Arka Dhyana Community News

Arka Foundation, Mysore, India

Three day seminar was led by Mrs Pratima Ramesh Soma

The following is a summary of the program that was conducted at various local schools in and around Mysore

 

 DAY ONE: 9 January 2008, Government Middle School at Shettynayankana Halli

Sixty students were taught basic English, Hygiene and Arka Dhyana – Touch and Sound Intuitive dhyana (meditation).  The aim was to teach students of the concepts of the book - ’Light of Learning’, on life skills that complements the educational curriculum of intellectual development. Here the emphasis is also placed upon intuitive learning that would provide them with a sense of their self esteem.

Left: Mrs Soma—visiting guest from New Zealand

Right: Mrs Smitha Vinod

Lower Right: Students at a local school

“Villagers in and around Mysore are now becoming aware of the Arka Foundation and its activities.  It is a unique opportunity for those members living outside India to come share their knowledge from other countries with the locals in India. It maybe a surprisingly wonderful gift to learn that they have a lot more to offer than they initially realised.  At the same time the children of India excitedly receive exposure to individuals from a variety of countries, with different outlooks and renewed understanding in their own lives, which is refreshing for them. We would like to warmly welcome other members around the world to come and see first hand and become a part of the work that is being carried out through the Arka Foundation in India.” Comment noted by Ms Smitha Vinod (co-ordinator and administrator of Arka Foundation, India)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excerpt from the book on -  Negative Peer pressure

 

This is a common, unpleasant and unnecessary psychological pressure built up by group formation, especially among teenagers. It originates from a single, unknown person and then shifts contagiously from person to person. It is like a hurricane which builds up gradually and strikes an unpredicted area. Generally, if one does not maintain mental stability and individuality during that period, one becomes a victim of such pressure.

 

The first person who picks up a habit passes it on to others, either by ridicule or by force. People acquire these habits because of loneliness or lack of strength or support. It could also be a self-generated psychological pressure created out of watching and observing someone who is unusual in behaviour, attire or attitude. There is also an erroneous belief that one would be respected by joining such groups and imitating their behaviour.

 

In the beginning, one has to maintain one's individuality by silently exercising resistance. Then, eventually, the pressure will subside.

Cover of ‘Light of Learning’ Book

It was first published in 1994, a second version is in the process of being completed.

 

Learning is an endless process

Whoever seeks knowledge is a student.

The end of academic education is the

beginning of real and practical learning

through life experiences.