Research Guides: Meditation Resources: Start

What is meditation?

Meditation is the practice of being with whatever is arising in the present moment - both internally and externally - without trying to change, alter or judge it. The Tibetan word for meditation, "gom," means "to become familiar." Thus meditation is the practice of becoming familiar with our mind. Meditation can help us be connect better with ourselves and others, weather life's natural ups and downs, and build resiliency.

There are many different styles and approaches of meditation. There is also a growing body of research into the benefits of meditation. This guide will help you explore resources to start and support your practice. It also contains information on meditation resources available on campus.

Meditation at Gustavus

Interested in practicing meditation on campus? Welcome!

The Gustavus Meditation Program offers multiple practice sessions each week. You can also sign up for the weekly newsletter. All are welcome. No experience is necessary. The program offers secular meditations that can be practiced by anyone of any faith tradition or of no faith tradition.
The Gustavus Counseling Center offers a number of excellent meditation resources, including workshops, a sensory space, and a meditation course.
Explore the labyrinth and meditation garden in the Gustavus Arboretum.

There are also a number of Gustavus courses that incorporate mindfulness and meditation, either as a core focus of the course or as component. Keep an eye out for them when registering for classes!

If you have any questions about meditation resources or practice, please reach out to us. You’ll be connected with a certified meditation teacher on campus.

Meditation

From 16 Meditation Quotes That Will Help You Stay Grounded

The Promise of Meditation

We hear a lot in contemporary culture about how meditation can fix stress, worries, and other problems. The unfortunate news? Meditation won’t fix anything. It’s not a magic pill. This is good news, actually. People often start meditation in the hopes that it will make them feel better. They often stop when their problems don’t immediately go away. Rather than seeing meditation as a tool to use to fix something in your life, the invitation is to see meditation as a practice to help you see your life clearly.

Over the long run, meditation helps us be less reactive, more present, and more in touch with how our unique and beautiful minds operate. You’re invited to explore this rich tradition by using the resources on this guide. If you have any questions, please contact librarian & meditation teacher Julie Gilbert, who is more than happy to work with you on your research and meditation questions