The (almost) soundproof cubicle – complete with bench, cushions and a tablet to play meditation exercises or calming music – was installed in the ‘lounge’ where FASoS students can study and relax in the spring of 2022. However, the instruction on the banner next to it to ‘Do whatever feels good’ has been taken rather literally by some, the latest Faculty Council meeting revealed.
While student members initially try to be euphemistic (“sometimes two students emerge together”, “it is not being used for its intended purpose”), eventually they can no longer beat about the bush: “students are having sex in it”. Are we sure, FASoS Director Constance Sommerey wants to know. “Have people been caught, has anything been left behind? [Said with a wink] After all, it is possible to meditate in pairs.” But the students are sure: “It has been confirmed”, is the cryptic response.
Whatever the case may be, they would prefer the cubicle be removed sooner rather than later. “Even the thought is enough to stop students from wanting to use it.” Furthermore, it takes up a lot of space in an already crowded lounge, and “that would be better served by more study places”.
However, moving it isn’t an option, says Sommerey. “Dismantling and re-installing it is too expensive.” The end of the Mindfulnest was imminent anyway: it was paid for using NPO funds, intended to soften the consequences of the Covid pandemic. “But that money is no longer available. The decision had already been made to remove the cubicle in March 2025.” Considering the complaints, Sommerey will contact the company behind the Mindfulnest to ask if it can be “removed as quickly as possible”.
The other Mindfulnests at UM – one in the University Library in the city centre and one in Randwyck – had already been removed in March of this year. But that was for “business reasons”, Meike Kerkhofs-Welkenhuizen, project leader innovative learning spaces, points out when asked. These cubicles were also paid for using NPO funds. “News that students were using them ‘inappropriately’ never reached our ears.” As the cubicles were very popular among students, alternatives are being explored. “We’re looking into VR glasses for yoga and meditation. One silver lining: they’re not closed off cubicles, so at least you can be sure they’re being used correctly.”