‘Get a glimpse of the joy’ at Hong Kong mental wellness event led by guru and meditation expert Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
- Founder of The Art of Living, Gurudev Ravi Shankar has practised breath-based meditation techniques since the 1970s,
- He will lead the Breathe, Meditate, Celebrate event at Hong Kong’s harbourfront on March 16, which will focus on mental well-being
Indian spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has struck a chord with millions of people over the decades. Today, with mental health a global issue, his wise words resonate more than ever.
This month Hong Kong taps into his knowledge when Shankar, the founder of The Art of Living, a non-profit educational and humanitarian organisation active in more than 180 countries, leads a meditation event in the city.
Called “Breathe, Meditate, Celebrate”, it will be held on March 16 at the Wan Chai Harbourfront. More than 3,000 people are expected to attend. “Join and get a glimpse of the joy, enthusiasm and love that is life,” says Shankar.
“The quality of our life depends on the state of our mind,” says Shankar. “Time is always new, every day is new and every moment is new. But when we attend to it with all our attention and enthusiasm, we make it a celebration.”
A global humanitarian, Shankar, 67, has more than 40 years of experience in teaching breath-based meditation techniques.
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To those intrigued as to what role a guru plays, Shankar says it is about helping people look within.
“The guru is a reflection of your true nature and a guide leading you back to yourself,” Shankar tells the Post. “Essentially, there is no difference between God, guru and the self.
“Throughout the ages, four types of people come to a guru – those who are sad, those who want something in life, those who are inquisitive about the nature of existence and want to know the truth, and the knowledgeable. The guru is equally available to all.”
Shankar says he has noticed that the new generation is more spiritually aware and environmentally sensitive. “This is a good sign.”
Hong Kong-based Swami Gyantej, regional director of The Art of Living, says welcoming Shankar to Hong Kong again – he last visited six years ago – is a great moment.
“It is a special opportunity for everyone to come together and experience how easy, effortless and joyful meditation can be,” says Gyantej.
Since 2005, The Art of Living has organised World Culture Festivals that celebrate diversity. Last year more than one million people attended the festival in Washington.
In addition to the “Breathe, Meditate, Celebrate” event, Shankar will conduct a masterclass, the “Wisdom Series”, on March 17, sharing techniques of breath-based meditation.
As for advice on how to lead a happy and healthy life, maintaining clarity in the mind, purity in the heart and sincerity in one’s actions are key, he says.
“Trust yourself and trust the higher force that is taking care of you all the time.” And keep mobile phone use to a minimum.
“No technology is inherently harmful on its own. Mobile phones offer a lot of convenience with immediate access to information and connectivity,” he says. “However, it’s important to exercise moderation in their use.
“Practise keeping them away for a few hours each day so that you remain in control, rather than allowing them to control you.”
