Think of the Art of Living as a global “gym for the mind,” where breath and simple practices take center stage rather than creeds or dogma. Founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, it’s registered as a non-governmental, humanitarian organization. Millions—across 155 countries—have tapped into its signature Sudarshan Kriya® and other breathing techniques to ease stress, sharpen focus, and boost resilience.

No altar or compulsory scripture stands at the heart of its programs. Instead, participants from all walks of life—whether Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Hindu or secular—are free to bring their own beliefs along for the ride. Those breathing sessions and meditation circles function like an “open-door policy,” welcoming anyone seeking calm and clarity.

Headlines lately have highlighted Art of Living’s relief efforts—volunteer teams in Türkiye after the earthquakes, community kitchens during India’s 2024 heatwaves, and online mindfulness sessions offered pro bono for frontline workers coping with burnout. In May 2025, a live virtual workshop for World Mental Health Day drew tens of thousands looking to strengthen emotional well-being.

While rituals and chants borrowed from various traditions pop up in celebrations, there’s no compulsory ritual calendar. Festivals honoring the spring equinox or Diwali lights coexist alongside nature retreats and stress-management seminars for corporate groups. All teachings circle back to one simple truth: breath is universal.

Rather than mapping out a new belief system, the Art of Living hands over tools—breathing exercises, meditation, yoga poses—that anyone can weave into their own spiritual or secular journey. No proselytizing, no membership fees for core programs, and certainly no requirement to pledge loyalty to any religious doctrine. It’s essentially a breath-centered toolbox, designed to uplift without laying down religious law.