Many a time an individual hits rock bottom and is enveloped by total darkness.

[25/05, 17:05] Lakshmi Valluri: Many a time an individual hits rock bottom and is enveloped by total darkness. In here my passion of conducting Art of Living courses for addicts, writing on the subject and spreading the word as to how to overcome these problems through public talks, You Tube, Instagram and podcasts have found a space. As someone who was once ensnared in the throes of alcoholism and excessive smoking, I have firsthand experience of the struggle of this turmoil. This is when I had a brush with “infinity” and rediscovered my mojo through the grace of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, learned the powerful rhythmic and unique breathing technique of Sudarshan Kriya, ancient practices of Yoga and meditation which metamorphosed my life. From drunken abyss, I recovered to sobriety by upending the pyramid. My passion has been to speak and write about this vital aspect. The Role of Mindfulness and Spirituality Mindfulness is not merely a buzzword; it is a powerful tool which anchors individuals to the present, fostering an awareness which alleviates anxiety and fear. Through the regular practice of meditation, yoga and breath work I embraced the technique to quieten the endless chatter in the chambers of my mind and appreciated each moment as it is, unencumbered by the chains of the past or the fears of the future. I have passionately written and spoken on this crucial aspect of “Mind Matters”. An offshoot also has also been to enhance “Sattvik quality” within us by partaking vegetarian food. While I do agree not everyone is a vegetarian and dietary habits are formed from childhood and places where we stay (deserts, seaside’s or jungles). Positive effects of vegetarianism on the human mind and body is something I have passionately written in my column on Mind Matters and in some books. Though I must confess that I have a long way to traverse in this aspect of the journey. But I do propagate vegetarianism in my writings and while conducting the courses. A plant-based diet not only nourishes the body but also reflects a commitment to compassion—an integral tenet of the Art of Living philosophy. The Physical Dimensions: Diet, Fitness, and Yoga My journey also included a significant transformation in my physical health. The importance of diet and physical fitness cannot be overstated in recovery. Meanwhile I began hitting the gym regularly. Physical fitness became a vital cog of change in me, channelling my energy into strength and endurance rather than destructive habits. Exercise itself became a form of meditation in motion; which allowed me to connect with my body and appreciate its capabilities. The transformative power of yoga also played a significant role in my recovery and honour my body and breath. All this has spurred me to be passionate in talking about physical fitness in my writings, courses and Instagram, You Tube and podcast talks to encourage people to adopt these healthy practices Service: Bedrock of recovery I started volunteering at some rehabilitation centres wherever I was posted during my career in the Railways, sharing my story with those still ensnared by addiction. This provided me immense personal satisfaction and in turn bolstered my energy/ prana levels. And I am passionate about sharing all these real incidents in my writings and talks on various forums. The Joy of Spreading Happiness Ultimately, my passion for counselling alcoholics and drug addicts stems from a profound desire to help others rediscover their own potential for joy and fulfilment. Another passion is also to spread the word that individuals should take up a hobby apart from their work – be it writing, dancing, learning music, cooking, gardening or something of interest. This helps in developing one’s personality and declutters the mind which eschews antipathetic thoughts and this has caught the attention of my readers and listeners. Thus, a person lives in the present moment and does not postpone happiness. And I am passionate about spreading this truism. [25/05, 17:06] Lakshmi Valluri: Service, meditation, intentional morning, night, conducting /facilitating courses,; Describe the passion, not the journey or the theory.SPread your thoughts by writing articles. Preach what I practice, satwik life, meditation, yoga [25/05, 17:07] Lakshmi Valluri: focus on passionate activities ...no need to explain or also no theory, no journey [25/05, 17:08] Lakshmi Valluri: Visists to Ashram...yearning to meet/passionate about meeting Gurudev