Club connects mind, body

By: Heather Jackson, Staff Writer

Posted: 6/9/09

The University Union is typically a busy, bustling place. When the Meditation Club meets at 4 p.m. each Tuesday in room 114 to meditate, it's a different story.

The club's meetings are open to anyone looking for a way to relax and "center." The mediation program focuses on breathing, the connection between mind and body, and walking meditation.

"There is something in meditation that helps us find peace and calmness," said Paht Sapong, the group's organizer. "[Meditation] is healthy and helps you focus and concentrate."

Meditation refers to a variety of techniques or practices intended to focus or control attention, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine's Web site.

In a study performed by the center, meditation was shown to improve the brain's information-processing abilities, which could help students study. That, Sapong said, is one of the main reasons he wanted to bring meditation to UNT.

Sapong also claims that meditation has health benefits like increased blood circulation and deeper breathing.

"[After meditating] you have a better connection between your thoughts and your body," said Sapong, who became an ordained monk in 1995. "Your mind is clear and you feel better overall."

Varya Ignatchenko, a drawing and painting senior who has attended about 20 meetings, said meditation renders very positive results for her.

"I can keep better control of my emotions and it really improves my attention" she said.

Fashion design junior Jasmine Rose has attended about six meditation sessions and enjoys the escape it provides.

"It's a great way to escape from everyday life," Rose said. "It's very relaxing and re-energizing."

The Meditation Club will continue to meet every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. throughout the summer in room 114 of the Union.