About the Organization

Art of Living: An overview

Operating in 155 countries, The Art of Living is a non-profit, educational and humanitarian organization founded in 1981 by the world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual teacher Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. All our programs are guided by Gurudev’s philosophy: “Unless we have a stress-free mind and a violence-free society, we cannot achieve world peace.”

The Art of Living community is diverse and attracts people from all walks of life. 

Programs

The Art of Living offers numerous, highly effective educational and self-development programs and tools that facilitate the elimination of stress. These tools also foster deep and profound inner peace, happiness, and well-being for all individuals. These programs, which include breathing techniques, meditation, yoga, and practical wisdom for daily living, have helped millions around the world to completely transform their lives.

Service initiatives

The Art of Living also works on service initiatives in collaboration with The International Association for Human Values (IAHV) and in special consultative status with the United Nations Social and Economic Council. It has successfully implemented numerous humanitarian projects including:

• river rejuvenation
• conflict resolution programs
• disaster relief
• sustainable rural development
• empowerment of women
• prisoner rehabilitation
• education for all
• environmental sustainability
   

Mission

It has been said of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar that not since Mahatma Gandhi has one human being united so many people of different races, traditions, economic and social status, and nationalities. This community, spanning 155 countries, has created a one world spiritual family. 

Gurudev’s message is simple: “Love and wisdom can prevail over hatred and violence.” Happily, this message is not just a slogan, but through The Art of Living has been and continues to be translated into action and results.