The first of its kind, this internationally acclaimed programme is progressive, practical and results oriented, providing innovative and effective solutions to break cycles of violence and escalating crime rates. Over 100,000 people in prisons all over the world, from India to Russia, the US and South Africa, have benefited from the Prison SMART program.
Prison SMART stands for Prison Stress Management and Rehabilitation Training. It is based on Art of Living's unique stress management program and is customized to the needs of the prison inmates and to the individuals and institutions that work to end the cycle of violence.
The program helps prisoners in rehabilitation, and to reduce violence and drug dependencies. Prison SMART teaches life skills that enable individuals to accept responsibility for their past actions and to handle future conflict and stressful situations successfully. Innovative breathing techniques are a cornerstone of the program. This releases the accumulated effects of stress from the nervous system and help participants manage negative emotions in a safe and non-violent manner.
Reported benefits include:
* measurable and sustained reductions in violence, anger, rebelliousness, depression, fear and feelings of isolation
* reduction in recidivism (i.e. the continued return of former inmates to prison)
* improved sleeping patterns
* ability to accept responsibility for past actions and
* ability to handle conflict and stressful situations non-violently
* improved confidence and self-control
* measurable and sustained reductions in smoking and alcohol abuse
By gaining the ability to handle stressful situations in a more calm and clear manner, participants finally gain control over their actions to make positive changes in their behaviour and in their lives.