Venezuela meditates

Thousands learnt breathing exercises and did a guided meditation

Breathing techniques to become a part of Venezuela’s social wellness program

For the first time breathing techniques and meditation will become a part of the social wellness program in Venezuela, thanks to the initiatives of the government and some enterpreneurs. What triggered this idea? An open meditation program in three Venezuelean cities. The high interest that the open class generated inspired the city hall and various other companies to sponsor the event. The aim is to make such open meditations into monthly affairs.

“Even in the middle of the cities with horns, and people shouting around, I could connect with myself and feel a lot of peace,” said Carlos de Gouveia, a physician at the National Medical Hospital, at the end of the open meditation workshop. “It was a fascinating experience."

“The breathing exercises taught in the workshop not only help relieve stress but also eliminate anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and negative emotions,” says Francisco Moreno, Director of the Art of Living in Venezuela and also the teacher of the workshop. A few minutes of breathing practices had palpable results: “The participants felt more relaxed, light and energetic after the event,” adds Maria Isabel Dupouy, the first Venezuelan Art of Living teacher.

Francisco and Maria conducted the open class in Caracas, offering a mixture of knowledge, breathing exercises, guided meditation, among other activities.

Alicia Morea, lawyer by profession, shared that after the session she felt much more relaxed and centered, the anxiety she had been carrying just disappeared. Amongst the participants was also the first secretary of the Indian Embassy. “I’m surprised at the large number of people here,” he said, rather amazed.

Many passers-by were intrigued by the workshop. “I just was passing by and saw many people sitting together and I wanted to check it out. I loved the talk and I have already signed up for the course,” said an excited Ariana Gomez, civil engineering student.

With beaming smiles, the participants conveyed gratitude for Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the founder of The Art of Living, for being the inspiration behind their transformation.

At the end of the class, more than the 1000 participants chanted and sang, creating a very special environment of peace and joy.

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Testimonials

M.,
age 26
“I had decided to go back to my anti-depressants before this (The Art of Living) course, but now I don’t need them. I will practice these techniques every single day for the rest of my life. I only hope other people are lucky enough to take this course. It has given me more help than I could have ever imagined possible. Thank you.”

Course participant

“I’ve been suffering from a loss of concentration, weak memory and extreme anger. Now I feel as if something heavy has been lifted from my back.”

Course Participant

“I found that this training of breathing is so useful and its benefit shows when I do it. I feel that my heart is stronger and younger. When I can’t sleep I just do the breathing and I feel energy in all parts of my body.”

Dr. Venus

“I feel peace with myself and have less stress. I think if I continue with the practice, this feeling of peace will continue to grow.”

M. Ali Bankat

"Before this experience, I was sad, depressed and starting to lose hope because of the situation here in Iraq. Now, after only four days, I feel confident in myself – happier, have hopes and dreams again and I feel that life is so beautiful. I have started to love everyone and physically I have much more energy and am able to do more things. I want to thank you very much for helping all of us feel better.”