Embarking on Inner Discovery: My Art of Living Happiness Program Journey

Day 1: Embracing the Breath

The journey started with breath exploration, the cornerstone of The Art of Living philosophy. Initially each participant was given a badge with their name to wear around their neck and was asked to greet all the other participants in the room by saying Sangachhadhwam – a Sanskrit word meaning- Let us move together. 

Post this, three stages of Pranayama and Bhastrika Pranayama in Ujjayi Breathing were taught.

Day 2: Unraveling the Mind and Emotions

The second day unfolded with enlightening discussions, delving deeper into the intricacies of the mind and its impact on emotions. The practice of Sudarshan Kriya, led by an audio note of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar, offered profound insights into managing stress and releasing negative emotions, paving the way for clarity and lightness.

Day 3: Cultivating Inner Peace

As the program progressed, we were guided to explore the essence of tranquility and contentment. Through interactive sessions, we uncovered the sutras for living a joyful life. Sharing personal stories fostered a sense of connection and empowerment, leading to profound relaxation and contentment.

Day 4: Embracing Joy and Gratitude

The final day marked a celebration of our collective journey and growth. Engaging in group activities and receiving life mantras from our teacher, we rejoiced in the bonds forged and the wisdom gained. Concluding with an independent practice of Sudarshan Kriya, I embraced a renewed sense of gratitude and purpose, ready to embrace the joys of life with an open heart.

Examples of questions asked: 

1. Who are you (Asked repeatedly)

2. What are your needs and responsibilities 

3. When have you come to this planet

4. How long do you intend to stay

5. What do you want to do in the desired time

6. What have you done to bring divine values to someone else

As I bid farewell to the program, I carry a renewed sense of purpose and a tranquil mindset. The sutras for living a joyous life:

• Opposite values are complementary

• Don’t see the intention behind other's mistakes.

• Don’t be a football of other's opinions

• Accept people as they are, accept yourself as you are, and then take action!

• Be in the present moment

I have tried to expand on the learnings in my own words: 

Opposite values are complementary

In this grand stage of life, a cosmic play,

Where opposites dance in night and day.

Positives and negatives, a relative show,

In the absolute, they cease to flow.

Once begun, a tale unwinds,

Joy discovered, in unexpected finds.

Opposite values, they intertwine,

Reluctance births fulfillment’s shine.

Ravana's shadow, to Ram's light,

A tale of glory, in the darkest night.

Stars in the sky, against the night's cloak,

Each shines brighter, as darkness evokes.

So, embrace the opposites, let them be,

For in their dance, we find unity.

In every contrast, a story unfolds,

Opposite values, together they hold.

Don't be a football of other’s opinion

In the ebb and flow of opinion's sway,

Like bubbles on water, they fade away.

From praise to critique, they swiftly change,

Yet in their dance, why rearrange?

Awake to the truth, let opinions glide,

In the river of life, they swiftly ride.

Be strong within, in your own light,

For in your essence, find true might.

Don't be a puppet, a mere football,

To other's whims, don't let them call.

Stand firm, see life's vast expanse,

In your own being, find your dance.

Live in the present

In the dance of time, our minds do roam,

Caught between past and future's foam.

But heed the sage's timeless plea,

In the present moment, find the key.

Live in the now, let go of the past,

Grudges fade, they cannot last.

Foolish resolutions, they dissolve,

In the present, problems resolve.

Love is not an emotion, but a state

In the face of love, how do we fare?

Do we falter, or stand with care?

Feel obliged, or freely receive?

In love's presence, how do we believe?

Shrinking back, or embracing truth?

Doubting worth, or feeling new?

Reciprocate falsely or from the heart?

Doubt the sincerity, or play our part?

Yet deep within, a knowing lies,

Love's not a feeling, but a sunrise.

So open your heart, let love's light shine,

In its infinite embrace, true peace we find.

Don’t make a mistake, by pointing out mistakes

In the realm of errors, what should we do?

Pointing fingers, does it serve us true?

To highlight faults, a precarious game,

Inviting discord, breeding shame.

Before we speak, let's pause to see,

If our words will set hearts free.

Will they mend, will they heal,

Or simply wound, and truth conceal?

A magnanimous soul, with gentle grace,

Corrects with love, in every space.

Through actions kind, and words that mend,

Compassion guides, us to the journey's end.

See others as yourself

In the mirror of existence, reflections dance,

Each soul a vessel, in life's cosmic trance.

Imagine, if you will, a world of one,

Reflections of each other, under the sun.

As you rest in bed, thoughts may roam,

Realize every person, is just like home.

In a wrestling match, or a sparrow's flight,

See yourself in others, shining bright.

No need to fight, or cause distress,

For in others, find your own address.

Unity is the key, to ending the strife,

See others as yourself, and embrace this life.

Your nature is peace

In the depths of your being, peace does reside,

Yet restlessness creeps, like a rising tide.

Freedom, your birthright, yet chains you wear,

In bondage, you dwell, unaware.

Happiness, your essence, a constant flow,

Yet misery clouds, in shadows low.

Contentment, your birthplace, desires to deceive,

In their grasp, you struggle and grieve.

Embrace your nature, infinite and true,

Peace, beauty, and joy reside in you.

In the depths of your soul, find the Self,

And in its embrace, find infinite wealth.