Mindfulnest Meditation Pod Shut Down at Maastricht University After Students Use Itfor Sex
Maastricht, Netherlands – A Mindfulnestmeditation pod at Maastricht University’s Arts and Social Sciences faculty has been shut down after students reportedly used it for sexual activity. The pod, which was installed inthe spring of 2022, was intended to provide students with a quiet space for relaxation and meditation. However, complaints about its use for inappropriate activitiesled to its removal.
The Mindfulnest, an almost soundproof cabinet equipped with a bench, pillows, and a tablet playing soothing sounds, was placed in a student lounge. The pod’s sign, which encouraged users to Do whatever feelsgood, was apparently taken too literally by some students.
According to the university newspaper Observant, complaints about the pod’s use for sex grew, with students citing concerns about hygiene and discomfort. The faculty director agreed to remove the pod as soon as possible.
The Mindfulnest was funded by government money allocated to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. While the pod was scheduled to be removed in March 2025 due to the depletion of these funds, the complaints about its misuse accelerated the decision.
Maastricht University has already removedtwo other Mindfulnest units, but a spokesperson stressed that those removals were for business reasons and not due to complaints. The university is now exploring alternative ways to provide students with relaxation opportunities, including the use of VR glasses for yoga and meditation.
An additional advantage of VR glasses is that it is no longer aclosed cubicle, so you know for sure that it is used correctly, the spokesperson told Observant.
The incident highlights the challenges universities face in providing students with spaces for relaxation and well-being while ensuring their appropriate use. The case also raises questions about the effectiveness of providing such spaces in a university environment where students areoften under pressure and may be seeking alternative ways to de-stress.
Sources:
- NL Times: Maastricht Univ. shuts down mindful nest after students use meditation space for sex
- Observant: Mindfulnest verwijderd na klachten over seks
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