Shivani Billimoria - Smiles, prayers and miracles

Art of Living Teacher and Blesser, Delhi, India

Follow Shivani on twitter @Shivani-b

Being a medical doctor, and having ‘been there done it all’, at 36 years of age I realized I was still searching for something, but was unable to know exactly what.

I went for a talk for Doctors by a Doctor about medical research on a breathing technique called SUDARSHAN KRIYA that could alter DNA in Nov 2005. Now that was something that triggered my curious intellect.10 minutes into the talk , 2 min of looking at the smiling faces of some Art of Living members on stage and I knew I would be at the course venue next morning, along with my husband.

After the first Kriya I knew I had started my earnest journey to discover ‘that something’ I had been missing. A small but clear voice in my head said ‘Continue with this and you will eventually find the answers to your burning questions.’

When I asked my teacher ‘What next’, his smiling reply was ‘Do the Art of Silence course’, and I went for it. Like a bird in a cage I was flustered during the course, since I was silent for the first time in years but again I heard the same voice. After this, still not convinced about the ‘Guru’ principle, I continued to feed my intellect with Sri Sri 's talk CD's and books but amazingly would go to sleep like a little baby and wake up all wise and smart.

One day at my hospital  a complication with a patient made me feel helpless for the first time in life and I heard myself speak to Sri Sri's photo on my desk, asking Him to do something. After 3 days, in a follow up X ray I witnessed a miracle. The fractured segment of instrument lodged in the patient’s bone had vanished. That moment I saw what I had been missing - I saw My Guru. Now I had the burning desire to meet Him, somehow, somewhere, but soon and I started vehemently praying for it!

That wonderful day happened in Ahmedabad at Maha Shivratri in 2007. There were thousands of people, and it seemed impossible that I would get to meet Him in person. So I just closed my eyes and started expressing my gratitude under my breath. Suddenly people started nudging me to get up and go towards the stage because GURUJI was asking me if I wanted to share something and that I should be given a mike. Walking through that crowd towards my Master I realized He knew ME all along.

Now 8 years later, miracles are have become a part of my life. I was cured of claustrophobia and panic attacks through eternity process, Vertigo with Blessings course and Yoga, Even pre-cancerous findings disappeared with my regular practice of Sudarshan Kriya and Sri Sri Ayurveda products. Now as a Dentist I continue to create smiles as my business. But bringing life and adding miles to those smiles is my one and only mission, which with the Grace of my Master I am able to do as an Art of Living Teacher and Blesser.

Content in every aspect of life with a loving husband who supports my endeavors to spread the Art of Living knowledge and two wonderful boys who are also steadily bringing Yoga, Ayurveda and Meditation in their daily routine there is only one prayer I am hoping my MASTER will continue to fulfil - Let me continue serving HIM.  I want to be more useful in this lifetime and only He can put me to good use. :)

Jai GuruDev!
Dr. Shivani (Rita) Billamoria

Rajita Vishwakarma - A New beginning

Volunteer, Thane/Ahmedabad, India

I was born in Igatpuri, a small sleepy, beautiful, hill station near Mumbai. During my early years, I was a pampered, introvert child, the youngest in the family of four sisters. My doctor parents, though religious were not spiritual in nature and growing up, I had never heard the word “Guru” mentioned. College was fun till my mother was detected with Breast Cancer in 1993 and within a year my whole world collapsed with her demise. Suddenly I became the lady of the house who had to manage the home, groceries and kitchen…all these were alien words for me. I left my second year post graduation in Pune University and came back to Igatpuri to be by my father’s side. My two eldest sisters were married with families of their own and my third sister was finishing her studies to be a doctor.

For eight years I continued to stay with my Dad refusing to get married as the thought of leaving him alone to manage the home was too much for me. For all these years after my mother’s death, the fear of Cancer kept eating me. Finally in the year 2001 I settled for an arranged marriage with my husband Rajesh.

Life was once again blossoming for me till in 2003 mis-carriage gave me a rude shock and then within 6 months at the age of 31 I was diagnosed with stage 3 Breast Cancer - The most hated word in my life. I could see the end that I had witnessed for my mother. I was certain that I had reached the end of the road and the doctors were also not very positive of the outcome at that time as the dreaded cancer had spread to my axila region and affected the lymph nodes there.

While I was undergoing rigorous chemotherapy sessions, I got a call from a dear college friend. She had just returned from Advance Meditation Course of AOL in Malaysia and was very upbeat about the benefits of Art Of Living Courses. She told me about Guruji and insisted that I do the Basic Course ASAP. Soon after I had completed my Chemotherapy and Radiation treatment I came across an advertisement for Basic Course in Thane. My husband encouraged me to enroll in it. Though skeptical in the beginning I went ahead and registered.

Jan 25, 2005 – The First day in the course was very painful as I could not sit down and had to sit on the chair. Bhastrika was a monumental task as one hand was swollen as a result of operations and the other hand was bruised and battered with innumerable injections and IVs that were pumped into it. Second day. the Sudarshan Kriya day was amazing and miraculous as I experienced Guruji’s grace flowing inside me and calming me down. After the Kriya I felt this sudden surge of positive energy inside me. For the first time in years I felt that Cancer can be beaten and I could do that.

Then, in March I attended the Maha Sudarshan Kriya (Live with Guruji). It was the first time I saw Him as well. When he approached the area where I was standing, I could just raise my hands to wave out to him as my throat choked with emotions and tears of joy flowed from my eyes. I had never felt such strong emotions and bonding for a person I had never met before.

My first checkup appointment was the day after the Maha Kriya. I was nervous about the outcome of my blood test reports. My Oncologists were however happy and pleasantly surprised with the way my health had progressed after the treatment. My Onco Surgeon who had given me only 60% chance of survival, declared me Cancer Free…. the sweetest words I had ever heard. I then knew that Sudarshan Kriya was playing a big role in my recovery.

Now whenever I go for my Health checkup, I talk to the new patients there and tell them my life story and how Art Of Living and Guruji have helped me in winning this battle. My Faith in Guruji has inspired many friends and strangers to do the course.

It has been eight joyous years since I was introduced to this wonderful way of living. These eight years have completely changed my outlook towards life…for the better. It has given me a new family… My Art Of Living Family; with fabulous lifelong friends and most importantly given me a Guru to whom I can look up to, give my botherations to and be assured that HE will guide me out of any sticky situations. A Guru whom, I love, adore and worship. My Guru of Joy.

Jai GuruDev!

Rajita

Jesica Tirado - Found my purpose.... at last

Art of Living Teacher

(Follow Jesy on Twitter: @jesytirado )

Post originally in Spanish.

El original de este blog en español. Por favor, haga clic en el botón de traducir a la derecha (en la barra lateral) para acceder a este blog en español.

I was born in Argentina in 1983. Oldest of 3 sisters, I used to see the world, through history and around the globe. When I was 10 years old, I had already read the biographies of great people such as Mandela, Luther King, Saints like Saint Francis of Asis and others that have had significant impact in this world. These wonderful texts started me thinking "What can I do to contribute? How can I be more useful to society?"

When I was 11, I thought charity is the way and I started gathering donations for different places.  After doing this for two years, I realized I would be able to accomplish much more working in a group, than just by myself.  So, I started talking to my friends and asked them to join me. By the end of the year, over 50 of us were working together to raise funds for the various charitable institutions.  Still I felt something was missing --"education! I thought". So I spoke to this group and we started helping kids with their studies so that they would be able to finish school. Then we also started teaching adults who wanted to join college again. Still, I felt incomplete. So I joined a political party when I was 16, and did not find fulfillment there either.

At 17, I started studying medicine, I was a great student getting very high grades. I was in a group that helped the freshmen with their work. I had left politics but I still was involved in different charitable and educational projects. By the time I was 20, I had even written a book, and soon felt completely burned out.

I had many health issues stemming from endocrine problems. I was tired all the time. I had problems sleeping, concentrating and even in relating to people.

That year my sister invited me to the Art of Living Course.  In the first week, I was feeling so great that when my teacher Beatriz Goyoaga told us to do some service activity, I said I want to go and help in the foundation.

In the first month after the course, I realized how I was studying better than ever, in less time. I was sleeping well, feeling energized, relaxed and focused - all together for the first time in my life.

In 2006, I participated in the Art of Living Silver Jubilee (25th anniversary).  There I met Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for the first time. I was astounded at the number of projects and volunteers Sri Sri had inspired around the globe. His work touched all segments of society, aimed at making life a celebration from.

I came back and started collaborating actively in the Art of Living's Argentina chapter and for the first time, at long last, I felt fulfillment - this was what I had been looking for since child.

Now I am an Art of Living Teacher since 2007 and I have been able to see the same change I have experienced in my life in thousands of people from all walks of life and every sector of society.

Jai GuruDev!
Jesica

Akash Barwal - Welcome Home

Senior Art of Living, Art of meditation, Blessings and Art of Silence Teacher
(Follow Akash ji 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aolakash)
Twitter: @aakashavani )




I think I’ve always been strange, not that I’m not now … : )
I grew up in the Gulf (Abu Dhabi), my childhood was full of love and care, well taken care by my beautiful parents ‘my teachers’, who stood by my side and taught me to believe in myself.
As a child I preferred being with the elders rather than my own age group, had a questioning mind and would not readily accept social norms and religious beliefs, sometimes being satirical or rebellious. I had an eventful youth, time passed by…
When I was nineteen, one day at a family friend’s house I saw picture of this bearded man with these deep compassionate eyes, at whom I kept staring for a while. I was told he was Sri Sri Ravi ShankAr,  a great spiritual master  from India. Although I don’t dream, that night I saw the same bearded man  holding my hand, walking by a garden at sunrise… I woke up feeling strange and laughed at myself… for the next three days I had the same dream… I ran to our family friend’s house to enquire what was happening to me… that was the first time I heard ‘Jai Gurudev ‘. He just smiled.
Within a week I told my parents about my decision to embark on a journey to meet this strange man coming in my dreams, a decision which they were strongly against, naturally. Strangely no amount of love, persuasion, force or greed stopped me and my urge to meet this strange bearded man kept growing. Finally, everyone had to give in….
And, finally here I was on my first train journey to Bangalore, with high fever and no idea as to where I was being led to, really! It was 14th May 1995, I remember reaching the ashram gates tired and weary after the journey and the fever, looking around. How would I know this would be my home for the rest of my life? I asked somebody where I could meet Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the person smiled at me and took me along to this beautiful amphitheater called Sumeru Mantap.
And right there at Sumeru, with an amazing sunset behind him, I finally saw my bearded man sitting under the Bodhi tree, eyes closed, singing and playing cymbals. I had never attended a satsang before, I was more interested in meeting the man in the center and was just wondering, when I would meet him, and voila! He just turned sideways looked straight at me at smiled, adding fuel to my excitemen At the end of the satsang he made everyone close their eyes, and as everyone was meditating, quietly walked away. As I was sitting by the entrance stairs, he walked straight towards me, looked at me and said, “Are you from Abu Dhabi?”  I don’t know what I said, I just nodded and looked at him with disbelief, we had never met before… He looked at me lovingly and said, “Now take rest, we will meet tomorrow”.
I had the deepest sleep that night and woke up fresh the next morning, my fever had gone. Sitting on the bed gazing outside the window, I was in absolute amazement, I did not know what was happening, where I was and what I was doing amidst these people dressed in white…
After a wonderful breakfast, I was moving about looking around when this calm looking gentleman came to me, asked me if I was from Au Dhabi and that the Master was calling me. On the way, upon my request, he was kind enough to give me one of his dhotis and help me tie it too; the gentleman was Raghuraj Raja (now Swami Sadyojatha).
I was led to this serene round cottage surrounded by trees and lots of bells - Shakti Kutir. And in Shakti Kutir, on a beautiful throne was sitting my bearded man… he was looking so majestic as though he was handling the affairs of heaven and earth from right there… yet so calm and compassionate, with twinkle in his eyes and a childlike naughty smile.
There were a few people in the room; he was combing his hair, talking to them, once in a while He would look at me and pass a smile; I was growing impatient. All of a sudden he looked at me and gestured, calling me towards him. Like a child runs to its mother, I went near him and looked at him. At once he said, “ask, what you want to ask”. To my amazement, I just looked at him, grinning and fumbling, didn’t know what to say, as all my great queries had evaporated! Not knowing what to say, I looked up and said with a tone of secrecy, “I want to talk something important, but alone”.
Since I was adamant on talking alone, after a while he sent everybody out of the room, this made the situation more comical as I didn’t know what I wanted to talk to Him about!
And, finally when he said, Hmmmmm..? I looked at him smiled and said, “nothing”!
So, here was I, far away from my home and family sitting at the feet of a strangely beautiful man not knowing what I was doing there but still felt as if all my journeys and quests had ended right there…
He just held me close and hugged me, that moment felt like an eternity, everything stopped, my heart was aching, I wept in his lap not knowing why, I was happy yet I had tears….
He asked me, “what do you want”, and at that moment there was nothing else I wanted. All I could say way, “I want to be with you forever”, He just smiled at me and said “Welcome home”

Debjani Mitra - Art of Living Experience

Art of Living Teacher

I am an Art of Living teacher – and a project and people manager in a leadership position in a BPO. Born and raised in India, I now live and work in the USA. I am going to tell you the story of my life in the Art of living.

From 7-12 August 2001, I did my Art of Living Part 1 course in Kolkata. I had gone there primarily to find a way out for my “stress induced” breathing disorder and irregular heart-beats. The doctor had said these had no physiological cause, and no sustainable remedy - for someone in her 20s. Saddled by the burden of countless pills that left a bitter taste in the mouth, sleepless nights and the fear of a debilitating and unexpected panic attack at any time and place – I walked into that room full of people – not knowing whether I would find an answer. After the first day’s session – I went up to the teacher – a charming personality with an angelic smile (Sarita Jaiswal, an Art of Living teacher in Kolkata), clad in pristine white – and explained my situation. She gave me the most genuine smile, held my hand and said “you have come to the right place”.

10 years down the line – I could not have agreed with her more.

Those 6 days were so deeply transformational that at the end of it – I had the distinct feeling that till 6^th of August 2001 I had lived someone else’s life. Was that really me? I remember asking myself. Where was all this enthusiasm, all this clarity, and centeredness – all these years? How did I even survive without it ? How could I have carried so much garbage all these years? Stuck to what someone else said or did – letting others rule my life..catching on to all the negative emotions people hurled at me.. not really knowing the bliss and lightness that was the REAL me..

And before I knew it – I was walking the Path. The path of Sadhana, Seva, Satsang, and swadhyay (introspection)

My sadhana(practices)became a part of my daily routine just like brushing my teeth. My friend Probal – who was my friend, philosopher and guide on this path – told me - “Invest in yourself” – so I invested in Art of Living courses. And being a finance professional myself – I was quick to realize that the return on investment was more than I ever expected. Oh – did I mention that I came off my medicines for the breathing and heart problems within 3 months of my practices ? It just seemed like a by-product. The real treasure was what I uncovered within myself.

With each passing day I found myself effortlessly letting go of guilt, fear, anger, jealousy.. so much so that after a particular situation happened I would wonder – Oh ! I did not react in a way I would have till 6^th August 2001.And at times even when the emotions would take over - I found myself coming out of them much sooner. In a nutshell I realized everything is changing. And that has been – the single most – all pervading – liberating and transforming, realization for me.

In time, by going to satsang regularly and connecting with people there, slowly and gradually the connection started getting extended to people in every walk of life - and that was very interesting !  

All of this made me get involved in more and more Seva (service ), being useful, being unconditionally available for whatever is the need of the moment. Soon when all these wondrous realizations about how I was changing happened, I found myself asking – now what? What do I do with this extra energy and enthusiasm ? It brought me back to a very old question I had – “what is the purpose of my life”. I found the answer – it was in being useful to others. To make others smile. I soon found myself volunteering for Art of Living seva projects – teaching health and hygiene in slums, cleaning up local parks, campaigning for tree plantations.. but the most important service – I realized – was to share this beautiful and life transforming knowledge – that the Sudarshan Kriya (SKY). brings. Hence I went on to pursue the teachers training course of Art of Living and became a teacher in 2009. Life has become even more exciting ever since – as every time I sit on the teacher’s chair and repeat the knowledge for the participants, I become more strongly established in it too. And to see the participants open up and smile from within – is the most fulfilling gift that I have in my life.

Grace and Gratitude :

 I feel grateful for everything – the good the bad and the ugly in my life. For every situation gives me an opportunity to grow. I feel grateful for whatever situations had led me to the point of despair till 6^th August 2001 – and which had prompted me to go for this course – without any knowledge whatsoever of how it could change my life. I still wonder how it all happened. Just as much as I wonder how this “connection” works.. the connection which answers my questions every day – when I open any random page of the book “Celebrating Silence”  and a page opens that is so crazily apt to the situation and state of mind I am in at that point – and immediately gives me a clue on how to get a handle on myself. The connection that if not the “Celebrating Silence” – some friend would come up and give me the knowledge that would be immediately uplifting – the first message in my inbox would be talking to me about what I am going through. This “connection” has never failed me – I have always been in its coverage the last 10 years.

Something that makes me realize – that it is really the grace, that brought me to this path – and grace – that takes me through every situation, good or bad, every day of my life.

And I am grateful for all those wonderful friends I have made on this path – and the amazing people I have met who have become my role models and have been there for me when I needed them- Those who have dedicated their lives for service, those who have amazing wit and amazing knowledge, amazing talents... and amazing connection.

And saving the best for the last – I am grateful to have met in this life a living Master - His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar – beloved Guruji. He is a world figure, yet, has always been available for me whenever I needed Him. How – is another story. That cannot be explained in words.

I had no idea what having a master, a Guru, a guide – meant. I never knew a Master could say “I am a garbage collector. Give me all your garbage, and be free” All I can say is – that with His presence in my life – joy has welled up without any reason, sorrow has diminished, talents have flourished, and abundance has increased. That – is the sign of a True Master – a “satguru”.
In a nutshell, Guruji and the Sudarshan Kriya have made me realize that I am as infinite, as limitless as the sky!
Jai GuruDev!

Swami Paramtej - art of living experience

Senior Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Art of Living Foundation

I was born and bought up in Delhi, India. Since the age of 10 years, I started meditating on my own. I was fascinated by epics like the Ramayana and the Krishna Leela, especially Lord Hanuman (The Monkey God) and his devotion to Lord Rama and his ability where nothing was impossible for him. I used to love listening to their stories but at the same time had little doubts whether these incidences actually happened.

Living a full life - with joy and contentment

I knew from the beginning that I did not exist in this world only to eat, drink, sleep and work. I also used to wonder how and what I would like to do before I leave this body, so that I have no regrets later on. Until the age of 27, I desperately wanted some guidance and started spiritual shopping. At last, I found Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji at a big public gathering in December 2000. I knew that this is the path I have to follow! I completed the Art of Living course in January 2001 and found all the answers in the course. I found that there is a buffet of everything I wanted to do. Be it service, singing dancing, yoga, knowledge and all in such abundance. I cannot imagine any other way of living life which is so full, which can give such joy and contentment. Being a teacher to impart this highest knowledge, to make people stress free and joyful, makes life a true celebration - it is amazing. I see it everyday - so many people get healed with yoga, pranayama, Sudarshan Kriya and blessings. I see so many benefits and miraculous improvements in people by doing the Art of Living courses. There is definitely a divine power which is working to give a direction to the world, irrespective of religion, nationality, caste, color, social status.




                     Video - Art of Living Course Experiences

How does Guruji manage this responsibility? He does it with such simplicity, as though it is not a big deal. And who wouldn't be charmed by his unconditional love?  In fact I just feel so grateful to be born at this time where I can not only see and be with him, but also have the opportunity to bring his knowledge to many people.

Shreya Chugh - Art of Living Experience:

Art of Living Teacher, ARTExcel, YES, National Director for The Art of Living -Youth Empowerment programs

I was born and raised in Bangalore, India. I went to Sri Aurobindo Memorial
School and hold a Masters degree in International Business. I’m an ardent lover
of adventure sports and hold the Kirmani Award for rappelling . I've also won
many accolades in white water rafting and trekking. My passion lies in graphic
design, photography, music, cartooning and painting. I’m currently working
as the National Coordinator for The Art of Living -Youth Empowerment programs
and focusing on teenage youth from all across India.

The ABC of My Master

My Friend - My Guide - My support - My ALL

I was raised on a golden platter with luxury at its highest peak! Money, gadgets, cars, 5 star hotels meant everything. I thought I owned the world. My ATTITUDE was up in the air until I met Ajay, who was my best friend at school and HIS UNCLE (His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar), mother– Bhanu Didi, Narasimhan Uncle, Amma– Gurudev’s mother, Pitaji – Gurudev’s father and Arvind! Not to miss, Chickoo - Ajay’s little pet dog !

Years passed by and I started to work for an Australian firm – Your Practice Online. Every day I would somehow feel I could be much more useful to the world in a different way. Every evening, I saw myself running back home, Ajay’s Uncle’s home – Sri Sri’s home! Often, I would visit the Art of Living International Ashram with Ajay, Pitaji and Amma to see Guruji. Initially, it was a picnic for me, a joy ride down the country side. In the ashram, I would sing, play, dance, meditate, serve and make new friends. All my friends were people from different countries, races, religions and backgrounds – This was an ideal place for me! My life! My Vision! My Expression! - An ideal Home! A One World Family!
After playing in the ashram, I would visit the Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth school
with Bhanu Aunty. This school was started by Guruji in 1986 with a handful of students and now it provides primary education to over 2000 students from over 20 villages around the ashram. The children studying in the school were mostly first generation learners. Aunty, Ajay, Arvind and I would visit the school very often and distribute books, uniforms and stationary to them. Aunty would listen to the children with such intensity and reply with such positivity, as if they were her own children. She herself would serve them their mid day meals. This was the atmosphere in the school. One always felt loved and at home. Bhanu Aunty inculcated great values in my life. From her, I learnt to love, to stretch my hand first and to share and care.

I heard Uncle – “His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar” once say - " Rich are those who share their food, richer are those who share their wealth, even richer are those who share their power and Richest are those who share themselves".  This ONE statement Transformed my life, 180 degrees!

Guruji’s simple messages to me as a child gave such depth to my existence! He would call me aside and give me small responsibilities. I remember, one day during Shiva Ratri celebrations, in the center, He called me and told me to light the lamp that was placed on the stage. I went running looking for the match and some oil. It was a windy day and each time I lit the lamp, it would go off. He watched me with such love and care, that look in his eyes which said – go ahead!  I'm here with u, it will light up! and there it did!  He always taught me to do small things, with great love!

Some years later, the ashram was to celebrate the inauguration of its new Meditation Hall – The Vishalakshi Mantap. Dignitaries, Heads of States, Saints, Spiritual leaders, Industrialists, Farmers and Students, had to be invited. For this, an invitation card had to be designed. The ad agencies were approached and they came up with certain design formats. Gurudev, looked at the designs and immediately said, “Our shreya, she is very good, she will make a beautiful design".  I looked at Him and wondered ' Where did He see such talent in me? I was a child! To design a card that would reach the world, inviting people, for this huge event?' He looked at me and asked "By evening it will be ready, right ?" I immediately, said ‘YES! Guruji ‘ With great confidence in my voice. I sat down to work, and it was done! I quickly took a color print and took it to Him. He looked at it with such appreciation and shared – "She is brilliant, right!" There were so many
others in the room, who smiled and applauded! This is Guruji. He uplifts you. He sees the best in you. He gives you the freedom to express! He makes you aware of the impossibilities that you can do!

In time I started to volunteer for the the Youth Empowerment Seminars in Bangalore city. At the end of each course, I observed a beautiful change in the participants.  There was so much belongingness, love, care, happiness, joy, celebration and smiles. People came together and broken homes got repaired! Relationships between parents and their children improved. I observed the same effects in my best friends who underwent the program. Then one day, I thought to myself, what am I doing? Guruji is doing so much for the society. He visits over 40 countries every year, transforming so many millions of lives. I can be of much more use. I decided to be an instrument of change! I wanted to bring a smile on every face!  Guruji was arriving in Bangalore after 3 months. This time, there was only one thought in my mind. I wanted to ask him, if I could teach and before I did, He read my mind. He told me, “Go do YES!”. For a second, I didn’t understand what He said. As I walked down from his Kutir, I saw myself becoming a part of the Teachers Training Program.

I had decided, I will do something BIG. Guruji has always blessed me with such confidence and guided me in every step of my life, just like a father would do to his child. He gave me such FAITH, that nothing in the world seemed impossible.  I had decided to be his BEST INSTRUMENT! His best teacher! 

My first challenge was going to Nagaland to conduct the YES program there.  Before I left, I seeked His blessings for the youth of Nagaland - "I always prayed for a stress-free and violence-free world."  As soon as I reached Nagaland (a small state in the fast east of India, troubled with insurgency ,drugs and AIDS), I organized Youth Empowerment Seminars.  We had 50 youth to start with and have now reached out to several thousand. The training not only focused on building their personality and communication skills, but it also worked on their emotional and spiritual aspects as individuals.  It inspired the participants to be free from violence, quit drugs, alcohol and smoking . Moreover they were inspired to volunteer for rural projects. The youth built homes for the homeless, organized health and cleanliness camps and also educated others about HIV- Aids.

In Nagaland, Guruji's teachings of love, practical wisdom, and service have promoted
harmony among people, and encouraged individuals to come together, love each
other and follow their chosen spiritual path, while honoring other paths.  Guruji travels to so many countries every year to share his message of social responsibility, conflict resolution, disaster and trauma relief, prisoner rehabilitation, women's empowerment, female foeticide, child labor, and access to education.

Today, with His Love and Care, I have touched the lives of over a million youth.
How much ever I write, its only going to fall short. I sincerely believe that dedicating myself to this cause, I am surely fulfilling the purpose of my life.

My pranams to my Guru , Jai Gurudev!

Pamela Brockman - Art of Living Experience

Art of Living Teacher, ARTExcel, YES, Art of Silence Teacher, USA

A Poetic Beginning

The mindset started a long time ago. In high school, I studied the poetry of Walt Whitman, an American poet of the “transcendental” school of thought. The writers of this time were greatly influenced by the Vedas and other writings. Walt Whitman’s poem, “Song of Myself” is quite Vedantic in nature as he sees all of creation as part of himself. I was so intrigued by this concept, I longed to learn to meditate and experience this and not just read about it. In a few years, while in college, I learned Transcendental Meditation (Art of Living hadn’t been formed yet!). I was in heaven --it was exactly what I had been looking for. My anxieties quieted and people noticed how I had changed.

Fast forward to 1991, I was a new mom with a young son, wishing for another child but unable to conceive. I was fortunate to be able to stay home and care for my son whom I adore. But I also used to yell a lot and was frustrated at leaving my career. My meditations were still deep and I had begun to desire a Spiritual Director I could consult to guide my experience. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar came into my life through a friend. I was not able to have another child, but that became less of a worry as I became very busy organizing courses and events for the Art of Living. It was not a choice but rather something I felt was an important and necessary part of my life. A happening.

I continued to become more and more involved, becoming a teacher of the Art of Living Course in 1998, ART Excel and YES! In 2000, the Art of Silence Course after that, as well as facilitating the Eternity Process. Teaching YES! In the Schools, Breath Water Sound for Trauma Relief and Sri Sri Yoga followed then, too.

Tricky Ego
With my son in high school and then college, I began to travel to Central and South America to teach. People would ask me if I also teach Sahaj Samadhi,(now The Art of Meditation) and the desire arose in me to also teach this course, so I could be more useful wherever I go. Guru Dev came to Chicago where I live and I asked him if I could become a Sahaj teacher. He said, “Yes, but first do your Pooja Phase 1 & 2 Courses.”

Now, even though I didn’t know how to perform it, soon after my first Art of Living course, I began to offer flowers and water and incense and fruit to Guru Dev(Sri Sri) in gratitude for the knowledge, techniques and growth. I remembered parts of the TM version of the Guru Pooja and would love to listen to it whenever I could.  I found versions of the Guru Pooja and began to learn the words. I would look up meanings of words and make up the rest in my mind.
Then, in 2010 TTC for Sahaj was offered for the first time in a very long time. Since I had been singing puja for some time, with others who had learned it the correct way from Bhanu Didi (Guruji's Sister), I thought maybe I could skip the Guru Pooja Phase 1 & 2 Courses and just take the TTC.  Why not? I could be more useful then. The thought was "I knew the pooja, so why should I take time for that course?" My mind rationalized and churned with planning and I applied for the TTC. Two of my friends from South America wrote to Guru Dev for special approval to take the TTC (as it was supposed to be only for English speakers, and only one spoke English well) and he said, “Yes.” I thought, “Oh, well, I can write too and maybe he’ll say I can go too!!! I wrote him and..... He said, (of course) “Finish your Puja 1 & 2 first.”When I heard back from Guru Dev, I cried, that in the midst of all of his responsibilities and greater problems and concerns of many, many other devotees, he bothered to write to me and guide my growth. I melted. Totally grateful, I registered for Pooja 1, still a bit smug, but happily resigned to the process.

Being “Fully Cooked”

Guru Dev’s comment made such an impression on me. Being “fully cooked” means being so equanimous, so centered, that nothing and no one can pull you out from your Self. Who knows how long this would take? My mind began to relax and realize that it’s all about the process and not the goal. I knew this intellectually, but it began to sink in deeper, experientially. Guru Dev’s in charge....I am growing at my own pace, and practicing my knowledge diligently helps, but I will grow and be fully cooked in my own time.

Awakening to Humility

In Hartford at the Guru Pooja Phase 1 Course, I surrendered more and more. I learned a lot -- different pronunciations I hadn’t heard before, meanings I didn’t know. I became more humble and grateful to be an instrument, however I am used, doing my 100% to do the will of the Divine, not MY will. Being totally Hollow & Empty, open and willing, simple and happy! What a relief!!!!! Jai Guru Dev!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Power of Youth - Leila Houshmand

            When I first got the information about the Youth in Social Innovation Symposium in D.C. I was excited at the prospect to spread the word about Global Brigades (www.globalbrigades.org) - after all, the mission of Global Brigades is one that I love to share, as it has really helped me to realize what I want to do with my career.  As a busy college student, like so many of us are, I’ve attended quite a few conferences and had gotten used to the monotony of listening to countless presentations for hours each day, and then taking the information back with me.  However, upon arriving at the Sri Sri Center for Peace and Meditation in Washington D.C., where the conference was being held, I could tell that this one was going to be a little different. Immediately upon meeting the organizers it was an exchange of hugs and we all removed our shoes, the atmosphere was definitely more welcoming and relaxed than any other conference I had ever attended.

             This relaxed atmosphere continued throughout the entire conference as we ended up leaving with a connection of not only colleagues, but also friends.  The four-day symposium explored the topics of youth and employment, youth and violence, and youth as agents for societal transformation. Throughout the conference various NGOs, professional organizations, and students were able to discuss the approaches that they have been a part of in order to engage youth in global initiatives, and where to go from the current standing.  It was refreshing to be a part of a symposium where the student opinion was truly listened to and valued, and even put on the same platform as those running the conference.  We discussed what a powerful role the youth of the world can play when they are armed with the tools to make positive change and how organizations can encourage these changes.  Not only was the conference filled with great discussion about the roles that NGOs are playing in global development, but there was also a self-improvement workshop put on by the Art of Living Foundation. 

            The Art of Living Program focused on breathing, yoga, and meditation as a means for personal empowerment.  Never having done yoga or meditation before, I definitely came into it not knowing what to expect, and came out of it so thankful that I ended up giving it a chance.  The program was one of the most calming and yet invigorating experiences that I have ever been a part of, and I was able to see first hand how this technique has been used in areas with conflict in order to diminish youth violence and encourage effective conflict resolution. 

           I was very thankful that I had attended the symposium, as not only did I get to spread the word about Global Brigades and the work that college students around the world are doing to promote holistic, sustainable change, but I also got a great chance to meet others in the field who are working towards these very same resolutions.  After only four days the conference stimulated me to continue my involvement with Global Brigades and the global initiatives that it is a part of, but I also made some really great relationships, and cannot wait for the one next year! 

Lakshmi Jagad - Art of Living experience

Art of Living YES Teacher, Software Engineer 

I was born and raised in Bombay. Of course, the name of the city has now been changed to Mumbai but for me (and for many others in my generation too,  I am sure), it will be Bombay. The city of memories, family, school and college, friends and fun.

I had a liberal upbringing. My parents are possibly two of the most generous and open-minded individuals I have ever met. They placed no restrictions whatsoever on either of us (I have a younger sister). We got pretty much everything we asked for.  My sister and I were good students. We learned classical music and dance, performed at various events, and were fairly good daughters, if you discount the occasional tantrum, fuss or outburst. As I completed high school and joined junior college (in India, you join college at age 16), I found a great bunch of friends. We shared a common love for music, films, art and humor. Boring college lectures, surprise birthday parties, New Year celebrations, art films and rock music, walks along the beach, night-long conversations on philosophy and life, dreams and ambitions - these were the highlights of my junior college years. Soon after, I joined an engineering college. New friends, bigger parties, overnight treks... and life went on. Then I graduated from college and started working as a software developer. Everything continued as before.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar - The Inspiration



It was all wonderful and exciting and adventurous and yet at the age of 25, I felt like I had come to a full stop. Until then, life had been a series of events, people, places and experiences for me but suddenly it seemed that there had to be a deeper idea to it. Certain incidents in the past couple of years made me wonder if I really knew myself. I felt at conflict with my own self and with certain others in my life. I found myself thinking - Is there any purpose to all this? Who am I? Is there a meaning to these incidents and situations and people?

Suffices to say that The Art of Living Course came at the right time to me. I attended an Art of Living Course, then a couple of Art of Silence Courses, and then The Art of Meditation Course.

A year after my first course, I met Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the founder of Art of Living Foundation. Even before I met him, I had seen many videos of his. To me, he always came across as someone familiar, someone who I had known since a very long time. And when I finally met him, it felt like a true homecoming.

I had had no experience with Gurus or spiritual masters while growing up. Yet, it was a matter of few months before I came to see Sri Sri as my personal Guru. There was zero deliberation or thinking involved. It's interesting how some of the major decisions in my life were not decisions at all; they just came to be in the most natural way possible. Some things you simply know without having even a single thought. 

Youth Empowerment Seminar(YES!)

I conduct the Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES!) for teenagers, and on one course, I remember talking about Sri Sri to the young participants. I said, "To me, Sri Sri or Guruji is a person who makes me feel like I can do anything. In his presence, I feel strong, complete, powerful. I feel like there is no limit to what I can achieve and accomplish. When I am around him, all my doubts and concerns disappear."

There is so much more I can say about Guruji and how he has truly brought out the best in me on so many levels. Intellectual maturity, a broader sense of perspective about the self and the world, a desire to learn and share... and most of all, a sense of abundance and fullness. Today, I feel like I lack nothing and I want nothing. Moment to moment, my life is full and complete. To Guruji, I owe this precious realization and many many others. 

Sunanda Gadagottu - Art of Living Experience

Art of Living Teacher, California, USA

A year before I first attended the Art of Living course over nine years ago, I was blazing through an Interior Design Program after having dropped being an engineer for good. I had a lot of fun and the design projects were things of absolute delight. As a final project in Principles of Design, I chose to build a model of a “spiritual retreat”. It represented the journey of a man. Looking back, I realize it was a reflection of where I was headed. Even before knowledge blossomed in my life and many veils were lifted from my mind, I was projecting what I was to realize very soon.

My design was purely conceptual and abstract—you couldn’t build it into a real building. It began with a large chaotic region with negative spaces, dead ends, and mazes.  It progresses into (you mathematicians will get this) spaces of definite shape and openness like a Dodecahedron and finally evolving into a sphere whose boundaries are almost non-existent. This journey is connected by a path designed with a proportion called a “Divine Proportion” in mathematics. You may be beginning to see where I am going with this, or may be not. What happened with that program, you may ask - have you graduated?….No, I was yanked out of it to speed on the real divine highway.

Everything on this path brings amazement to me. The journey of my imagination had been made real by a touch of magic, shifting and transforming every moment. I don't know when this journey started, but I was made fully aware of where I was going when I first attended the Art of Living course. Suddenly it was as if someone held up a lamp and lighted my path. Here I am now taking a look in the rear view mirror and seeing all the mountains I scaled, the canyons I crossed, the fires I walked through…… sometimes trudging on, sometimes leaping from treetop to treetop like in a Chinese movie and I look forward and see nothing different, but I have become someone else. The future brings very little fear, the past has very few strings- this path has made me full and empty.

By the way, the path of divine proportions that I designed then and the path of divinity I am now walking on is the Path of Yoga. This path where mice become lions, beasts show their beauty, flowers find their fragrance, people walk like kings….. this path where one is free and yet wholly connected to everyone, this path I gladly traverse.

Art of Living Health and Lifestyle Benefits

Stress, Tension, Fear to Vibrant, Enthusiastic , Energetic Life

I used to have a lot of problems in life. All these had added stress and tensions and ended up in fear for everything and finally nervous disorder and high blood pressure. The doctor gave me medicine like Alprazolam .I could not meet my dead lines in office and too many fearful thoughts disturbed me. After doing Art of Living Course and Art of Silence courses, I started looking young and vibrant,enthusiastic for everything and full of energy. Life is different now. - Ajay Bhall, Panchkula, India

Contentment and Peace in Life

I did my first Art of Living Course in Feb 1994.Stress at home and work place had resulted in undergoing  a by pass surgery in 1996. I had sleepless nights feeling irritated and fear of the future. I retired from work in 1998  and decided to become an Art of Living teacher.  It has been 16 years since I did my first Art of Living Course. During this time, my fears have reduced, contentment and peace has set in my life. - U.S Prakasam, Gujarat, India