Lifeskills have been identified as a critical area of development for youths and have recently gotten much attention and resources by various governments around the world. In the Caribbean a Lifeskills curriculum has been developed that focuses on four pillars:
• Self and Interpersonal Relationships (including violence prevention)
• Eating and Fitness
• Sexuality and Sexual Health
• Managing the Environment
These pillars have been identified as the key to individual and societal development and the curriculum is geared towards development of competencies in these areas. Human Resource is the engine for growth of any society and it is rationalized that once we can facilitate the development of necessary competencies in our citizens then we can expect a progressive and good society. Lifeskills are intended to provide the necessary impetus to our youths and children (the future of our society) to gain those competencies that will position them to be able to take their place and space in society, leading with compassion, care and ethics.
Sanatan Dharma has identified these various competencies and gave to us various systems that lead to development in the same areas as identified by the Lifeskills curriculum. This is yet another example of the greatness of Sanatan Dharma; and the western world’s formalizing systems that have been institutionalized in our Dharma for an eternity.
Self and Interpersonal Relationships (including violence prevention)
Baray Bhagya Manush Tan Paawa – The Human Body is a blessed form and each person should know that there is divinity within them (Antaryami) .
Siya Ram Mai Saba Jaga Jaani – There is the presence of Shri Ram and Sita in all and thus all should respect themselves and respect others.
Ahimsa Parmo Dharma – Non aggression is the first law of Dharma.
Definition of Sanatan Dharma – A system detailing and guiding man’s relationship with God, fellow man, nature and the cosmos (inter and intra personal relationships)
Eating and Fitness
Satwic Diet prescribed
Ayurvedic Medication
Hatha Yoga – physical development
Sexuality and Sexual Health
Ashram System – Bramhacharya, Grihast, Vaanprast and Sanyaas.
Respect for females, mother, sisters, daughters – “.Listen, a younger brother’s wife, a sister, a daughter-in-law and one’s own daughter; these four are alike.” – Raamaayan.
Krodh (anger) – destroys reason and spirituality.
Managing the Environment
Worship of Dharti Mata / Pritivi Mata in Puja.
Worship of God present in Nature : in the Sun (Surya Mata), Water (Varun Devta), Wind (Vayu Devta).
Daily Obligation – Bhoot Yagya – caring for the lower forms of existence (animals)
Lifeskills have always existed in Sanatan Dharma and is included in aspects of the Dharma. Rituals, mythology and indeed Sanatan Dharma are founded on the principles of Satyam, Saucham, Dayaa and Daan. These competencies are intended to lead one through the journey of life in a safe and Dharmic manner and lead one to eventual self realization.
