
It is the first Saturday of the Spring semester, and independent work deadlines and internship or job applications are on many students’ minds. However, for about twenty-five undergraduates who have gathered in Murray-Dodge Hall, these stressors have fallen to the wayside for the day. All have gathered here for a transformative daylong meditation retreat guided by Buddhist mediation expert and teacher, Santikaro.
Central to the retreat was the practice of mindful breathing, a cornerstone of Santikaro's teachings rooted in the Thai Buddhist tradition. Participants engaged in alternating periods of seated and walking meditation, harmonizing breath with movement, attuning themselves to the body’s most subtle sensations. Throughout the afternoon, Santikaro interspersed the smaller sessions with insights and reflections, deepening participants' understanding of the practice.
Tristan Zapari, a Senior neuroscience concentrator and regular meditator with the Office for Religious Life helped organize the event: “Part of the reason why we meditate is of course, that aspect of stress relief and managing the pressures that come at Princeton…But that's not all of it… part of the rationale is to develop a sense of community in the room.”
A vow of noble silence was incorporated into the retreat: a promise that also defined the space as one for profound introspection and connection.
Students left Murray Dodge empowered with the knowledge that they had spent six hours in meditation, and eight in shared silence. This event served as a reminder that every day, and every moment, offers an opportunity for mindful remembrance of the present.
The Office of Religious Life holds weekly lunchtime meditations on Wednesdays, also facilitated by Santikaro, but this retreat was a special opportunity for newcomers and seasoned meditators alike.
If you are interested, come join us on a Wednesday afternoon!