USA leaders, USA Health physician join global meditation event in Mobile

Jai Thakur, M.D., speaks with Eric Loomis, Ph.D., and Joél Billingsly, Ph.D., at the meditation event.  

This spring, a global meditation event featuring world-renowned geopolitical humanitarian and spiritual leader “Gurudev” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was held in Mobile.  

During the event, Jai Thakur, M.D., chief of minimally invasive cranial and skull base neurosurgery, and an associate professor at the Whiddon College of Medicine, presented a talk on his personal journey and the role of mindfulness activities. Thakur discussed the vital integration of evidence-based meditation practices in both healthcare professions for providers and patients.  

Previously, he presented his research at the American Association of Neurological Surgeons meeting on the role of focused-attention meditation practices in neurosurgical patients.  

Jai Thakur, M.D., discusses focused attention

and evidence-based breathing techniques.

Led by Gurudev, information presented during the meeting included diverse spiritual and mental well-being knowledge. The event culminated in a collective mindfulness session for all attendees. 

“Mobile was lucky to host Gurudev for the meditation event promoting mental hygiene and stress reduction in our community/university campus, that also provided avenues for combating PTSD in veterans via project Welcome Home Troops,” Thakur said. “His commitment in fostering peace and stress-free communities across 180 countries and creating evidence-based focused attention and breathing techniques, is deeply inspirational.”  

The event was attended by numerous local leaders, including Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson, and former Mobile Mayor Mike Dow. The University of South Alabama, and its division USA Health, was represented by Thakur and Eric J. Loomis, Ph.D., and Joél Billingsley, Ph.D.

“Having a leading figure in contemporary meditation such as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar provide instruction was a great opportunity for the Mobile community to gain further experience with techniques that have significant and demonstrated mental and physical benefits,” said Loomis, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at USA.  

Billingsley, an associate professor in instructional design and development and administrator of Youth Leadership Mobile, also participated. “It was wonderful to meet Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and learn more about the Art of Living,” she said. “We are so grateful to have this event in Mobile for our community to experience.” 

Gurudev’s work has evolved into a global mission of service and education, impacting more than 800 million people in 180 countries. Learn more about his service.