The free benefit gig, organised by the Art of Living Foundation, featured artists from Columbia, Africa, India, the Middle East and Australia.

The foundation's Kalpana Jayashankar said the festival had followed a five-day leadership workshop for youth that was aimed at promoting interaction and better understanding between cultural groups, and instilling a sense of confidence in those taking part. Ms Jayashankar said this was done through teachings around yoga, meditation and breathing techniques.

"So people go from being influenced by the environment to influencing the environment."

Maidstone's Andrew Grabski said he felt a lot less stressed after taking part in the workshop. "It took a few days, but I'm starting to feel invigorated and calmer."

Ronnie Rai said his parents in India had encouraged him to try the course. "It shows the whole power that the breath has and that we live too much in the past and in anxieties of the future instead of the present."

Facilitator Hassan Tafti said people should not be surprised about such major changes in outlook being achieved in such a short amount of time.

"If this hall [at West Footscray's YMCA] was in darkness for 40 years it wouldn't take another 40 years to bring it into light."

The Art of Living Foundation was established by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981.

Details: Click here to visit The Art of Living website.