The Science of Meditation: Swami Rama, Master of the Himalayas

Like a multifaceted diamond, Swami Rama was a man of many brilliant talents. He was an extraordinary spiritual Master, a medical doctor, renowned scientist, prolific author, gifted singer, artist and humanitarian. Even before his conception, his grand and auspicious destiny was known among the Himalayan sages.

He encouraged people to live a simple but saintly life, and emphasized the importance of meditation, saying, “Meditation will give you a tranquil mind. Meditation will make you aware of the Reality deep within. Meditation will make you fearless; meditation will make you calm; meditation will make you gentle; meditation will make you loving; meditation will give you freedom from fear. These are the results of meditation.”

In fact, the predominant essence of the Master’s teachings was unconditional love. He said, “Learn to love, that is the law of expansion… Learning to give is one of the greatest of arts. Give selflessly, to those at home, to those with whom you live. Start doing it there. Love will completely transform you, for love alone has that power…”

Swami Rama was a lifelong vegetarian. In his book “A Practical Guide to Holistic Health,” he recommended that those wishing to pursue spiritual practices adopt a plant-based lifestyle. He said a vegetarian diet is also better for the health, as meat-eating leads to high blood pressure, constipation, cancer and heart problems. He stated that the benefits of a veggie lifestyle were particularly noticeable as one ages, and that older vegetarians have clearer minds, better vitality and live longer lives than meat-eaters.

Throughout his life, he wrote dozens of books about spirituality, yoga and holistic health. Perhaps his best-known work is “Living with the Himalayan Masters,” an autobiographical account of his journeys through the sacred mountains, and the lessons learned from the fascinating holy sages he met along the way.

In 1994, he completed one of his finest accomplishments: the founding of the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust, which includes a hospital and Rural Development Program assisting over 1,000 outlying villages in the region.