Author: Azur Ekić
Mihovil Mašović (MM) is the president of the Holistic Center Krnjak association and vice president of the European Institute for Human Values (EIHV). After completing his studies in sociology and philosophy, he attended various trainings and seminars focused on holistic self-development, with mindfulness, focused awareness, and aromatherapy being the most prominent methods he applies in his work. He leads seminars and workshops for adults and children, provides individual counseling, and works on raising awareness through two active associations.
The Awakening Times (TAT): What do you focus on in your line of duty, and what was the inspiration behind it?
MM: My work and activities are guided in three directions, inspired by the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba:
A) Spirituality
B) Education
C) Helping those in need
With a tendency for actions in each domain to be straightforward and applicable.
TAT: I guess we should start with A then! Spirituality…in what way?
MM: In the field of spirituality, my work has evolved from healing practices toward ever-simpler ways of reducing the vast spectrum of experiences, dimensions, and feelings an individual can go through when opening up to themselves. The aim is to return to the fundamental state of silence, love, and peace.
I feel that the way an individual communicates with themselves and others is far more valuable than the information or experiences they encounter, whether it involves contact with extraterrestrial civilizations, communication with angels, synchronicities, or supernatural gifts that may arise as a result of opening oneself.
Everything has its place, time, and method. When the time is ripe—when one is certain and calm—it is time to share knowledge. In other words, when patience, attentiveness, gentleness, and kindness in our relationship with ourselves and others become our most loyal friends on the spiritual path, that is it.
In my case, there has always been a tendency to share spiritual knowledge in a systematically organized way. My practice under the name Mindfulness has provided a framework that is both structured and free. This combination of natural order and the possibility of free expression offers true freedom.
In addition to Mindfulness seminars and workshops, I also lead entirely spontaneous individual counseling sessions and retreats. Silence is the foundation of my work and teaching.
TAT: How do you carry out the educational part?
MM: The educational aspect of my work is carried out through the EIHV—European Institute for Human Values—where I serve as vice president.
The European Institute for Human Values works to raise awareness, promote fundamental human values, and transform individuals and society.
To address various societal groups, we prepare and implement educational programs for teachers, parents, social workers, healthcare professionals, the business community, children, teenagers, and the general public. A significant segment of the Institute’s work involves supporting vulnerable social groups and individuals.
The majority of the work at the Institute has been carried out by four of us—three wonderful collaborators to whom I am extremely grateful: Borna Lulić, Kristina Panić, and Saša Vlahinić.
In just two years, we conducted over 80 lectures, workshops, and courses, attended by more than 1,600 people. These included several multi-month projects. As an educator, I was part of the seven-month project “Conscious Teaching” carried out with the Agency for Education and Upbringing, the main body of the Ministry of Education for teacher training.
Other projects include “5 Human Values for Librarians” (also in collaboration with the Agency), “Conscious Living Through 5 Human Values” for citizens, and the “Dynamic Parenting” course, a multi-month program for parents.
TAT: How do people respond to these courses and workshops?
MM: The responses have been excellent. The purpose of all these educational efforts is transformation “from within,” so people experience greater satisfaction in their workplaces and become beacons of change in all social structures.
Currently, at the Institute, we are translating and adapting 15 textbooks for children aged 3 to 18. These materials serve as practical guides on ethics and mindfulness for children, parents, and teachers. This project, which originated in India and involved around 30 experts in its development, is being implemented simultaneously in over 60 countries, with the goal of reaching 100 soon.
In Croatia, we have gathered a team of about 20 people working on this complex project, and we hope the team will grow. This is an opportunity to invite interested teachers, illustrators, graphic editors, translators, and proofreaders to join and contribute their best.
It’s important to note that this work is entirely voluntary and free, as part of a global movement aiming to provide free education, healthcare, and food worldwide.
TAT: What is your personal motivation for helping those in need?
MM: Helping and giving have always come naturally to me. At times, it was to an extreme extent, leading to situations of severe deprivation and emotional breakdowns. A significant shift toward healthy giving came when I changed my mindset.
Now, when I see someone in need, I simply give what I can and move on, without collapsing into sadness. Unconditional love is about giving without creating stories about who someone is or what their situation might be. Sometimes, by helping, we might actually take away someone’s opportunity to change.
Why not give to those who already give, so they can give even more?
TAT: Any final words for our readers?
MM: Finally, I would like to mention Krnjak, a small town 20 km south of Karlovac, where I’ve lived for five years. I came here after hearing that a beautiful center for human development would be built under the guidance of Sri Madhusudan Sai.
In these five years, there have been enough anecdotes for another interview, but the most valuable news is that construction is starting. Regular activities can soon be expected, turning visions into reality.
TAT: Before we go, Mihovil shared some practical exercises for our readers.
Exercises by Mihovil
Conscious Breathing into the Abdomen:
“Breathing is a proven technique for calming the mind. Before bed, place your hand on your abdomen below the navel. Feel your abdomen expand with each inhale and contract with each exhale. Breathe gently, entering that space below the navel, becoming one with your inner energy. Drift into sleep feeling calm and content.”
Love:
“Start your day with love. When you wake, feel and radiate love. You are the love you seek. Begin with 5 minutes each morning, then increase the time. Gradually, love will arise at work and in relationships. It is always there, always available. Radiate love—it is both the beginning and the end of all efforts.”
Sitting with Yourself:
“For 15–20 minutes, sit and observe. Be present. Establish a connection with God/Universe/Reality. Notice the space between you and your thoughts, sensations, and emotions. In this space lies freedom and the realization that nothing can bind you unless you allow it.”
