If you've passed recently through Turner Concourse on Johns Hopkins' East Baltimore campus, you may have noticed an archlike structure at the bottom of the stairs in the Ross Building. Last month, a portable relaxation booth called the Clarity Capsule arrived.
The Clarity Capsule provides a space for tranquillity and rejuvenation, which can help reduce stress, according to its creators at Buddha Booth. Students, faculty, staff, and visitors are welcome to spend a few minutes inside meditating, listening to music, doing a breathing exercise, or simply having a quiet moment to themselves.
"The Clarity Capsule is a visual reminder of Johns Hopkins' commitment to supporting well-being," says Roy Ziegelstein, vice dean for education in the School of Medicine. "Having a physical space to focus and recharge will be beneficial to many in our campus community."
Neda Gould, director of the Mindfulness Program at Johns Hopkins, recorded a five-minute guided meditation exercise specifically for users of the Clarity Capsule. That meditation, as well as information about JHU's premium access to the Calm app and other suggestions for using the Clarity Capsule, are available on University Health Services' Wellness website. When listening to a meditation or music, users should bring their own headphones and mobile device. However, there is no need for digital engagement—users can simply sit quietly in the space.
The Clarity Capsule already has some fans in East Baltimore.
"It gives me a place to step away from the chaos and get a nice, peaceful five minutes for meditation when I know I won't be interrupted by the phone or an email," says Lorraine Spencer, director of the School of Medicine's Office of Information Technology.
The Clarity Capsule is a collaboration of University Health Services' Office of Wellness and Health Promotion and the Office of Work, Life and Engagement.
"It's important that we all take time for self-care in our fast-paced and demanding environment," says April Floyd, senior director of Benefits and WorkLife. "Human Resources is committed to diversifying initiatives to support employee well-being. I hope a greater number of Hopkins employees and students can integrate a moment of well-being into their day."
The Clarity Capsule is currently on-site for a four-month trial period. Users are encouraged to provide feedback on the UHS webpage with the hopes of making the quiet space permanent.
Not near the East Baltimore campus? "If the Clarity Capsule is not accessible to you, we hope that you intentionally take moments to reset and rejuvenate," says Essence Pierce, WorkLife programs manager.
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