Welcome to Art of Living Washington DC National Center!

As soon as you arrive, take a nice, deep breath—you’re in the right place! Kick off your shoes and head upstairs; you’re about to embark on an amazing journey.

Before we get started, let’s give your phone a little break too!

Silencing it is great, but if you’re up for the challenge, park it with your shoes. Trust us, you’ll be surprised at how refreshing it is to unplug for a while and truly focus on you.

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The day will start off with a quick and lively overview of the workshop by Bryan Ramos, the founder of Synergy22 and the producer of this event. Then, Catalina Lozano-Espinosa, a representative of Art of Living, will introduce our fantastic host, setting the stage for what’s to come!

About the Art of Living Foundation

The Art of Living Foundation is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering individual and community well-being through stress-management programs, meditation, and other holistic practices. Founded by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, the foundation operates in over 156 countries, touching millions of lives with its mission to create a stress-free, violence-free world.

The Washington, DC center of the Art of Living Foundation is a vibrant community hub, offering a range of programs designed to enhance mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall well-being. Through the practice of SKY Breath Meditation, yoga, and other mindfulness techniques, participants are empowered to lead healthier, happier lives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Art of Living Foundation for graciously hosting us! Their commitment to personal and collective transformation provides the perfect environment for this gathering, and we are honored to collaborate with them.

To start the day on a positive and invigorating note, Shirley Roseman will lead us through a series of warm-up exercises and gentle yoga. These activities are designed to help us loosen up, increase our flexibility, and get our energy flowing.

By the end of this session, you’ll feel more relaxed, centered, and ready to fully engage in the rest of the workshop.

Discover the transformative power of SKY Breath Meditation, a scientifically validated technique developed by the Art of Living.

SKY, which stands for Sudarshan Kriya Yoga, combines specific rhythmic breathing patterns that effortlessly quiet the mind, reduce stress, and increase energy. This practice, guided by trained instructors, helps to detoxify the body, calm the nervous system, and promote emotional resilience.

During this session you’ll experience deep relaxation, mental clarity, and a renewed sense of well-being through this powerful meditation technique.

POST WORKSHOP

This Intro to SKY Breath Meditation session is just the beginning…

It sets the stage for integrating SKY Breath Meditation into your daily routine, giving a powerful boost to all your other growth and healing practices.

Once you’ve completed this “Activate Your Inner Power” workshop, we enthusiastically recommend you consider signing up for the SKY Breath Meditation program. We’re confident you’re going to love it!

> Learn More Here

In this enlightening session with Jose Resello, Lead Makeup & Hair Artist at CNN NYC, we’ll learn about the powerful connection between external beauty and internal mental health.

As a graduate of SKY Breath Meditation and an advocate of various fitness modalities, Jose brings a unique holistic perspective to his work. In this session, he will discuss how our outward appearance can profoundly affect our inner state of well-being, drawing on his expertise in beauty, meditation, and fitness.

Highlights:

• Holistic Insights: Discover how integrating beauty practices with SKY Breath Meditation and fitness routines can enhance mental clarity and emotional balance.
• Practical Techniques: Learn actionable tips for using makeup and hair styling to boost mood and self-esteem while supporting overall health.
• Comprehensive Approach: Explore how a combination of external grooming, mindful breathing, and physical fitness can create a synergistic effect on personal energy management.
• Enhanced Self-Care: Develop personalized strategies that incorporate beauty, meditation, and fitness to foster a balanced and empowered self.

Jose’s session promises a comprehensive approach to well-being, offering valuable tools to harmonize your inner and outer self for optimal mental and emotional health.

Shailey Sharma’s presentation will highlight the inspiration behind Shankara Natural, rooted in the teachings of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and the innovative fusion of Ayurvedic wisdom with modern skincare science.

She will discuss how Shankara’s products not only enhance physical beauty but also work on mental and emotional well-being by combining ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology.

Her talk will also emphasize the brand’s commitment to sustainability and humanitarian efforts, with 100% of net profits donated to causes like women’s empowerment and veteran support.

Additionally, she will explore Shankara’s unique approach to skincare, promoting nutrition, hydration, and protection through natural ingredients and transformative products.

In this lively session, Chef Subheesh will share practical insights into the benefits of Ayurvedic nutrition and how it relates to personal energy management. He will also share how he personally leads in the high-demand food service industry, applying these Ayurvedic principles to stay energized and balanced.

By incorporating Ayurvedic principles into your daily routine, you can manage your energy more effectively, reduce stress, and live a more balanced, energized life. It’s a natural, holistic way to keep your body and mind in sync, so you can thrive every day.

Unlocking Energy with Ayurvedic Nutrition

Ayurvedic nutrition is all about balancing your body, mind, and spirit through the foods you eat. It’s a personalized approach that tailors your diet to your unique body type or “dosha” (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), helping you stay in harmony and feel your best.

Here’s how it benefits you: 

1. Personalized Eating: Ayurveda creates a diet plan just for you, based on your body’s needs, making sure you get the nutrients you need in a way that’s easy for your body to absorb.
2. Better Digestion, Better Energy: By focusing on foods that are easy to digest and eating at the right times, you can keep your digestive system strong, which means more consistent energy throughout the day.
3. Stronger Immunity: Eating fresh, seasonal foods that suit your body type helps boost your immune system, keeping you healthier and more energized.
4. Clear Mind, Calm Spirit: The right foods can also nourish your mind, helping you stay calm, focused, and emotionally balanced.
5. Steady Energy Levels: Ayurveda teaches you to eat in sync with your body’s natural rhythms, so you can avoid those energy crashes and feel more vibrant all day long.

Get ready to savor a mouthwatering, wholesome meal crafted with love by the amazing Chef Subheesh!

Lunch is included with the workshop, and you can choose to enjoy it in the food hall or take it outside to the nearby park if the weather’s nice.

During lunch, we’ll be taking a peaceful ‘step into silence’—we encourage you to fully dive in and embrace the experience!

Eating slowly and in silence offers several significant benefits for both physical and mental well-being. By taking time to eat slowly, you enhance digestion, as the body can better break down and absorb nutrients. This practice also helps you recognize feelings of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating, which can lead to weight management and overall health improvement.

Eating in silence fosters mindfulness, allowing you to be more present and aware of the tastes, textures, and smells of your food. This mindful approach to eating can reduce stress, create a more profound sense of enjoyment, and deepen the connection between mind and body. By avoiding distractions, such as screens or conversations, you also allow your nervous system to shift into a state of rest and digest, which conserves energy and promotes relaxation.

Overall, eating slowly and in silence can increase your personal energy by enhancing digestion, reducing stress, and fostering mindfulness. This practice supports a balanced and energized state, helping you feel more in tune with your body’s needs and more centered throughout your day.

Settle into a serene and rejuvenating sound bath, beautifully performed by Franck Raharinosy and Margot Langman, who have traveled from NYC to share this special day with us.

As you immerse yourself in the ethereal melodies of gongs, singing bowls, chimes, and other unique instruments, you’ll feel your awareness gently anchored in the present moment, wrapped in a soothing symphony of overtone-rich sounds.

Whether you choose to lie down or sit comfortably, let the vibrations wash over you, melting away stress and tension, and inviting deep relaxation and profound peace. This experience revitalizes you on every level—physical, mental, and emotional.

This is more than just relaxation; it’s a journey to reconnect with your inner peace, vitality, and energy balance.

In this special session, we’re thrilled to present a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts alike. Amanda Ramos, a dynamic and aspiring filmmaker, will host a fascinating Q&A session with the highly respected producer and director, Leslie Shampaine, and the celebrated dancer, Manish Chauhan.

Leslie has made a significant impact in the world of documentary filmmaking, particularly with her remarkable film Call Me Dancer, which tells the inspiring story of Manish Chauhan’s journey. She has a unique gift for capturing the essence of human resilience and artistry, creating films that resonate deeply with audiences everywhere.

In this session, Amanda will chat with Leslie and Manish about their creative process, the challenges and triumphs in their careers, and how they channel their energy and vision to craft such powerful stories. This enriching conversation will dive into the intersection of personal energy, creativity, and the art of filmmaking. We’re sure you’ll love it!

Call Me Dancer is a documentary by Leslie Shampaine that tells the inspiring story of Manish Chauhan, a young street dancer from Mumbai, India, who overcomes numerous challenges to pursue his dream of becoming a professional ballet dancer. Growing up in a lower-middle-class neighborhood, Manish faces societal and familial expectations to follow a more conventional path. However, his passion for dance drives him to defy the odds.

The film captures Manish’s journey as he trains under the guidance of Israeli-American ballet teacher Yehuda Maor, who recognizes his raw talent and potential. Despite lacking formal ballet training and facing financial hardships, Manish’s determination and resilience shine through as he navigates the demanding world of ballet.

The documentary highlights the cultural clash between Manish’s background and the elite world of ballet, showcasing the sacrifices he makes to achieve his goals. It also explores themes of identity, self-expression, and the power of art to transcend boundaries. Through intimate interviews and captivating dance sequences, Call Me Dancer offers a compelling portrait of a young artist’s pursuit of his passion against all odds.

As we gather to conclude this transformative day, we’ll engage in a powerful ‘high vibration’ group meditation. After experiencing the dynamic shifts of personal energy throughout the workshop, this guided meditation, led by Shalini Jerath, will help you harmonize and integrate the energy dimensions we’ve explored together.

1. Cultivating a Clear Mind: During this meditation, we’ll use the techniques from the Art of Living Foundation to quiet our minds. As you focus on your breath, notice how your thoughts begin to settle, bringing you to a state of mental clarity and calmness.

2. Embracing Emotional Balance: With the guidance of the Art of Living’s practices, allow yourself to release any stress or tension. As you breathe deeply, feel the emotional balance that meditation brings, helping you find peace in the present moment.

3. Nourishing Physical Well-being: Let your body relax as you follow the breathing patterns we’ve learned, such as the SKY Breath Meditation. These techniques from the Art of Living Foundation promote deep physical relaxation and healing, leaving your body feeling rejuvenated.

4. Energizing Your Spirit: As we move through this meditation, focus on the breath to revitalize your energy. The practices taught by the Art of Living are designed to cleanse and recharge your system, filling you with renewed vitality.

5. Deepening Self-Awareness: Use this time to connect deeply with your inner self, a key aspect of the Art of Living’s teachings. Observe your thoughts and emotions with a sense of gentle awareness, allowing this meditation to deepen your understanding of yourself.

6. Enhancing Relationships: As we conclude this meditation, bring to mind the people in your life. Through the compassion and understanding cultivated in this practice, strengthened by the Art of Living’s teachings, feel your relationships deepen and flourish.

This final meditation is a moment to fully embrace the benefits we’ve explored together. As you immerse yourself in this practice, grounded in the wisdom of the Art of Living, let the peace, clarity, and connection you feel become a part of your daily life. Remember, you can always return to this place of calm and centeredness whenever you need it, guided by the practices you’ve learned.

Grace Ramos, an exquisite ballerina, will perform alongside Abada-Capoeira DC’s Femi Omo, Kalunga, Colmiea, Yara, and Haise, delivering an electrifying mashup of diverse dance forms that blends the elegance of ballet with the rhythmic intensity of capoeira. The session will also feature a captivating capoeira demonstration with live music, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or simply looking to have fun, this session will have you moving like a star, leaving you energized, empowered, and ready to show off your moves. Get ready to groove, flow, and manage your energy like never before!

Why Dance?

Dancing is a powerful way to optimize personal energy by engaging both the body and mind in a dynamic and expressive form of movement. When you dance, your body releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers that help reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. This physical activity also boosts circulation and oxygen flow throughout the body, leading to increased energy levels and improved stamina.

Moreover, dancing helps regulate the body’s natural rhythms, such as breathing and heart rate, promoting a sense of balance and harmony within. The rhythmic movements and coordination involved in dancing can also enhance mental clarity and focus, helping you stay energized and alert throughout the day.

On a deeper level, dancing allows for emotional expression and release, which can clear mental and emotional blockages, leading to a more vibrant and positive energy state. Whether you’re dancing alone or in a group, the connection to music and movement can be incredibly uplifting, fostering a sense of joy, connection, and vitality that permeates all areas of life.

Overall, dancing is not just a physical activity but a holistic practice that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit, optimizing your personal energy and helping you feel more alive and engaged in the present moment.

You’ve had an epic day tapping into your inner power—now it’s time to kick back, unwind, and vibe with your new crew!

SPIN Washington DC is a vibrant and energetic social club that combines the love of ping pong with a unique nightlife experience. Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, SPIN offers an exciting atmosphere where guests can enjoy friendly ping pong matches, craft cocktails, and delicious bites in a trendy, art-filled environment. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, SPIN provides the perfect setting for both casual and competitive play. With a lively mix of music, events, and a welcoming community, SPIN Washington DC is the go-to destination for those looking to connect, unwind, and have fun in a one-of-a-kind venue.

Manish Chauhan is a celebrated Indian dancer whose journey from the streets of Mumbai to the world stage has inspired many. Despite growing up in a modest family and facing significant challenges, his passion for dance drove him to teach himself various styles, including Bollywood, hip-hop, and contemporary. His talent caught the attention of dance director Yehuda Maor, who offered him a scholarship to train in ballet, a style far removed from his previous experiences.

Under Yehuda’s mentorship, Manish adapted to the discipline of ballet and gained international recognition, performing in prestigious venues around the world. His remarkable story was highlighted in the 2020 film Yeh Ballet and the documentary Call Me Dancer, which both showcase his journey and the transformative power of art.

Today, Manish continues to dance and inspire others, advocating for opportunities for underprivileged youth and encouraging them to pursue their passions. His journey is a powerful testament to resilience, hard work, and the impact of following one’s dreams.

Harsha Dhingra holds a Master of Science in Physical Therapy with a clinical specialization in geriatrics. With over 10 years of experience in breathwork and meditation, she is a trained practitioner through the Art of Living Foundation and is deeply passionate about sharing these transformative practices. Harsha has conducted workshops for diverse groups, including college students, healthcare professionals, and the general public, with sessions hosted at prestigious institutions such as New York University, Columbia University, and the University of Maryland.

Currently, Harsha works with the Johns Hopkins Health System in Maryland and Washington, D.C. She also leads wellness workshops for seniors in the community, dedicated to improving lives through the integration of breathwork, meditation, and specialized physical therapy.

Shalini is a Breath & Meditation Expert with over 10 years of experience practicing and teaching evidence-based tools for stress management, personal development, and personal energy management.

Her students come from diverse backgrounds, including lawyers, IT professionals, educators, doctors, college students, and homemakers. A graduate of a top engineering school, she also manages a multi-million dollar IT program. Shalini has seen the transformative benefits of breathwork and meditation, particularly in optimizing her personal energy, both professionally and in her personal relationships with her two adult daughters.

She is deeply committed to helping others manage their energy and empower them to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. In addition, Shalini is a 200-hour certified Sri Sri Yoga Instructor and serves as the Government and Community Engagement Liaison with local governments in Northern Virginia.

Margot Langman is a dedicated sound healing practitioner and a visual artist from New York City. She is dedicated to crafting healing experiences.

Margot’s focus is on fostering inner peace and facilitating healing for all beings. Her work resonates deeply with individuals seeking harmony and balance, inspiring them to embark on their own paths of self-discovery and healing.

Born in Ibagué, Colombia, Catalina Lozano-Espinosa is a skilled professional in facility management, labor conflict resolution, and personal energy management. As the manager of the Art of Living facility in Washington, DC, she excels in mediation, negotiation, and training, particularly within multicultural environments.

Catalina’s approach to conflict resolution is deeply informed by her expertise in personal energy management. She believes in the power of balanced energy to navigate challenging situations and connect with diverse populations. Her ability to foster understanding and cooperation is central to her work, where she helps individuals manage their energy for personal growth and community well-being.

Catalina is dedicated to promoting peace and cooperation, guiding others to harness their energy in ways that contribute to their personal growth and the well-being of their communities.

Chef Subheesh Manikoth hails from Kerala, India, where his early years were spent immersed in the rich flavors of traditional South Indian cuisine.

This early culinary influence ignited his passion for cooking, prompting him to pursue professional training at the Institute of Hotel Management, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts. Chef Subheesh’s culinary journey didn’t stop there; his quest for culinary excellence took him across the globe. He has honed his skills in diverse culinary environments, from India and the Middle East to Europe and America, mastering a range of cuisines including Indian, French, Italian, and American.

Chef Subheesh is not just passionate about cooking; he lives and breathes it. Even on his days off, he is often found in the kitchen, cooking for friends and family. His enthusiasm extends beyond the personal to the professional realm, where he has led several kitchens as a head chef. Chef Subheesh’s culinary philosophy centers on the joy of cooking and the art of showcasing the rich tapestry of South and North Indian dishes, bringing a piece of his heritage to the global table.

Meet Femi Omo, a dynamic artist who channels the power of personal energy management into his dual passions for capoeira and visual artistry.

Hailing from Prince George’s County, Femi is not just a creator—he’s a storyteller who uses the vibrant synergy of paint and movement to craft narratives that resonate deeply with the soul.

Through his art, Femi pours his energy into the people, places, and spaces that have shaped him, creating a ripple effect of positivity and connection.

Whether he’s spinning on the capoeira floor or painting on a canvas, Femi’s work is a celebration of community, resilience, and the art of harmonizing energy with purpose.

Franck Raharinosy is founder of Soul Through Sound and co-founder of the ping-pong social clubs, SPIN. His personal experience with sound showed him the power of slowing down, being more present and feeling grounded.

The transformation that occurred made him want to study and practice this healing modality and share it as a gift with his friends, family, work team and people in need. He has been performing sound baths since early 2016 in private, family, group and corporate settings.

Franck is continuously working with various companies and organizations including Tibet House US, Equinox, Habitas, and The National Arts Club. His natural compassionate, caring and warm energy makes him an amazing space holder and a beautiful person to be around.

Grace Ramos discovered her love for ballet at the age of 6 when she began taking lessons at Berrend Dance Centre in Maryland. Her dedication to the art form led her to start competing internationally by the age of 10. Grace was honored to receive the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) Hope Award in 2023, a recognition she cherishes from her experience in Toronto, Canada.

Grace’s journey in ballet has been shaped by the invaluable opportunities she’s earned, including merit scholarships and training with some of the most prestigious institutions in the ballet world, such as The American Ballet Theatre in New York City and The Rock School of Dance in Philadelphia. These experiences have not only refined her skills but have also strengthened her unwavering dedication to the art of ballet.

Grace is passionate about the connection between dance and personal energy management. She believes that ballet is a meaningful way to cultivate physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As she continues her journey, Grace aspires to share her love for ballet with audiences around the world, using her creativity and passion to contribute positively to the art form. She views dance as a holistic practice that brings together body, mind, and spirit, helping individuals find balance and vitality through movement.

In addition to her ballet training, Grace serves as an ambassador for Só Dança USA and an influencer for both Dance Supplies, Etc and Sattaché. Through these roles, she connects with the dance community, sharing her passion for ballet and promoting the importance of quality dancewear and supplies. Her involvement with these brands further amplifies her commitment to supporting and inspiring fellow dancers.

Bryan Ramos kicked off his career in 2001 as an architect, focusing on hospitality and innovation centers. Over the years, he expanded into into technology, leadership development, digital marketing, and eventually founded Retail22 CRE Advisors in 2020, a commercial real estate brokerage. No matter where his career has taken him, Bryan has always been driven by creativity, innovation, and a mission to “raise the vibe” of human consciousness.

But Bryan’s passions go beyond the office. As a lifelong B-Boy, DJ, and snowboarder, he knows firsthand the power of sound, movement, and energy. He’s deeply committed to personal energy management, believing that breath, nutrition, sound, creativity, and movement are key to living your best life.

In 2024, Bryan brought all these elements together to create Synergy22, an initiative that helps people optimize their energy and collectively elevate the world’s vibe. He’s faced his own share of personal challenges and is passionate about helping others grow and live consciously.

With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Architecture from Catholic University of America, and an Executive Master’s in Leadership from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, Bryan’s education has been fueled by pure curiosity. When asked why he pursued so much learning, he simply says, “I never studied a day in my life—I was just curious to learn cool stuff that I vibed with.”

Amanda Ramos is an aspiring filmmaker and student with a growing passion for storytelling and visual arts. She has refined her filmmaking skills through an intensive summer course at the prestigious New York Film Academy in NYC, where she learned to channel her creative energy into visual storytelling. Beyond filmmaking, Amanda is highly active in sports such as lacrosse, field hockey, basketball, and tennis. Her love for snowboarding reflects her adventurous nature and dynamic approach to life.

Amanda is not only an all-around creative but also an advocate for personal energy management. She understands the importance of balancing mental, physical, and creative energy to optimize performance in both her filmmaking and her athletic pursuits. Whether she’s behind the camera or engaging in sports, Amanda strives to manage her energy in a way that enhances her creativity, focus, and resilience.

With a passion for self-growth and a commitment to excellence in every facet of life, Amanda is a young leader who aims to inspire others through both her creative work and her dedication to personal energy management.

Jose Rosello is a visionary Makeup & Hair Artist working with a global brand, known for his ability to transform creative energy into stunning artistry. His journey in the beauty industry is deeply intertwined with his passion for self-discovery and expanding his humanity. Driven by a desire to live wholeheartedly, Jose trusts in the universe to guide him, placing people on his path who contribute to his growth, just as he seeks to uplift and inspire others.

Operating in the high-demand environment of real-time news television, Jose has cultivated a healthy lifestyle that supports his ability to perform under pressure. His commitment to personal wellness, including mindfulness practices and a balanced routine, allows him to remain calm, focused, and resilient amidst the fast-paced demands of live broadcasting. This holistic approach not only enhances his creativity but also ensures that he consistently delivers top-tier results for his clients.

Early in his career, a manager noticed a talent in Jose that he had not yet recognized in himself, describing his style as nonchalant yet impactful. This moment of insight became a turning point, revealing to Jose that he was channeling a unique creative energy into his work—an energy that allowed him to balance the demands of artistry, time management, and client retention effortlessly.

Through every brushstroke and every style, Jose embraces his individuality, confident in the knowledge that “can’t no one do what I can.” His work is not just about enhancing outer beauty; it’s about connecting with the essence of each person, bringing forth their inner light to shine brightly in the world.

Since discovering the transformative power of yoga in 2009, Shirley Roseman has been on a journey of deep spiritual exploration and personal growth.

As a Jivamukti 300-hour trained instructor, Shirley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her teaching, inspiring others to connect with their true selves through the practice of yoga. A devoted mother of two beautiful children, she balances her spiritual path with the joys of motherhood, infusing her life with love and mindfulness.

In addition to her work in yoga, Shirley is a conscious capital investor, aligning her financial decisions with her spiritual values to create positive change in the world.

As an author, she shares her insights and experiences, helping others navigate their own paths to spiritual and personal well-being. Shirley’s holistic approach to life and business makes her a unique and inspiring presence in the world of personal energy management.