Meditation and mindfulness are an essential part of life at the chapel and Carleton more broadly. We offer a wide range of opportunities from different practices and traditions, from simple breath-work practices to sound baths meditation to Tibetan, Zen, and Wŏn Buddhist mindfulness and teachings. Our programs below are inclusive of all people, backgrounds, and experience levels. We know that life at Carleton can be stressful and we hope that these opportunities offer invitations for grounding, relaxation, peace of mind, and spiritual practice in a supportive community.

Won Buddhist Meditation with Sungha Yun, Buddhist Priest and Professor of Religion and Asian Studies

Join us, and Sungha Yun, Wŏn Buddhist Priest and Assistant Professor or Religion and Asian Studies at St. Olaf College, in exploring Wŏn Buddhist meditation and practice.

Meditation and teachings is held on Thursday evenings on the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th weeks of the term from 8 – 9 p.m. in the main sanctuary of Skinner Memorial Chapel. Below are descriptions of each session. All are welcome!

September 26th: The Art of Transforming Suffering into Happiness
As we navigate life, we encounter countless challenges and difficulties. In this session, we will reflect on the pains and struggles we face, explore the wisdom Buddhism provides for overcoming suffering, and meditate on how to apply this wisdom in our daily lives.

October 10th: Chanting Meditation “Namu Amit’abul” (Homage to Amitābha Buddha, the Buddha of Limitless Life)
In this session, we will delve into the meaning of the famous Buddhist chant “Namu Amit’abul” (Ch. Namo Āmituo Fo, J. Namu Amida Butsu) and practice discovering the true Buddha within ourselves through this chanting.

October 24th: Sitting Meditation
In this session, we will learn specific techniques for seated meditation and practice them together. We will cover how to warm up before meditation, proper breathing techniques, the correct posture for meditation, and how to maintain our focus. This practice will provide an opportunity to turn our attention inward, shifting away from our usual outward focus.

November 7th: Mindfulness Meditation
In this session, we will reflect on how the Buddhist meditation methods we have learned this semester can be applied through mindfulness practice to enhance our daily lives and contribute to making the world a better place.

Time to Meditate

Join us for the simple practice of quiet meditation. Led by students, this is a perfect opportunity for a low pressure, but impact experience of meditation.

Join us each week in the main sanctuary of Skinner Memorial Chapel. We meet at the following times:

  • Mondays, 8:15pm – 9 pm
  • Wednesdays, 7:15pm – 8 pm

Sound Bath Meditation

Join us each term for a sound bath meditation. Come and learn more about sound baths, including their origin, their practice, and their wellness benefits.

Koru Mindfulness

Led by the Carleton Office of Health Promotion, Koru Meditation is a series of classes and retreats that invite you to go deeper into the practice of mindfulness and meditation. For the spring of 2024, the following programs are offered:

  • Koru Basic: Tuesdays (Weeks 3 thru 6) @ 1:30pm-2:45pm
  • Koru 2.0: Wednesdays (Weeks 3 thru 6) @ 3:30-4:45pm
  • Koru “Mini” (NEW): Tuesdays (Weeks 7 thru 10) @ 2:00pm-2:30pm in Hasenstab 111
  • Silent Meditation Retreat: Midterm Monday (April 29th) @ 1:00pm-4:30pm

Buddhist Studies in Bodh Gaya, India

Since 1979, Carleton students and others have traveled to Bodh Gaya, India to spend a semester practicing Buddhist meditation with recognized masters, studying the faith with academic experts, and doing fieldwork on independent study projects rooted in what they’ve learned. The program gives students the opportunity to walk in the literal footsteps of the Buddha.

Learn more and to apply.

Check out a recent OCS blog post about the program.

Learn more about our specific programs: