FAQS

What is the goal of Art of Living Foundation?

Art of Living Foundation is dedicated to serving society by strengthening the individual. We do this by offering programmes that eliminate stress, create a sense of belonging, restore human values, love, compassion and encourage people from all backgrounds, religions, and

cultural traditions to come together in celebration and service. In short the goal is to put the smile back on every face.

What is taught in the Art of Living course?

A broad range of processes are introduced during the course. This includes:

Sudarshan Kriya®: This technique is the cornerstone of the course and is a powerful technique reintroduced to the world by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Pranayama: Breathing is normally an unconscious process. Through the practice of pranayama's, you will learn to consciously govern the breath so that it brings harmony into your body, mind and spirit.

Purna Yoga (Yoga of Fullness): The Art of Living believes that the practice of yoga postures can and should be enjoyable, restful and expansive. The simple postures that you will learn can be done by all and will bring rejuvenation and centeredness into the midst of our busy lives.

Living in the Present: The Art of Living Course includes a number of processes to help you to live more fully in the present moment. These processes can open your awareness to a whole new way of being!

All of the techniques and processes that you learn on the course can be practiced at home every day, so that the gifts of the course can continue to unfold and grow in your life.

What is the significance and focus on the breath? Why is it so important?

Breathing is normally an unconscious process. The Breath is the link between the body, mind and spirit. When the mind is free of fear, guilt and anger, and is more centred, then it can heal the system of any ailment. Through the practice of our breathing techniques, you will learn to consciously govern the breath so that it brings harmony into your body, mind and spirit.

What is Sudarshan Kriya®?

This unique breathing practice is a potent energiser. Every cell becomes fully oxygenated and flooded with new life. Negative emotions that have been stored as toxins in the body are easily uprooted and flushed out. Tension, frustrations and anger are released and anxiety, depression and lethargy are washed away. After the practice one is left calm and centered with a clearer vision of the world and oneself. A sense of joy in the moment prevails where once again we can smile from our hearts. And when we feel good about ourselves, love flows naturally in all our relationships with others.

Is it a self development programme or something spiritual?

Its both! The basis of spirituality is simply knowing ourselves better. You will find that the Art of Living Course releases layers of stress without effort. You will discover the hidden laws that govern the mind, as well as skills for dealing effectively with negative emotions. In addition you will enjoy the ancient practices of yoga, meditation and rhythms of breath, as these are combined in new ways to nourish all levels of the body, mind and spirit.

How long has this course been taught?

Since the early 1980's. Since then millions of people from different backgrounds, religions and cultures have done the course globally.

Are you a religious organisation?

No. We are an international non-profit, educational and humanitarian Non Governmental Organisation (NGO). We work in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations(ECOSOC), participating in a variety of committees and activities relating to health, education, sustainable development and conflict resolution.

Are you affiliated to a particular religion?

No. The courses are open to people of all ages, genders, backgrounds, cultures and traditions across the world. They do not conflict with any persons existing religious or spiritual practices. "We identify ourselves as somebody - I belong to this religion, this culture, this tradition, but we forget the basic identity that we are human beings. When that stands first and foremost, all other identities follow behind that." --H.H.Sri Sri Ravi Shankar