Mental health issues have become increasingly evident among youth, working professionals and the elderly. Poor mental health can impair decision-making and make it difficult to maintain healthy habits such as proper diet, exercise and sleep. It can also lead to physical changes like inflammation, hormonal imbalances and a weakened immune system.

To raise awareness of its consequences and offer spiritual solutions, PEACE Program, the Corporate Workshop Wing of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS), in association with AMON (Australian Multicultural Organisations Network), organized a special seminar on mental health titled “O Mind! Smile Plzzz…!” at the Hallam Senior Citizens Centre, Victoria, Australia.

The seminar was attended by over 220 participants, including several dignitaries namely, Gary Maas (MP, Narre Warren South), Stefan Koomen (Mayor, Casey Council), Lynette Pereira (Councillor, Casey Council), Manoj Kumar (Chairman, AMON), Dr. Raju Adhikari (President, AMON), Vinod Kumar Dahiya (Former Olympic Athlete & Director of Melbourne Wrestling Academy), Dr. Pragya Kant & Dr. Surya Kant (Accomplished Agriculture Scientists).

The two-hour seminar featured sessions led by saffron clad Sadhvi disciples of Indian Spiritual Leader, Divya Guru Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, the Founder and Head of DJJS. They shared views on mental health from spiritual, mental, and physical perspectives.

Sadhvi Tapeshwari Bharti ji, Principal Coordinator, PEACE Program, led a session titled 'Google Within, Meditation for Mental Health.' She discussed two conceptual models, the human model and the spiritual model. She described the human model as being guided by sensory experiences and the spiritual model as being governed by soul consciousness.

She also introduced Brahm Gyan meditation and spoke about its role in achieving mental balance through a state of thoughtlessness. She said, “The experience of nothingness, what we call a state of zero, with no thoughts, is the gateway to everything. Under the tutelage of my revered master Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, lakhs of individuals today are experiencing what we refer to as purnavtva, or a state of eternal mental bliss. And this is achieved through the consistent practice of Brahm Gyan-based meditation.”

Sadhvi Parma Bharti ji, Facilitator, PEACE Program, conducted a session on the role of physical activity in mental health, focusing on yoga and breathing exercises. She explained the nature of the mind and described it as a non-physical yet influential entity. She also addressed the concept of mental 'viruses' and shared various techniques including breathing patterns, yoga postures, marma therapy, and mudras for emotional and mental balance. Attendees followed along with the yoga postures and breathing techniques led from the stage.

Sadhvi Shailasa Bharti ji, Facilitator, PEACE Program, led a session on 'Ayurvedic Living'. The session covered nutrition-based approaches to mental wellness. Participants were introduced to food habits rooted in Ayurveda, along with other health practices such as laughter routines and quizzes. She also stated, “Our food choices either support or stress our body’s natural pH system. Alkaline-rich diets including Spinach, lemon, cucumber reduce the risk of chronic conditions”.

A video presentation, 'God Can Be Seen', was also played at the end of the event, featuring testimonials from individuals who claimed to have benefited from the teachings and Brahm Gyan meditation practices bestowed by Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji.

Honorable MP Gary Maas said, “One of the great things about our community is that it’s multifaith, multicultural, and has cohesive government. When local and state governments work together, when different community groups unite, we become so much better than the sum of the individual parts. The sum of all of us working towards a common goal is just so much greater. And today, walking in, seeing incredible demonstrations, it stood out to me—our community cares not just about healthy bodies, but healthy minds as well. And that is truly a great thing.”

Mayor Stefan Koomen expressed, “It's really been a fantastic experience. I've spent the last hour taking part in this wonderful performance, presentation, and workshop—it's been incredibly engaging. From a mental health awareness perspective, it highlights the importance of our different communities, understanding diverse approaches, and embracing a holistic approach to mental health and well-being. This was an enlightening and empowering event.”

Dr. Raju, President of Co-organizer, AMON said, “I have been very impressed by the practical and pragmatic approach of the PEACE Program and how it addresses the cause of mental health across different classes of the community. I would also like to emphasize on the part where Sadhvi Ji spoke about the Eternal Science of Meditation, beautifully uniting Spirituality with Science.”

The event was supported by multiple sponsors including Teesdale Family Medical Centre, Absolut Financial, Trinity Medical Group, Gurzora Homes, Perfect Web Designer, Commune Health Services, Lotus Family Clinic, Urban Dream Real Estate, Brilliant Migration Club, and SAM Hair & Beauty Spot. Community organizations such as Sahara Victorian Association, Let’s Feed, Vedic Global, Aastha, AHA, and MISC also extended their support.