From Despair to Bliss: My Art of Living Journey

In 2015, my life was in shambles. I had recently gone through a painful divorce, stayed in rehabilitation centers multiple times, and was battling a psychiatric diagnosis of Schizophrenia. I felt like I was teetering on the edge of despair, desperately seeking a ray of hope.

It was in this tumultuous period that fate led me to the Art of Living community. Staying in my brother’s house, I reached out to a Homeopathy doctor for help with gynecological issues. Little did I know that this visit would set the stage for a profound transformation.

One fateful day, while reading the news, I came across a story about Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar. Something within me clicked, and I felt an inexplicable connection. It was a calling that I couldn’t ignore.

Driven by this newfound yearning, I decided to enroll in an Art of Living Happiness program. Previously, I had been contacted by the Vyakti Vikas Kendra to register, but back then, my understanding was feeble, and I couldn’t grasp the significance of the opportunity.

With my registration complete, I embarked on a path of happiness and self-discovery. The Art of Living introduced me to a life I had never imagined—filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment. My journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and the transformation in my life has been astounding.

Over the years, I have eagerly participated in numerous Art of Living courses, including 15 Advanced Meditation Programs (AMP), Sahaj Samadhi Meditation, DSN, Vignan Bhairav, and the Blessings Program. My most recent endeavor was the intensive Art of Meditation Course (AMC). The range of experiences I’ve gained through these courses has been transformative.

Through my association with the Art of Living, I have found a sense of belonging and purpose. Engaging in Sadhana (spiritual practices), Satsang (spiritual gatherings), Seva (selfless service), and the pursuit of knowledge and blissful celebration has allowed me not only to socialize but also to understand the higher purpose of life.

My heart overflows with gratitude that words alone cannot express. I am profoundly thankful to all the divine forces that led me to this path and to the incredible members of the Art of Living family who have supported and uplifted me.

Jai Gurudev 🙏

Madhuri Kotra