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.

Learn more about our specific programs:

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.

Get Connected!

There are many ways to get connected at the chapel: We hope to see you around campus soon!