On Dec. 21, Lexington residents celebrated World Meditation Day, joining a live-guided meditation shared by participants across 133 U.S. cities and 12 million participants across the world! Spiritual leader, Art of Living founder, and humanitarian Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar guided the meditation session from New York. The event was held at the Community Hall of the Lexington Police Department. 

The timing of the session felt especially relevant. A recent Gallup survey found only 29% of U.S. adults rate their mental health as “excellent.” The American Psychiatric Association poll reported that 43% of adults felt more anxious than prior years. Those numbers explain why accessible, community-based wellness programs resonate with people.

The United Nations designated Dec. 21 as World Meditation Day to encourage inner peace and well-being. Leading up to this event, Gurudev led World Meditation Day sessions at the UN in New York and Geneva, reinforcing the global focus on calm, clarity, and social harmony.

About 50 residents from Lexington and nearby towns attended the event on Dec 21st. Dana Bickleman, Lexington’s Director of Human Services, spoke about the value of creating spaces where residents can feel connected and supported, especially during stressful seasons. She spoke about how important it is to pause.

Local Art of Living coordinators Uma Viswanath and Harini Sundaram welcomed participants and opened with light stretching and breathing exercises to help everyone settle. The room felt warm and unhurried. Conversations softened, phones disappeared, and the group eased into quiet.

At 10:00 a.m., the livestream began from New York City. Gurudev addressed a room full of meditators and called meditation “a necessity, not a luxury.” He then guided participants into a deep meditation that lasted about 30 minutes (but felt like only 5mins!). In Lexington, the atmosphere was tranquil and focused, and a few moments of silence lingered even after the session ended.

Reactions

Reactions after the session were upbeat: “rejuvenated,” “energized,” “relaxed,” “calm.” 

Several first-time meditators who were unsure if they can meditate, shared their enthusiasm stating, “motivated to start meditation,” and “would like my family to meditate.”

“SKY meditation became an inseparable part of my daily routine and a path to calmness.” said Nagasree Chakka from Lexington. 

“Today’s experience inspired me to try a more sustainable path to meditation.” said Louis Medoff from Peabody. 

Organizers said follow-up meditation programs are planned locally in 2026. For details, contact Uma at uma.viswanath@artofliving.org

Event Photos

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