Koru Mindfulness is an evidence-based curriculum specifically designed for teaching mindfulness, meditation, and stress management to college students and other young adults.
Koru Basic is an introduction to mindfulness and meditation taught as a weekly, four-week, 75-minute class by a trained and certified Koru teacher.
Who can participate?
Koru Mindfulness is intended for young adults in the developmental stage of “emerging adulthood,” which lasts from about ages 18–29. Young adulthood is an exciting time of life, but it also involves lots of change and stress. Mindfulness is a great tool for optimizing this period of growth.
Can Koru be offered in my department, lab, residence, or center?
Absolutely! Offering Koru at a location that is convenient helps increase participation and build a strong community of mindful students. We have offered Koru at MacGregor, Simmons, and MIT Medical and can help you plan, promote, and run a successful Koru program, too. We simply ask that you designate a coordinator who can help with class logistics. For more information, please email wellness@med.mit.edu.
How much does the Koru program cost?
The total cost of the four-week program is $600 for up to 15 students (or $10 per student per class). Your department, lab, or center may want to cover the entire cost of the program or charge students a minimal fee to help with the cost. We’re happy to discuss the options with you.
How many MIT students have participated in the Koru program?
A total of 75 students completed the Koru program when was offered as a pilot through the MindHandHeart Initiative in the 2015–2016 school year. Here’s what some had to say:
“This class helped me learn to take time for myself every day, which is vital with our busy MIT schedules.”
“Has helped me find rest/sleep in a time of high anxiety in my life.”
“Be more aware of how I am feeling and why, and feel prepared to address these feelings.”
“Being in a class with other students was helpful - to hear how they responded to different practices and how they figured out ways to add mindfulness to their lives.”
“This is a course that all MIT students should experience early on in their college career!”
