Learning the art of beating stress

A programme that encourages people from all walks of life to come together in celebration and service


Have you recently moved house, changed your work hours or altered your social activities? Are your children changing school, taking exams or leaving home? If yes, then you - or someone in the family - may be feeling under pressure. Though common events for many people in the UAE and part of "normal life", the worries and negative feelings generated can adversely impact one's health and emotional well being, causing stress. Even joyous events in life - marriage, a newborn, holidays - are now recognised as stressful.

But one lady has taken on a mission to reduce stress levels among people and bring a smile back, using Art of Living methods.

Instructor Leela Ramesh explains, "Art of Living is an international organisation, active in about 140 countries in matters relating to health and conflict resolution. Founded by Sri Sri Ravishankar, the organisation offers programmes that eliminate stress, create a sense of belonging, restore human values, and encourage people from all walks of life to come together in celebration and service."

She says that by not accepting people and situations as they are, but resisting them, people lose sleep and peace of mind, encouraging stress and possibly ill-health. "Nowhere do we learn to handle negative emotion, yet a stress-free mind and a disease-free body are the birthright of every individual."

Five years ago, Leela began studying "Art of Living" techniques in Abu Dhabi, primarily using the "power of breath". She felt her attitude to life was transformed. Later, she went to Bangalore to train as an instructor. Leela remembers, "After taking the programme, I understood there were 'cobwebs' in my mind inhibiting me from being joyful. I also realised I had strength and uniqueness. I became aware of living in a 'comfort zone' thus blocking life's infinite possibilities."

She emphasises that everyone is born with unique talents; it is only a matter of recognising them and believing in oneself. Good health and a strong body naturally follow a calm mind and stable emotions, she says, and is working to share this with others. "Often, I hear people in Abu Dhabi say, 'I'm too busy for such a programme, maybe next month'. Or that they have no time for breathing exercises. I tell them, 'NOW is the time you need it. Then you will be able to handle the situation!'"

The methodology is also a preventative measure, she says, not just for people with problems, health or otherwise, but also those wanting to enrich his or her quality of life. "I suggest people undertake the programme when things are going well, preparing themselves should life present some rough roads."

Regular workshops are conducted in Abu Dhabi. These are 18 to 22 hours over six consecutive sessions spanning five evenings and one weekend. In an informal atmosphere, relaxation methods are taught; discussions and interactive activities to improve communication skills are implemented. Breathing plays an important role in the coping process. So Sudarshan Kriya - a simple breathing exercise that helps release negative emotions - is taught.

Leela's next Art of Living workshop commences on February 8. Weekly follow-up sessions monitor workshop attendees. "A daily 20-minute practise of the techniques will keep stress at bay," says Leela, "and life will become a celebration."