Devices, Music, & Noise Levels

Karmê Chöling provides a contemplative practice environment for program participants, guests, and staff. This is supported by a culture of mindfulness and respectful community living.

While music and electronic devices are an integral part of modern life, they can be distracting in a retreat center. The following policy was developed with this in mind and applies to program participants, volunteers, and staff.

1. Devices used visually with no sound:
   Computers, laptops, and any other devices used as computers (i.e. using your phone to check e-mails, or for texting). These can be used anywhere in the house except in the shrine room during a practice session.
2. Devices using sound and audio:
   Cell phones and other devices used for phone calls, Zoom calls or watching movies (even with headphones) are to be used in:
   1. Private rooms
   2. Offices
   3. The Household Commons when otherwise not in use or
   4. The MI meeting rooms on the third floor when not being used in a program.
      (If this proves to be a hardship, please see your program coordinator or Guest Services.)
3. Formal Group Practice or Study Sessions:
   Groups may use electronics to present teachings or a movie to a group in a public space, such as the lower living room, dining room, or Main Shrine Room. These will be arranged by the KCL leadership.

These guidelines apply to all Karmê Chöling premises, including Ashoka Bhavan. (Family Camp is an exception)

• Music may be listened to or played at all times in the “Commons” room in the basement. Please be mindful of the noise level depending on time of day. Music should not be heard beyond the Commons space.
• Music may be played outside only when there are no programs on the land, unless there is a special event. Please take the cues from the phenomenal world when this is appropriate.
• Music may be listened to quietly in the kitchen but ONLY when there are no programs or staff practice days, and no in-house retreatants.
• There may be other circumstances when playing or listening to music is acceptable and even encouraged. If you are unsure, please check with KCL leadership.

Please be aware of how sound can travel through walls and floors. Be mindful of the noise level from your conversations, phone calls, musical instruments, and computer use. Make sure that the sound can't be heard beyond the space you are in. There are electronic noise makers you can use outside your door and headphones work very well to reduce the noise.
If you are having difficulty working with these guidelines, please contact KCL leadership to come up with solutions

These policy guidelines for Electronic Devices, Music, and Noise Levels are self regulated. We all have the authority to ensure that our practice and living space is free from unnecessary distractions. Remember, not everyone is familiar with the protocols at KCL or they may have a strong unconscious habit of taking their devices everywhere with them.

With a light touch, all of us can gently remind one another when this policy is not adhered to.

If you feel uncomfortable reminding individuals of the policy, speak with your program coordinator, Department Head, or Guest Services to determine what skillful means can be employed.