Art of Living: Making Life a Celebration
The Art of Living: A Complete Guide to Inner Peace, Personal Growth, and Holistic Well-Being
What Is The Art of Living?
The Art of Living Foundation is a global, non-profit, educational and humanitarian organization dedicated to creating a stress-free, violence-free society. Founded in 1981, the movement has completed more than 44 years of service, impacting over 80 crore lives through 10,000+ centers across 182 countries.
In a world filled with pressure, uncertainty, and emotional overload, The Art of Living offers practical tools—breathwork, meditation, yoga, wisdom, and service—to help individuals live with clarity, balance, and joy.
Gurudev: Founder
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, fondly known as Gurudev, is the founder of The Art of Living Foundation and one of the world’s most respected humanitarian leaders and spiritual teachers.
Born in 1956 in Southern India, Gurudev was a gifted child who could recite the Bhagavad Gita at the age of four. He studied under Sudhakar Chaturvedi, a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, and completed his education in Vedic Literature and Physics at the age of 17.
His life’s vision is beautifully summed up in his words:
“Unless we have a stress-free mind and a violence-free society, we cannot achieve world peace.”
Through wisdom, compassion, and action, Gurudev has united millions globally—across religions, cultures, and nations.
Sudarshan Kriya™: The Core Practice of Art of Living
At the heart of Art of Living programs lies Sudarshan Kriya™, a powerful rhythmic breathing technique designed to harmonize the body, mind, and emotions.
Benefits of Sudarshan Kriya™
- Reduces stress, anxiety, fatigue, and negative emotions
- Enhances mental calm, energy, focus, and emotional balance
- Improves overall physical and mental well-being
Scientific Validation
Multiple scientific studies have linked Sudarshan Kriya™ with:
- Reduction in stress, depression, anxiety, and PTSD
- Better cardiorespiratory health and immune function
- Improved emotional regulation and mental clarity
This makes it one of the most researched breathing techniques in the world.
Art of Living Centers in India and Worldwide
Art of Living Centers in India and worldwide
The Art of Living operates through 10,000+ centers globally, offering spaces for meditation, yoga, learning, and community service.
Major Art of Living Centers in India
- Bengaluru International Center
The global headquarters, home to the iconic Vishalakshi Mantap, daily meditations, satsangs, retreats, and teacher-training programs. - Rishikesh Center
Ideal for silence retreats, deep meditation programs, and yogic immersion near the Himalayas. - Pune – Triveni Ashram
Known for residential courses, advanced meditation programs, and wellness retreats.
Each center welcomes people from all walks of life, creating an atmosphere of peace, inclusion, and inner growth.
https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/centers
Art of Living Courses: Programs for Every Stage of Life
1. Meditation Programs for Adults
Beginner-Level Programs
- Happiness Program
- Happiness Program for Youth
- Sahaj Samadhi Dhyana
- Online Meditation Programs
- Sudarshan Kriya Follow-Ups
Advanced-Level Programs
- Advanced Meditation Program (AMP)
- Dynamism for Self and Nation (DNS)
- Blessings Program
- Volunteer and Teacher Training Programs
These programs help participants manage stress, build emotional resilience, and experience inner peace.
2. Children & Teen Programs (Ages 5–18)
Specially designed programs for young minds include:
- Utkarsha Yoga (8–13 years)
- Medha Yoga (14–18 years)
- Intuition Process
- Know Your Child / Know Your Teen Workshops
Key Benefits
- Better focus and concentration
- Emotional strength and stress management
- Confidence, positive behavior, and healthy relationships
3. Corporate & Leadership Programs
Art of Living also works with organizations to enhance employee well-being and leadership effectiveness.
Key Programs
- APEX – Achieving Personal Excellence
- Art of Leadership Program
- Mindfulness & Emotional Intelligence Workshops
These programs improve clarity, communication, teamwork, and stress resilience in the workplace.
4. Yoga Programs
Rooted in a 5,000-year-old yogic tradition, Art of Living yoga integrates body, breath, and mind.
Yoga Offerings
- Sri Sri Yoga (Foundational Classes)
- Sri Sri Yoga Deep Dive Retreats
- Daily Online Yoga Programs
- Advanced Yoga Retreats
Yoga Benefits
- Improved flexibility, strength, and immunity
- Reduced stress and mental fatigue
- Enhanced inner balance and awareness
Social Impact of The Art of Living Foundation
Beyond individual growth, The Art of Living is deeply committed to service and social transformation.
Impact Highlights
- 80+ crore lives touched
- 75+ rivers rejuvenated
- 1,356+ free schools educating over 100,000 children
- 4.75 lakh+ individuals trained in livelihood skills
- 30+ lakh farmers trained in natural farming
- 10+ crore trees planted
Key Focus Areas
- Education and peacebuilding
- Environment care and river rejuvenation
- Rural development and skill training
- Organic farming and farmer empowerment
- Women empowerment and menstrual health (Project Pavitra)
- Prison rehabilitation and disaster relief
How The Art of Living Helps You Grow in Life
The Art of Living is not about renouncing life—it is about living fully and consciously.
Through its programs, people experience:
- Better stress management and emotional stability
- Sharper focus, productivity, and decision-making
- Healthier relationships and communication
- A deeper sense of purpose, confidence, and inner peace
Why Choose The Art of Living?
The Art of Living offers a complete system for holistic living—combining meditation, breathwork, yoga, wisdom, and service. Whether you are a student, professional, homemaker, or leader, its tools remain relevant throughout life.
By nurturing peaceful individuals, The Art of Living continues to build a healthier, happier, and more compassionate world—one breath at a time.
