Last Thursday, May 7th, a meditation workshop was hosted by Rubi Haro and Dave Seymour. The workshop focused on breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and student discussion around managing stress through meditation.

During the workshop, Seymour led the students through a meditation exercise that lasted around thirty minutes. Students sat quietly with their eyes closed while he guided the session in a calm voice. The room remained quiet as the exercise continued. He instructed everyone to focus on their breathing and let go of any thoughts or stress occupying their minds. One of the first things he said was, “Observe your breathing.” Throughout the meditation, he continued giving instructions that encouraged students to focus on the present moment and pay attention to sensations in their bodies. At one point he stated, “I want you to notice that relaxation has a sensation.”

Seymour also discussed letting go of emotional stress. He told students, “If there’s anyone you hold resentment towards, I want you to try to let go of that resentment because it hurts you more than the other person.” He also acknowledged the stress many students may be experiencing by saying, “We’re all probably stressed with school.”

During breaks in the guided meditation, Seymour used a singing bowl, a metal bowl that produces a resonant high-frequency sound when struck. The sound echoed through the classroom and slowly faded during moments of silence, while students remained still and continued focusing on the exercise and calming sound.

After the meditation ended, students were invited to share their thoughts and experiences. One student explained that they struggled with keeping their thoughts focused during the session. Other students joined the discussion and talked about how meditation can help clear their minds, especially during stressful times such as finals week.

Before ending the workshop, Seymour reminded students, “You’re a human being, you have the right to feel goodness.” This workshop is held monthly for an opportunity to stay relaxed throughout the semester. The workshop was designed to introduce students to mindfulness and stress management techniques.