I am an upcoming second year at UCLA this fall.

My meditation and breathwork practice is an essential part of my daily routine, providing me with a sense of balance and clarity in my life. I've developed a personalized approach that suits my needs and preferences. I begin my day with a 10-minute meditation session. I find a quiet, comfortable spot where I won't be disturbed, usually sitting cross-legged on a cushion. I like to start with a few deep, grounding breaths to settle in. Then, I focus on my breath, observing its natural rhythm. If my mind starts to wander, I gently bring my attention back to my breath. Sometimes, I incorporate a guided meditation to explore different mindfulness techniques or themes. Throughout the day, especially during busy moments, I take short "breathwork breaks." These are quick, one to two-minute sessions where I close my eyes, take a few deep, intentional breaths, and let go of any tension or stress. It helps me stay centered and focused. Whenever possible, I like to combine my mindfulness practice with nature. I might take a mindful walk in a nearby park, paying close attention to the sights, sounds, and sensations around me. Connecting with nature enhances my sense of presence and inner peace. In the evening, I set aside another 5-10 minutes for meditation. This session often includes a body scan to release any physical tension built up during the day. I use this time to reflect on my day, express gratitude, and prepare my mind for a restful night's sleep. Once a week, I dedicate a 15 minute session to explore more profound aspects of meditation, such as mindfulness of emotions or loving-kindness meditation. This allows me to delve deeper into my practice and address any specific areas of personal growth. My meditation and breathwork practice is an evolving journey, and I'm open to trying new techniques and approaches as I continue to explore and deepen my mindfulness practice. It brings me a sense of inner calm, resilience, and a heightened awareness of the present moment, which positively impacts all aspects of my life.

One creative way to build a community around Open on the UCLA campus is to host a "Mindful Mondays" or "Wellness Wednesdays" event series. I would approach organizing these events in this way… First, I would transform a vibrant campus spot, probably the Tongva Steps into "The Mindful Mingle Hub," a haven of serenity and self-discovery. With access to funds and the right budgeting, I would decorate the hub with twinkling fairy lights, glowing lanterns, cozy mats, and inviting cushions with soft music playing in the background to promote a space of calm and positive energy. Each week, our community would embark on a different "Mindful Journey." One week could be "Zen Garden Serenity," featuring sand art and meditation, while the next might be "Cosmic Connection" with stargazing and celestial meditation. In addition, I would bring in surprise guest stars, from local yoga celebrities to professors known for their mindfulness expertise. Their unique perspectives will add an element of anticipation to each gathering. For a more unique experience, I would try to engage all the senses by hosting a "Mindful Picnic" where students enjoy a sensory feast of aromatic teas and gourmet snacks while practicing mindfulness. Another idea I could incorporate to create a more inclusive environment for the Open family is to showcase student art inspired by mindfulness throughout the semester. To foster a sense of vulnerability, I could hold interactive painting sessions where attendees can express their emotions through art. Once a semester, I could also host a "Mindful Carnival" featuring interactive games that challenge participants to remain mindful while having fun, such as mindful mini-golf or a "Zen Labyrinth" challenge. I could also start a "Whispers of Mindfulness" campaign where our community would leave small notes with mindfulness tips and inspirational quotes hidden around campus for students to discover. By adding these creative twists to my community-building efforts, I hope to make mindfulness an exciting and memorable part of campus life, drawing students in and fostering a deeper connection with Open's philosophy.