Know that You’re Needed

Life is very precious, and we must learn to value it. When we don’t do that, we either turn to depression or get into aggression and violence. We have to prevent suicides from happening and protect those vulnerable to them. One takes this extreme step when they feel alone and defeated. We have to give people a larger context for life. Human values are still present on this planet, and there are a lot of good people here who support each other. No problem is insurmountable.

There’s nothing one can do after a loved one has already taken his/her life, but we can definitely prevent suicide by giving them the right wisdom, the right support at the right time. We need to show them the big picture. Let us help people to get to know themselves and find out who they really are. We are connected to the Universal Spirit. When we know this, we realise, we are much bigger than our physical body.

Let’s Talk Mental Health

Often, people do not speak openly about their experience of depression or other mental health challenges. Just as one would discuss physical ailments like diabetes or hypertension without hesitation, it is equally important to talk about mental health without any reluctance. We must encourage people to speak about their mental well-being.

You are not Alone

We need to assure everyone around us that they are not alone. Humanity and human values are abundant in our society, and many are ready to offer their support. Even if others do not speak about their problems, we can still be of help by being vigilant on this matter. When you sense someone might not be happy, don’t just pass them by. Stop and ask, “Is everything okay? Can I help you in any way?” Connecting with people and offering help is essential. By doing so, we can lighten the hearts and minds of many, to begin with.

Back in 2014, we initiated a Happiness Survey. Our volunteers went door to door, asking people one simple question: Are you happy? Many people shared that this was the first time someone had asked them whether or not they were truly happy or if they needed anything. So, this is something that the entire society should be ready for—supporting one another and being there for each other.

Why Suicide is a Mistake

People commit suicide to escape misery, but they do not realize it puts them in greater misery. It is like someone who is already shivering in the cold, further removing their jacket. Will the cold become any less? No!

Obsession, restlessness, and desires can create intense agony, and it is only through your body that you can dispel agony and get rid of misery. Instead, you destroy the very instrument by which you can get rid of agony.

Do you know why suicides really happen?

Now, how do you feel when someone compliments you? You feel a sense of expansion, and you feel happy. And when someone insults you, you have a shrinking feeling. This something which expands and contracts in you is worth knowing!

I am talking about our subtle body, which expands and shrinks. In the normal state, the subtle body is bigger than the physical body. When the subtle body keeps shrinking and becomes smaller than the physical body, you feel that you are unable to carry your body, and you just want to get out of it. So, what can you do to get out of this feeling? The answer lies only in increasing your prana level.

Ways to get the Prana Level up

Multiple things can enhance the prana. Firstly, the age-old practices of yoga and meditation have consistently been shown to be powerful tools. They not only revitalize our energy but also offer a deeper understanding of our inner selves. Music, too, can elevate the prana. The rhythmic patterns, melodies, and harmonies resonate with our mind and heart, inducing a sense of well-being. Spending time in the company of happy people or spending time with children can significantly uplift one’s spirit, too. When we as adults connect with children, it uplifts us, giving an instant boost to our energy levels.

Spiritual knowledge is like the manual for life. Just as we learn to use a car’s steering, clutch, and brake, we need to study and use this understanding of our life energy to retain a calm mind in the midst of chaos. This is what pranayama teaches us. When our energy isn’t steady, our feelings can be all over the place.

Spending just a few minutes understanding how our breath works can be life-transforming. Techniques like Sudarshan Kriya help balance our energy, which then helps steady the mind. When we meditate, it positively impacts every part of our lives. As our energy increases, we naturally begin to feel better, think creatively, and have better control over our feelings and thoughts.

Ask, “What can I do for you?”

Whenever you feel low or negative, see if you can go out and help others. Go out and ask someone, “What can I do for you?” and see the shift in your emotions. Getting involved in some type of seva or service is a powerful way to increase one’s life force and turn the negative feelings on their head.

Know that you’re needed

Remember that you are here for a unique purpose and cause that are far bigger than just to eat, sleep, or talk. You have all come here to do something very specific. You don’t need to be concerned about anything. Life is like a movie that has already been shot. What you experience in the present moment is only a replay.

When we serve and commit to a larger mission, it changes our life’s perspective. This eliminates small personal worries and broadens the canvas of our life, putting the focus on the bigger picture. Societies where service, sacrifice, and community participation is valued see fewer incidences of depression and suicides.

Invoke the valor in you

Come on, wake up! You have been afraid many times in the past. Life still goes on. Invoke the valour inside you. Remember, you faced many difficulties in the past when you thought this was the end of it. You overcame those challenges, and you are here, complete. Every storm that has come into your life has widened your horizon and brought you more depth. When things that you don’t like happen to you, they make you stronger somewhere. Every challenge or misery that you have experienced has made you stronger and more sensitive, and the pleasant experiences have given you a sense of expansion. And life is a blend of both pleasant and unpleasant situations. Take life in its totality. Prevention of suicide, much like any public health problem, requires a systematic approach, and imparting them with tools to manage stress and uplift their spirit is the way forward. Just as we teach children dental hygiene, it is equally essential to introduce mental hygiene from an early age.

(The author is a global humanitarian leader and spiritual master who founded The Art of Living in1981. As Gurudev turns 70 and The Art of Living steps into the 45th year of making life a celebration on this planet, month long celebrations are underway at The Art of Living International centre with eminent personalities from the sphere of politics, entertainment, arts, academia and faith arriving at the centre for thoughtful conversations, cultural showcases and launch of several service initiatives.)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

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