A mindful morning began with a guided meditation held from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. in the Convention Hall of the College of Science and Technology. The calm energy of the faculty members gathered in the hall complemented the reflective tone of the session.
The session was led by Lopen Lungten Gyatsho, President of CLCS, who opened with a simple but powerful question: “Why mindfulness?”. He described mindfulness as the practice of being fully present and aware, enabling individuals to respond with clarity rather than react on impulse. This perspective resonated strongly in the context of the first Annual Faculty Meet, where thoughtful dialogue and shared purpose were central.
The session focused on cultivating awareness of one’s inner experience and being present in the moment rather than allowing thoughts to dwell in the past or in the projections of future over which no one has control. Participants were then invited to observe their thoughts with openness, allowing a mindful arrival in the present moment and to recognize emotions as they emerged, especially in challenging situations. The ability to identify and acknowledge these emotions was presented as an indication of awareness and mindful presence.
Gentle instructions guided faculty members to release physical tension and settle mental distractions. Everyone was then invited to observe thoughts with openness, allowing a gentle arrival in the present moment.
This mindful beginning reflected the core spirit of A Hundred Ideas. The session highlighted the connection between well-being and academic excellence, reminding participants that creativity, collaboration, and innovation are strengthened when the mind is calm and focused.
The session concluded with a few minutes of breathing and quiet reflection. As the meditation ended, the atmosphere in the hall was composed and attentive. Faculty members then transitioned into the day’s plenary sessions feeling centered, ready, and open to new ideas, carrying both clarity of mind and a shared sense of purpose.