Once Inspired

Let me start off by explaining what The Art of Living is. (The Art of Living does however kindly ask that we do not repeat or teach any of the techniques or methods used, and I intend on fulfilling their request.)

Developed by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the Art of Living involves using various techniques to quiet the mind in order to achieve a greater understanding of one’s existence, giving you the ability to experience a stress-free and joyful life.

“The Art of Living Foundation is a non-profit, educational and charitable organisation that operates in more than 140 countries and is dedicated to serving society by strengthening the individual.

Our self-development programmes offer techniques that eliminate stress, calm the mind, improve health, expand awareness, resolve conflict and encourage people from all backgrounds, religions and cultures to come together in celebration and service.

As the largest volunteer based NGO in the world with a wide range of social, cultural and spiritual activities, the Foundation has reached out to over 20 million people from all walks of life.”

The Art of Living is not religion based. Sri Sri Ravi Shanka has spoken and presented his enlightened knowledge in a variety of holy temples and has presented The Art of Living to Christians, Jews, Islams and many other relions; where he was welcomed and applauded by all.

There is no real reason why you should not experience this for yourself and I would encourage you to attend the Art of Living: Part 1 course. It is however vital that you attend with an open mind as the knowledge you acquire is unique and the benefits cannot be fully experienced by a doubting mind.

I had an amazing experience this weekend at the Art of Living: Part 1 course. The idea of the Art of Living is to quiet the mind to such a state that thoughts are nonexistent, allowing us to become aware of our body and just exist in our most natural form.

It was interesting for me to experience the dynamics of the group attending the course. Some people appeared to be completely serious and had a stern look most of the time, which made little sense to me as part of what The Art of Living is meant to develop is a more child like state; one of happiness and intrigue. These people seemed more like business people attending a conference. Others though were having an absolute blast. They were the ones who took a liking to me and also happened to thank me for my honesty in the questions that I posed.

All in all the Art of Living is almost a must do for everyone. The stress of modern day life has such an extremely negative impact on our lives and most of us can use a little upliftment. Can you imagine being able to just forgive and forget? Can you imagine how nice it would be to be able to just let things go? What would it be like to live a life of acceptance?

The Art of Living can give you all of this. If you’d like to know more please visit www.artofliving.org.za or email gerlinde@artofliving.org.za. The next Art of Living Part 1 course will take place 8-13 December. When you do decide that you would like to attend this course please email me – nic@once-events.co.za. I’d just like know who you are.

I would like to thank Mukesh and Gerlinde for sharing the Art of Living with us and bettering people’s lives through the insight of Sri Sri Ravi Shanka.