TAMIU Dedicates Meditation Room Wednesday

Just in time for the stress-filled days of final exams and semester research papers, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) has dedicated an on-campus Meditation Room to help students de-stress and practice contemplation.

The room is located in the TAMIU Student Center, room 218, and will be formally dedicated in brief ceremonies scheduled Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014 at 10 a.m.

Dedicating a space to contemplation is becoming a new standard for college campuses across the nation, said Teresa Renn of the University’s Office of Student Orientation, Leadership and Engagement.

“In the past 10 years positive research on the effects of meditation and contemplative practice has prompted campuses to dedicate spaces for this purpose. Studies indicate that those who spend time on meditation are better able to deepen engagement with complex subject matter.  Meditation and contemplation are also thought to build self-awareness and critical thinking abilities,” Renn explained.

International student advisor Cynthia Martínez said the Room initiative also grew from student requests for a dedicated space that could function as a meditative or non-denominational prayer space on campus.

“The tremendous growth in our international student population lends our campus to more diverse viewpoints and experiences. Meditation is experienced in diverse ways throughout the world and a dedicated space to celebrate diverse expressions is a tribute to the University’s commitment to the tolerance and inclusion of all students,” Martínez noted.

The Meditation Room is designed with relaxation in mind. Students, faculty and staff can enter a serene environment to take a few moments from their day to refresh their mind and spirit.

The Meditation Room is open Monday – Friday from 7 :00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

The space is a shared common area on campus. Reservations are not accepted and individuals must abide by student-designed rules and regulations for the community space.

For additional information on the TAMIU Meditation Room, please contact Renn at 956.326.2281, email teresam.renn@tami.edu, or visit offices in the Student Center, room 226.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu