Chitkara University organises 21-day Meditation Program in collaboration with The Art of Living
Chitkara University organised a 21-day Meditation Program in collaboration with The Art of Living. The program was free of cost for the Chitkara fraternity and their families. It commenced on April 27th, 2021 and concluded on May 17th, 2021. The program was carried out under the expert guidance of Shri Shri Ravi Shankar Ji. In the first session, he talked about the importance of self-faith and how relying on self during the hour of need can be a great source of inspiration to other people.
In the following sessions, he talked about the prevention of COVID 19 and some amazing breathing techniques. He also mentioned how self-faith is vital during times like these and can be a great source of inspiration for other people. Mr. Varun Upadhayay, an apprentice of The Art of Living conducted some fun yet relaxing exercises during the programs. The exercises also engaged tense muscle movements and rapid cardio. As the days passed, the sessions discussed how meditation might help us to be free of anxiety, loneliness, and fear. It also taught us that meditation is not an effortful workout, but rather a way to relax our heart, mind, and body.
Mr. Upadhayay also taught everyone Bhastrika Pranayam,’ a breathing technique that engages our upper torso and oesophagus in flexing and circulating airflow. The techniques and regular instruction during warm-up sessions were touching and ardent. All the exercises taught during the program aimed at helping the participants in achieving mindfulness and a state of stability. The participants also practised ‘Padmasana’, open palm meditation etc. Every breath, inhale-exhale was coordinated with the divine chants of OM.
The 21-day program also included a guided meditation program under the guidance of Shri Shri Ravi Shankar Ji, which was held on May 13th, 2021. The live session taught the hardest asana of letting go and controlling what’s on the inside. The live meditation session brought everyone’s attention to the importance of meditation in the day to day lives. The last few sessions focused on the temples, as they not only awaken the five senses but can also help in regulating the blood flow in the brain.
May 17th, 2021 marked the end of the 21- Day Meditation Program. The program witnessed enthusiastic participation of Chitkara University. Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Madhu Chitkara also actively participated in the program. Nobody has been left unscathed by the shackles of the pandemic and meditation not only helps to escape the stress but, also improves the respiratory system. The program was extremely helpful in inculcating the practice of meditation in the daily routines of the participants.
