Today we’d like to introduce you to Sanora Bartels.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Sanora. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I learned to meditate in 2007. Because of the impact it had on every area of my life, I began to study its source more fully. Vedic meditation has its roots in the Vedas, ancient Indian texts, and in the Vedanta – (Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita). This material was key in understanding the ancient tradition and how it applies to our modern lives.
In 2009, I traveled to India and took part in a 12-week training, both there and here in the states, to become a teacher. I have been teaching Vedic Meditation since June 2009.
My students have steadily increased from that time. I don’t actually advertise much, other than keep a page on Facebook and a presence on Yelp! I’m not big on asking people to rate my business because I don’t really look at it as a business. I look at it as a way to be of service to my students. In fact, most of my new students, about 80%, now come from referrals.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Early on the challenge was not to push someone to learn, even though I knew how much it would help the individual. The unique thing about this practice is that if someone “talks you into it” the experience can be tainted by feeling it’s something one “has to do” or “should do”. This practice is best approached as something one wants to do on one’s own.
So I had to get out of my own way in terms of being a “salesperson” even though I was eager to have everyone experience the same amazing results I had.
Other than this shift in attitude, I would say it has been fairly effortless.
vedicmeditationteacher.com – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I specialize in teaching a practice called “Vedic Meditation”. It is a mantra-based, silent meditation practiced twice a day, once in the morning, once in the early evening.
I think what sets me apart is the ease with which I “run the business” – there is no hard-sell and because of that “customers” continue to recommend me to their friends and family.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success by appreciating what is in my life. I own a lovely home, am happily married, and am amused by 2 very goofy cats. I have a great deal of contentment in the “everyday”.
I have time for creative pursuits and, in fact, am surrounded by intelligent, creative people who are of service to this world in some way.
Having said that, I believe success is something that is always evolving, as we are. So down the line, it might mean that I’m no longer a home owner and am on the road and able to reach a larger group of new students.
Material success comes into play on the level of “can I afford to pay the mortgage and/or travel expenses in order to have a base upon which to teach?” If so, this is obviously something I should keep at because it helps people and I’m being supported in it.
Contact Info:
- Address: The learning center is located in Glassell Park.
4402 W. Avenue 41
Los Angeles, CA 90065 - Website: www.vedicmeditationteacher.com
- Phone: 818-523-8864
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VedicMeditationTeachercom-219197652728/
- Twitter: @vedicteacher
