renewal. Therefore, what we are experiencing today is neither a real crisis, nor a problem. On the contrary, it is the ancient dharmic call for a higher consciousness to emerge.
And many Americans are already answering that call to experience a modern reawakening of inner dharma in the following ways: 1. Increasingly turning to meditation, mindfulness, and easy-gentle yoga, 2. Demanding integrity and ethical leadership in politics, business, and healthcare, 3. Reconnecting with community, compassion, and shared
values, and 4. Seeking spiritual teachings that transcend divisive ideologies. These various lifestyle changes suggest that even amid turmoil, there is an underlying evolutionary impulse toward restoring balance, Truth, and justice. But for that to happen, it requires: 1. The Psychological dharma of individuals taking responsibility for their inner life, 2. The Cultural dharma of creating communities to foster empathy, education, and constructive dialogue, and 3. The Political dharma of leaders aligning policy with higher, intuitive principles. Remember, this message I’m offering you is timeless and universal. When the darkness of troubled times appears and spreads, light also prepares to emerge. In every crisis, there is an opportunity for the Divine, or higher wisdom, to manifest not only through extraordinary beings, but through the awakened hearts and minds of ordinary people like you and me. Therefore, you and I can be essential in this restoration of dharma. Through the practice of Yoga Science—meditation, breath training, mindful living, mantra, one-pointed attention, God-centered prayer, detachment and discriminating decision making, each of us becomes more able to: 1. Respond with love instead of fear, 2. Bring patience and compassion into our relationships, 3. Align our actions with our highest inner wisdom, and 4. Contribute, in small but powerful ways, to healing ourselves and all humanity.
Many of our physician graduates have shared that AMI Meditation® and its allied teachings and disciplines, have helped them not only prevent and reduce burnout and stress, but also restore their sense of meaning and joy in medicine and in their home life. And the same can be true for all of us, whatever our calling in life may be.
If you’ve been feeling the heaviness of the times—or simply long to live with greater purpose and inner peace—this may be your moment to begin (or deepen) your spiritual practice.
I warmly invite you to join me for an upcoming Foundation Course in Yoga Science and Meditation, July 20 – August 24 or September 14 – October 19.
All classes are simultaneously available live on ZOOM, and at the AMI Home Center in Averill Park, New York. In addition, both classes provide 18 CME credits for physicians, physician assistants and Nurse practitioners.
The Foundation Course offers a stepby-step path that cultivates inner clarity, strength, and joy—so you too can help restore dharma in today’s world.
With every conscious breath and every mindful choice, the light of dharma is reborn. I look forward to welcoming you to my next class.
In loving service to the Guru Tradition, I pray to the Divinity in you.
Ram Lev (Leonard Perlmutter)
20th
By Tony Santilli, MD
Originally published in 2005, The Heart and Science of Yoga by Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev), is far more than a meditation manual. It is a visionary integration of ancient spiritual wisdom with contemporary scientific understanding––offering a fully articulated system for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Developed from his half-century of Yoga Science practice, and the curriculum of his acclaimed six-week AMI Meditation ® Foundation Course, this book represents a watershed contribution to the evolving relationship between Eastern wisdom traditions and Western healthcare.
The rare value of The Heart and Science of Yoga is its comprehensiveness. Rather than isolating meditation as a standalone
technique, Perlmutter honors its original context within the broader tradition of Yoga Science––which includes Yoga Philosophy and Psychology, Mantra Science, Ayurveda, diaphragmatic breathing, easy-gentle yoga exercises, principles of Quantum Physics, self-inquiry, and a dynamic, practical selfcare plan. This holistic framework echoes the integrated approach of the ancient sages, while also demonstrating a deep sensitivity to the challenges of modern 21st-century life––stress, burnout, distraction, and chronic illness. With clarity and compassion, Perlmutter offers a step-by-step guide that brings ancient teachings to life in a way that is methodical, commonsensical, experiential, enjoyable and deeply healing.
What distinguishes this work is its dual
commitment to spiritual authenticity and scientific credibility. Unlike many spiritual texts that dwell exclusively in either esoteric mysticism or clinical detachment, The Heart and Science of Yoga synthesizes the two. The success of this commitment is exemplified in its status as a Continuing Medical Education (CME) accredited course––awarded through a joint providership with the Albany Medical College and the American Medical Association for physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. It is one of the rare Yoga-based educational programs to receive such medical validation, speaking to both its practical efficacy and intellectual rigor.
This approval reflects not only the scientific validation of the practices presented, but also their relevance and utility for those on the frontlines of patient care. In fact, a 2022 peer-reviewed clinical study, published in the “Lifestyle Medicine” journal, demonstrates the curriculum's efficacy by finding that the AMI Meditation® Foundation Course reduces burnout and secondary traumatic stress while increasing compassion satisfaction levels in healthcare providers––even during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Philosophically, The Heart and Science of Yoga performs a vital role of reinterpretation––not unlike Patanjali’s in his codification of the “Yoga Sutras” over 2,000 years ago. Just as Patanjali’s “Yoga Sutras” systematized and clarified the diverse teachings of his time, Ram Lev (Leonard Perlmutter) distills the timeless, complex wisdom of the Vedic, Vedantic, and Tantric traditions into a coherent, practice-based system accessible to 21st-century seekers. His language is clear yet profound, his logic precise, and his tone
compassionate––qualities that enable the ancient teachings to speak meaningfully to the modern mind. The book acts as a philosophical and practical guide––helping both healthcare professionals and the general public access a holistic model for self-care and Self-realization.
Moreover, the book is grounded in lived experience. Ram Lev’s decades of teaching Yoga Science to physicians, patients, and spiritual aspirants at the American Meditation Institute provides a rare depth of instruction that infuses the text with both authenticity and authority. Each concept is not only explained, but woven into a curriculum designed for real transformation––personal, professional, and spiritual.
To be certain, The Heart and Science of Yoga is not just a book to be read––it is a comprehensive curriculum to be consciously lived––a bridge between science and spirituality, and a guidebook for navigating the inner landscape with clarity, self-confidence and purpose. Its comprehensive nature, medical legitimacy, and philosophical sophistication make it one of the most significant contributions to the field of Yoga Science in our time. For healthcare professionals and spiritual seekers alike, it is a timely and trustworthy companion on the path to healing, self-mastery, and inner peace.
Tony Santilli, MD is a board certified pulmonary and critical care physician practicing in Schenectady, New York. He is also the co-chair of AMI’s Department of Medical Education. Dr. Santilli received his medical degree from the University of Buffalo. He completed his postgraduate training at Brown University and his fellowship at Weill Cornell Medical Center. Tony has been practicing medicine for over 25 years.
Practice
How do you get To Carnegie Hall?
How do you get To big from small? How do you get To One from all?
Practice
Practice
Practice
I have it all
When you finally Have it all You will beg For something more For in it all Is none Of what you’re Looking for
Unconditional Love
This is not A race
This is not A competition The goal of life Is not first place It's to love In every condition
Following the leader
If you let it, Life will bring you Everything You need Be patient Be present And follow Its lead
Metaphoric bridge
You live the life You need to live To learn the lessons You need to learn It’s not by mistake, Your give and take, The bridges you build And the bridges you burn
Count your blessings
Sometimes Less And sometimes More But all times Something To be Grateful for
Join us as we eavesdrop on a conversation between a young spiritual seeker and the King of Death, and you will understand that the purpose of death is to teach us how to live to our highest potential
Led
Led by Ram Lev and Devi
(Leonard & Jenness Perlmutter)
A Living Link in the World’s Oldest Health and Wisdom Spiritual Tradition
Developed by Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev), and derived from his award-winning books The Heart and Science of Yoga and YOUR CONSCIENCE ®
Yoga Science & Philosophy–WEEK 1
Learn to expand your creative consciousness
How to use the mind for the best choices
Understanding pain as an agent for healing
Increasing energy, will power & creativity
Antidotes for worry, stress and depression
AMI Meditation®–W EEK 2
Systematic procedure for AMI Meditation®
Diminishing distractions with your Mantra
Learning the one-minute meditation
Building focus and fearlessness
Breathing Techniques–WEEK 3
Breath as Medicine
How breathing irregularities foster dis-ease
Three-part diaphragmatic breath
Yoga Psychology & Ayurveda–WEEK 4
Coordinate the Four Functions of the Mind to access the power and Inner Wisdom of Your Conscience
Use the power of NOW to build and heal relationships
Ayurvedic Medicine & Nutrition for your health
Easy-Gentle Yoga Exercises–WEEK 5
Yoga stretches to detox the lymph system and benefit your muscles, nerves, joints, glands & internal organs
Physiological benefits of yoga postures
Mind / Body Self-Care Plan–WEEK 6
The healing power of prayer
The practical benefits of contemplation
Creating a therapeutic self-care plan for yourself
Learning to budget your time
Integrating spirituality into daily life
Endorsed by Dean Ornish MD, Bernie Siegel MD, Larry Dossey MD
Ram Lev is an American spiritual teacher, a direct disciple of medical pioneer Swami Rama of the Himalayas, and a living link to the world’s oldest health and wisdom spiritual tradition. A noted educator, philosopher and Yoga Scientist, Ram Lev is the founder of the American Meditation Institute, developer of The Foundation Course curriculum, and originator of National Conscience Month. He is the author of the awardwinning books, The Heart and Science of Yoga® and YOUR CONSCIENCE, and the Mind/Body/Spirit Journal, Transformation. A rare and gifted teacher, Ram Lev’s writings and classes are enlivened by his inspiring enthusiasm, vast experience, wisdom, humor and a clear, practical teaching style. Ram Lev has presented courses at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, numerous medical colleges, Kaiser Permanente, the Commonwealth Club of California, the U. S. Military Academy at West Point and The New York Times Yoga Forum with Dean Ornish MD.
You are invited to join Jenness Perlmutter & Leonard (Ram Lev)
FREE: Every Sunday 9:30 -11:00am ET GUIDED MEDITATION & SATSANG
AmericanMeditation.org/sunday
LIVE on ZOOM and at the AMI Home Center
“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.” – Henry David Thoreau
JULY 2025
JUL 20 - AUG 24: AMI MEDITATION® see p. 10-11
Sun. Nights, 6:30 -8:30 PM ET (6 wks) Live on Zoom & at AMI
JUL 21 - SEP 1: SACRED JOURNEY see p. 12
Mon. Nights, 6:30 - 8:30 PM ET (7 wks) Live on Zoom & at AMI
SEPTEMBER 2025
SEP 8 - OCT 13: GITA/ YOGA PSYCHOLOGY (6 wks) see p.13
Mon. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM ET Live on Zoom & at AMI
SEP 14 - OCT 19: AMI MEDITATION® see p. 10-11
Sun. Nights, 6:30 -8:30 PM ET (6 wks) Live on Zoom & at AMI
OCT 20 - NOV 24: GITA/ YOGA PSYCHOLOGY (6 wks) see p.13 Mon. Nights, 6:30-8:30 PM ET Live on Zoom & at AMI
American Meditation Institute
Education for Enlightenment®
July-August, 2025 • Vol. XXVIII No. 5 PO Box 430, Averill Park, NY 12018
©2025 by Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev) and The American Meditation Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy, Inc. americanmeditation.org \ Tel. (518) 674-8714 ami@americanmeditation.org
AMI is a tax exempt, non-profit 501(c) 3 educational organization. Donations are fully tax deductible.
COVER:
Living Purposefully and Dying Gracefully
Leonard (Ram Lev) and Jenness Perlmutter
This Ancient Story offers a personal conversation with the King of Death to learn the secrets of Enlightenment.
Vital Energy
How it works in health, stress, illness, and depression, and how it can be stored or lost.
Desire and Will
Why “Desire is Destiny” and how its power is harnessed by the will.
Remaking ourselves with every thought.
The Shadowy Frontier in Consciousness
Between death and deathlessness, and how it can be crossed, here and now.
“The Supreme Reality is beyond name, form and senses. It is inexhaustible, without beginning or end, beyond time, space, and causation–Eternal and Immutable. Those who realize the Supreme within themselves are forever free from the jaws of death.
Get up! Wake up! Seek the guidance of an Illumined teacher and realize the answer to life’s most important questions: Who am I? Why am I here? What happens in death? How should I live now?” Katha Upanishad
Level II: To understand the purpose of life, we must try to understand the relationship between life and death. The two are partners––each providing a context for the other. Death is not the end, but merely a pause in an eternal journey. When both birth and death are understood and accepted, we see how our human life fits into the eternal journey of the soul, the fear of death subsides and life can be lived more skillfully and joyfully. Based on the ancient Katha Upanishad, this course reveals how to organize your life in practical, commonsensical ways that lead to expansion and growth.
Required text: Sacred Journey, by Swami Rama
MONDAYS, 6:30 - 8:30PM ET, $150.
JUL 21 - SEP 1 including Insight Night (7 WKS) LIVE ON ZOOM & AMI HOME CENTER
Valerie Chakedis Ed.D. and Barbara Ruel
Prerequisite: AMI’s Foundation Course
Level II: In the AMI Meditation® Foundation Course, you learned that your thoughts are your most valuable asset. The Yoga Science Lab® will help you examine your thoughts and expand your ability to focus your attention. The techniques learned in seated AMI Meditation® are applied in every duty and responsibility throughout the day. This process is called Meditation-in-Action. As you experiment with the Truth reflected by your Conscience, you’ll develop decisionmaking skills that will enhance your confidence in all relationships. As you have already learned, to experience real freedom you must be centered in the present moment, know who you are, and follow your Inner Wisdom. The Yoga Science Lab® can help you achieve that freedom!
THURSDAYS, 6:30PM -8:30 PM ET, $75. (2 WKS) NOV 6 & 13 LIVE ON ZOOM
Ram Lev (Leonard) and Jenness Perlmutter
Level II: In continuous six week installments this course presents the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita as a handbook on the science of life and the art of living. If you are seeking a manual or guide for the supreme task of living a fulfilling and purposeful life in the world today, this ongoing study will provide you the practical wisdom, tools, meaning, courage and confidence you need. Each week Leonard and Jenness will teach you how to reduce stress and enhance your health and creative abilities, while offering you a fresh, positive perspective on all your personal and business relationships. This course provides the practical blueprint to resolve all of life’s challenges.
MONDAYS, 6:30 - 8:30 PM ET, $150. (6 WKS) SEP 8 - OCT 13, OCT 20 - NOV 24 LIVE ON ZOOM & AMI HOME CENTER
Take this 2-Minute
AMI MEDITATION® Foundation Course of Yoga Science with Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev)
“My appeal to every caregiver would be to love yourself. Express the same compassion to yourself, as you would for those you care for. And look in the mirror and ask yourself: ‘Are you happy?’ ‘Are you thriving?’ And if not, why is that? The AMI Foundation Course is news to use! It is the antidote to so many of our day-to-day challenges.”
Mark Pettus MD
“Just as food satisfies hunger, your teaching has filled my need to nourish the soul.”
Judy Murgitroyde
“On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate this course a 10. On a scale of A to F, I’d give it an A+. On a scale of bad to good, I would give it a Great!”
Wendy Dodge
“Phenomenal course! Leonard is an excellent teacher and now a friend. This experience was so enlightening in comparison to the usual medical courses which are packed with data, but often not very useful. This experience has actually changed my life!”
Larry
Iannarone MD
“A transformational experience of wisdom and enlightenment!”
Kallanna Manjunath MD
SEE PAGES 10 & 11
