The successful bidder for this item will have the choice of participating in, or gifting, one of the 2020 weekend retreats, of two or three days' duration, offered by the Insight Meditation Society (IMS).

Set amidst 200 wooded acres in Barre, MA. IMS is one of the Western world’s most respected centers for learning and deepening meditation practice. Since opening its doors in 1976, its experienced teachers—including Sharon Salzberg, Joseph Goldstein, Jack Kornfield, Christina Feldman and others—have offered guidance in Buddhist meditations known as vipassana (insight) and metta (lovingkindness). These practices help develop awareness and compassion in ourselves, giving rise to greater peace and happiness in the world.

A meditation retreat at IMS's Retreat Center is an opportunity for spiritual refuge and transformation. It is an invitation to explore the possibility of freedom of heart and mind, amidst quiet and seclusion. Our weekend retreats are designed for both new and experienced meditators--all are welcome. While the context is the Buddha’s teachings, the practices are universal.

The IMS Kitchen has developed meal plans over the decades that support a meditation environment. They balance the need to provide nutritious food for all retreatants with a level of renunciation that is beneficial to practice. To this end, food is available only at meal times.

Visit the IMS website to learn about all the rich practice opportunities that this important meditation center offers.