Feeling disconnected? Or maybe you’re just looking for some peace and quiet away from LA’s traffic snarls? If so, the Self-Realization Fellowship Shrine in the Pacific Palisades is the place for you.
This hidden oasis covers 10 acres, but it feels smaller and cozier to me. The centerpiece is a spring-fed lake, which looks like it could have been part of the Fantasy Island TV series set.
Try to spot the turtles, ducks, swans, and huge koi fish. While the swans may appear serene, don’t mess with them at feeding time. We saw them double-team the volunteer bringing them food and rip his gloves off.
Surrounding the lake are hillsides covered in trees and colorful flowers. But the place is more than just a nature reserve. It’s also a spiritual sanctuary. It’s not uncommon to see people parked on benches with their eyes closed and their palms lying open on their laps. To some, this might sound freaky, but I just enjoyed watching them meditate and felt like some of their calmness was passed on to me.
Paramahansa Yogananda (I dare you to say that name three times fast after a few drinks!) founded the shrine in 1950 and believed all major religions share the same core truths. As a result, the shrine tries to honor the world’s 5 major religions and incorporates aspects of some. In addition to a Buddha statue nestled amongst the hillside flowers, there are plaques honoring the world’s 5 major religions near the entrance.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the swami/founder Yogananda, check out the museum on your way out. If you need some quiet inside time, head to the Windmill Chapel where you can hear a pin drop if you’re not in your meditation zone.
Last but not least, a portion of Gandhi’s ashes has been stored here. So if you’re trying to get inspired to nonviolently resist your obnoxious coworker’s snarky daily comments, set yourself down on the Gandhi Lawn for a spell.
This hidden oasis covers 10 acres, but it feels smaller and cozier to me. The centerpiece is a spring-fed lake, which looks like it could have been part of the Fantasy Island TV series set.
Try to spot the turtles, ducks, swans, and huge koi fish. While the swans may appear serene, don’t mess with them at feeding time. We saw them double-team the volunteer bringing them food and rip his gloves off.
Surrounding the lake are hillsides covered in trees and colorful flowers. But the place is more than just a nature reserve. It’s also a spiritual sanctuary. It’s not uncommon to see people parked on benches with their eyes closed and their palms lying open on their laps. To some, this might sound freaky, but I just enjoyed watching them meditate and felt like some of their calmness was passed on to me.
Paramahansa Yogananda (I dare you to say that name three times fast after a few drinks!) founded the shrine in 1950 and believed all major religions share the same core truths. As a result, the shrine tries to honor the world’s 5 major religions and incorporates aspects of some. In addition to a Buddha statue nestled amongst the hillside flowers, there are plaques honoring the world’s 5 major religions near the entrance.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the swami/founder Yogananda, check out the museum on your way out. If you need some quiet inside time, head to the Windmill Chapel where you can hear a pin drop if you’re not in your meditation zone.
Last but not least, a portion of Gandhi’s ashes has been stored here. So if you’re trying to get inspired to nonviolently resist your obnoxious coworker’s snarky daily comments, set yourself down on the Gandhi Lawn for a spell.
Admission and parking are free, but donations are encouraged. Open Tuesday through Sunday.
Self-Realization Fellowship Shrine
17190 Sunset Blvd
Pacific Palisades, CA
90272
310-454-4114
Self-Realization Fellowship Shrine
17190 Sunset Blvd
Pacific Palisades, CA
90272
310-454-4114
No comments:
Post a Comment