Whether it is terror attacks on innocent civilians or prolonged conflicts between nations, The Art of Living, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has promptly sprung into action to aid the victims across the globe, irrespective of their religion or race.
Volunteering in a war zone poses significant dangers and challenges for those dedicated individuals who choose to serve in such environments. The perils range from the constant threat of violence and exposure to armed conflict to the risk of injury or even loss of life. The Art of Living volunteers operating in war zones often contend with unstable and unpredictable conditions, including damaged infrastructure, limited access to essential resources, and the emotional toll of witnessing human suffering on a large scale. Despite these formidable challenges, these courageous volunteers embody a spirit of selflessness and resilience as they strive to bring aid, comfort, and support to those affected by conflict.
Having The Art of Living volunteers dispersed globally enables us to establish immediate connections with affected communities, ensuring that aid is tailored to specific needs and delivered promptly.
This article explores how The Art of Living volunteers have been at the forefront of providing trauma relief and support to victims of some of the conflicts around the world. Despite the diverse nature of these incidents spanning a wide geography, the organization’s commitment to healing and empowering the victims remained unwavering.
Sowing Seeds of Peace in Israel and Palestine
The longstanding conflict between Israel and Palestine took a severe mental and emotional toll on the region’s people. Many people developed post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and sleeping problems. Following Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s visit in 2003, The Art of Living volunteers actively worked in the affected areas, conducting workshops and trauma care programs, despite the imminent danger to their lives that is often inherent in operating within a war zone. Many locals, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, found solace and relief through these workshops. The Art of Living created special programs tailored for youth, children, and prisoners which further contributed to the organization’s mission of sowing seeds of peace in a conflict-ridden landscape. Some of the areas that The Art of Living worked in included Gaza, West Bank area, Jerusalem, Tulkarem, Haifa, and Sderot.
Sharing the Pain of Terror Attack Victims in Madrid
The coordinated bombings on Madrid’s commuter train system on March 11, 2004, left 193 dead and over 2000 wounded, causing profound trauma, and waves of anxiety and depression among people. The Art of Living intervened with trauma relief workshops, introducing stress-elimination techniques to thousands directly and indirectly impacted by the terror attack. With the workshops becoming a transformative space, participants found solace in the opportunity to share their pain, and where many participants gained control over their nightmares, which were a common symptom among many who witnessed this tragedy. As one of the participants who underwent The Art of Living’s trauma-relief workshop shared, “It helped me to share my pain with others. I felt very comfortable during the course and could control my nightmares” These workshops marked a significant step towards victims’ emotional recovery.
Helping War Refugees in Lebanon and Israel
The 2006 conflict between Lebanon and Israel prompted The Art of Living to extend its support to both sides. Specialized trauma relief initiatives were organized for refugees from the Shia and Druze communities in Lebanon. The Art of Living began its activities in a school that had been converted into a refugee shelter in the village of Baysour, offering relief materials as well as trauma support. A total of 250 women and children participated in trauma relief workshops. Simultaneously, trauma relief courses were conducted for residents in northern Israel. Recognizing the urgent needs, The Art of Living provided immediate supplies to the inhabitants of Haifa, many of whom sought refuge in underground bomb shelters for an extended period.
Suburban Railway Bomb Blasts, Mumbai, India
On July 11, 2006, Mumbai, India’s financial capital, was hit by a devastating series of bomb blasts on its suburban railway by terrorists, leaving 209 dead and over 700 injured. The Art of Living responded promptly, conducting trauma relief workshops that benefited hundreds of survivors, witnesses, and residents. These workshops became a vital platform for hundreds to navigate the emotional aftermath, offering practical tools for coping and instilling a sense of resilience in the face of adversity.
During times of conflict and terror attacks, the mental and emotional toll on victims can be devastating. In the aftermath of such tragedies, the Art of Living has not only provided immediate material relief but also laid the foundations for long-term rehabilitation and empowerment by teaching practical methods to overcome personal suffering via its various specially created programs. These humanitarian efforts show how compassion and service can help victims find peace of mind even in the most adverse situations.
