Learn a new way to meditate

NMU students and faculty are invited to learn a new way to meditate and calm down.

Falun Dafa is a cultivation practice that can lead to a lower stress level, higher energy levels and an overall healthy lifestyle, said Hsinling Hsieh, associate professor of economics and Falun Dafa presenter.

“It’s good for all ages, and we welcome people from all walks of life,” Hsieh said.

The event will focus on the five sets of gentle exercises beginning with stretching and ending with sitting meditation. Hsieh will also provide information on the persecutions of Falun Dafa in China.

Students are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, towel, or blanket for the sitting meditation.

The SkillBuilder! is March 30 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Charcoal Room of the University Center. There is no cost for the event. Students can register by calling the Student Leader Fellowship Program at 906-227-1771 or are welcome to just show up at the event.

– Nikki Irish

Talk focuses on environment

On Friday, March 25 the NMU Center for Native American Studies will host its fourth annual NMU Indigenous Earth Issues Summit. This event will be held in the Whitman Hall Commons and is from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Summit is free and open to the public.

“The goals of the NMU Indigenous Earth Issues Summits are to inform people about relevant environment issues, empower them with the tools to effect change for the Earth, and inspire them to go out and make a positive difference for the environment in their communities,” said Aimee Cree Dunn, Indigenous Earth Issues Summit coordinator.

This year’s summit is focused on the north woods and traditional ecological knowledge and philosophy of Native Americans, particularly Anishinaabe. Linda Hogan, award-winning environmental and Chickasaw author, will be the presenter. The presentation starts at 1 p.m. with a book signing at 7 p.m. The Earth Jam: Music and Poetry open mic will start at 7 p.m.

— Shaina James

Professors read Virginia Woolf’s ‘Professions of Women’

As part of NMU’s celebration of Women’s History Month, there will be a performed reading of “Professions for Women.”

The piece written by Virginia Woolf was a “forward thinking piece for its time,” said Shelley Russell, one of the six women who will be reading.  The piece was written in the 1930s and focuses on the expectations of women during that time and breaking those expectations.

“We’re anticipating an illuminating discussion following the reading and hope everyone will be able to share their responses to Woolf’s essay,” she said.

This event will be held Tuesday, March 29 at 4 p.m. in the Cadillac Room of the University Center.  There is no cost and the public is invited to attend.

— Shana Schmitt