Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is an Indian spiritual leader and founder of the Art of Living Foundation, a non-profit organization that offers programs to promote personal and societal well-being. The foundation was established in 1981 and has since grown to become one of the world's largest volunteer-based organizations.
The Art of Living Foundation offers a variety of programs, including the Art of Living Course, which is designed to help individuals manage stress and achieve inner peace through breathing techniques, meditation, and yoga. The foundation also provides programs focused on youth empowerment, prison reform, and disaster relief.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a proponent of interfaith dialogue and has worked to promote peace and reconciliation in conflict zones around the world. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to society, including the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award.
The teachings of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Art of Living Foundation have been embraced by millions of people around the world, and the organization has a presence in more than 150 countries. The foundation's work is based on the principles of compassion, service, and a commitment to creating a more peaceful and harmonious world.
The philosophy of the Art of Living Foundation is based on the ancient Indian spiritual tradition of Vedanta, which emphasizes the unity of all beings and the pursuit of self-realization. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has adapted these teachings for modern times, making them accessible and relevant to people from all backgrounds and cultures.
The Art of Living philosophy is centered on the concept of "Pancha Kosha," which means the five sheaths or layers of existence. These five sheaths are:
Annamaya Kosha - the physical sheath or layer, which relates to the body and the physical world.
Pranamaya Kosha - the energetic sheath, which relates to the breath and the life force energy.
Manomaya Kosha - the mental sheath, which relates to the mind and emotions.
Vijnanamaya Kosha - the intellectual sheath, which relates to knowledge and wisdom.
Anandamaya Kosha - the blissful sheath, which relates to the experience of pure consciousness and inner peace.
The Art of Living Foundation teaches that by practicing techniques such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises, individuals can purify and balance these five sheaths, leading to a greater sense of well-being and inner harmony.
