- Empowering Teens to Preserve Happiness: A Landmark Initiative
Bengaluru In a significant step towards promoting mental well-being among students, The Art of Living, founded by global spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has partnered with 70 schools and universities across India. Through these collaborations, over 1.78 lakh students will benefit from transformative practices like Sudarshan Kriya and meditation. The initiative aims to equip young minds with tools to manage stress, improve focus, and nurture emotional resilience.
The Need for Mental Health Support
“Children are born happy, but by the time they reach their teens, that happiness diminishes,” Gurudev noted during the event at The Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru. “Students worldwide face tremendous stress, leading to issues like depression and aggression. Suicide rates on campuses are alarmingly high. It’s crucial to provide them with techniques to preserve their happiness.”
The initiative reflects The Art of Living’s dedication to creating drug-free, stress-free campuses. With mental health challenges among youth on the rise — depression rates in Indian teens range between 31% to 57% — this intervention comes at a critical time.
Holistic Programs Tailored for Youth
Specialized programs such as Medha Yoga and Utkarsh Yoga for children and teens, and YES!+ (Youth Empowerment and Skills) for college students, integrate breathwork, meditation, and life skills. These courses aim to:
- Reduce Stress: Breathing techniques help manage anxiety and promote calmness.
- Improve Focus: Meditation enhances concentration and creativity.
- Boost Emotional Well-being: Students report greater emotional stability and improved relationships.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Life skills training empowers students to take on leadership roles confidently.
These programs also address modern challenges like digital addiction, helping students maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Success Stories from Schools
Educational institutions across India have already witnessed the impact. Aruna Ramakrishnan, President of Bharathi Vidya Bhavan Higher Secondary School in Erode, shared, “Medha Yoga brought profound changes. Students reported better health, stronger relationships, and enhanced mental peace. This initiative is a game-changer.”
S.H. Kulkarni, Director of Mayo College, Ajmer, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative effects of Sudarshan Kriya. “Students manage stress better, are emotionally stable, and concentrate more effectively. It’s a blessing for both educators and learners.”
A Global Movement
The Art of Living’s success isn’t limited to India. Similar programs have been implemented in prestigious institutions worldwide, including AIIMS, IITs, NITs, and universities in the U.S., where the initiative spans over 135 campuses. This global reach underscores the universal relevance of mental health support for students.
Shaping the Future
Educationalists play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation. By igniting young minds and channeling their energy constructively, initiatives like this can foster societal transformation. As Gurudev emphasized, giving students tools to preserve their happiness is not just about individual well-being but about creating a more compassionate, resilient society.
With continued partnerships and innovative programs, The Art of Living aims to empower more students to thrive, leading to a brighter, stress-free future for all.
