UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Journey Success Center, in partnership with Inward Bound Mindfulness and the student organization Mindfulness and Science of Happiness (MASH), is sending a group of Penn State students for a three-night, tech-free, secular mindfulness retreat March 7-10 in the Pocono Mountains.
Registration is limited to University Park-based students in any major and, thanks to support from a private donor and the University Park Allocation Committee, the cost is $35 per person, which includes housing, meals, transportation and the full retreat experience at the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.
“Personal and relational mindfulness have never been more relevant,” said Kevin Hulburt, director of the Journey Success Center who will also be supporting teacher for the retreat. “I have been working on these kinds of retreats for over 18 years, and it is not only a fun experience but often a profound one. Taking time to pause and connect with ourselves and each other is something we all need in these times of disconnection and overstimulation.”
Students are not required to have meditation experience to participate. Attendees can expect a mix of guided secular meditation (both seated and walking), mindful movement, small-group conversation and time to connect. There will also be creative and activity periods for arts, games, sports as well as time and space to relax.
“Mindfulness isn’t just ‘stress management,’” Hulburt said. “It’s a practical skill for helper professions — teaching, counseling, educational leadership — because it strengthens attention, self-awareness, and how we show up with others.”
Cara Lai, a longtime mindfulness educator who works with young adults, educators and community groups across the U.S., will be the lead teacher. Her teaching emphasizes accessible, secular mindfulness practices that support self-awareness, authenticity and meaningful connection with others. More information about her work can be found at Lai's website.
The shuttle will leave from the HUB-Robeson Center at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 7 and return to the same location at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10.
There are 35 spots available, on a first-come, first-served basis. Those wishing to apply should visit the registration website. The fee is due upon registration. Those who have successfully registered will receive a confirmation email.
More information can be found at the retreat website. Those with questions about the retreat should reach out to Hulburt via email at kjh170@psu.edu.