Unlocking Calm and Creativity: Exploring Vedic Meditation and Its Life-Changing Benefits with Michael Miller

Jillian Lavender and Michael Miller are two of the world's most experienced teachers of Vedic Meditation. Co-founders of London and New York Meditation Centers have taught thousands of people to transform their lives. Their work has taken them to seven continents (including Antarctica) — teaching private clients in group settings and with fashion, tech, and finance companies. Jillian’s first book, Why Meditate? Because It Works. has been featured in The Guardian, The Times, and Vogue. Michael hosts the Speaking of Meditation podcast with guests, including functional medicine pioneer Dr Frank Lipman and Zoe app founder Tim Spector.

Jillian and Michael come from corporate careers—Jillian is the CEO of a global publishing company based in Paris, and Michael is an executive in the entertainment industry in LA. They recognized immediate improvements when they learned Vedic Meditation and were inspired to share this knowledge. They met in India in 2005 and have been working and teaching together.

Instagram: @newyorkmeditationcenter @londonmeditationcentre @jillianlavender @miller_ji
Websites: https://newyorkmeditationcenter.com, https://www.londonmeditationcentre.com

Book: Why Meditate? Because It Works

Summary
Exploring Meditation and Its Benefits
Michael and Michael Miller had a conversation about meditation and its benefits. Michael Miller mentioned her partner's book, "Why Meditate? Because it works," and her podcast, "Speaking of Meditation," which she believes could be helpful for people looking to understand the potential impact of meditation. Michael agreed, noting that people often look for a quick fix, but sometimes it's easier than they think. They decided to record the conversation for future reference. Michael Miller also mentioned her work as a co-founder of the London and New York Meditation Center.
Exploring Vedic Meditation and Mindfulness
Michael Miller discussed the technique of Vedic Meditation, which has been practiced for thousands of years and involves quieting the mind and resting the body. Miller mentioned that this technique is taught to people from all walks of life, including high performers who understand the power of their mind and focus. Michael agreed on the importance of meditation, especially in managing stress and burnout, and expressed interest in the technique. He also shared his observation that people often take things personally. Michael Miller responded by discussing the importance of maintaining a clear signal amidst the noise in the mind and being present to detect what's happening.
Exploring Meditation's Benefits and Mental Focus
Michael Miller and Michael discussed the benefits of meditation, particularly its ability to enhance perceptual capability, reduce reactivity, and provide a sense of grace. Michael Miller emphasized that meditation allows individuals to be more present and available to others and to respond to situations more thoughtfully. Michael shared his experience with noise cancellation on his ear pods, likening it to a moment of silence amidst the world's noise. He also referenced a scene from a movie where a baseball pitcher, Kevin Costner, quiets himself down to focus solely on the game, illustrating the importance of mental focus.
Self-love, Meditation, and Inner Stability
Michael and Michael Miller discussed the importance of self-love and self-acceptance in achieving inner stability and calmness. Michael Miller used the metaphor of a wave on the ocean to illustrate how meditation can help individuals connect with their true selves beyond external achievements and material possessions. He emphasized the value of tapping into inner quiet and stability to navigate the outside world more effectively. Michael agreed, noting that this ability is crucial for elite athletes to continue thriving and winning.
Michael Miller's Book Meditation Guide and Writing Process
Michael and Michael Miller discussed Michael Miller's book, "Why Meditate? Because it Works". Michael Miller explained that the book came to fruition before the Covid lockdowns and was written to provide a comprehensive guide to meditation, as the technique requires a personal, in-person experience. The book aims to dispel misconceptions about meditation, such as its complexity or challenge. Michael Miller shared her disciplined writing process, which involved meditating at 5 am and writing for 6 hours daily. The book has resonated with people, mainly those interested in meditation but who have yet to attend in-person sessions.
Meditation vs Running: Mental and Physical Benefits
Michael Miller discussed the differences between meditation and running as mental and physical exercise forms. Miller explained that running can lead to a quieter mind due to the body's fight or flight response, and meditation induces a settled mental state with optimal brain functioning for creative insight. Michael Miller emphasized that meditation can lead to deep rest, improved brain functioning, and greater creativity. It can also help manage energy levels and reduce reliance on caffeine. Miller also mentioned that meditation can enhance the quality of sleep. Michael agreed with Miller's points, noting that once one experiences the benefits of meditation, one tends to seek it out again.
Discussing Meditation's Impact and Benefits
Michael and Michael Miller discussed the benefits of meditation and its impact on individuals. Michael Miller shared her podcast, "Speaking of Meditation," which features interviews with various individuals who have experienced the transformative power of meditation. Michael expressed his appreciation for the stories shared on the podcast, particularly those involving individuals who have found change through meditation, such as those in prison. He emphasized the potential of meditation to provide different perspectives and promote personal growth.
Overcoming Burnout and the Power of Meditation
Michael shared his experience overcoming burnout in 2009, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and avoiding self-judgment. He highlighted the benefits of meditation for improving relationships, productivity, and well-being. Michael Miller agreed on the benefits of meditation and stressed the importance of self-care and personal balance for positively impacting society. Miller argued that being happy and generous can contribute to a more peaceful world and urged individuals to take responsibility for their well-being.
Exploring Meditation Benefits and Resources
Michael Miller and Michael discussed the benefits of meditation and its potential to improve people's lives. Michael Miller offered resources for learning meditation, including the London and New York Meditation Centers' websites