Upcoming Special Events

Upcoming Special Events

Upcoming Special Events

June 10, 2025
  • June 10, 2025

    Tuesday 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness with Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    Offered by: Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    [ Add to Calendar ]

June 14, 2025
  • June 14, 2025

    Saturday 9:30 am - 3:30 pm

    Four Postures and Beyond: Mindfulness Meditation Daylong with Kim Allen

    In-person at IMC only
    Offered by:  Kim Allen
    Buddhist teachings emphasize abiding in mindfulness during meditation and throughout our daily activities. This daylong retreat includes instruction in all four meditation postures — sitting, walking, standing, and lying down. We will also practice mindfulness during speech and mindfulness of our thoughts.
     
    The day will include guided meditations, dharma teachings, and a short session of speaking in small groups. This daylong retreat is an opportunity to strengthen mindfulness, develop continuity, practice with the IMC community, and ask a teacher questions. This daylong is appropriate for those who have completed an introduction to mindfulness meditation daylong or series, and those with more experience. Registration is not required. Bring lunch. 

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here
     
    No registration is necessary.
     
    Kim Allen has trained for many years with Gil Fronsdal and the IMC community, and now teaches throughout the Bay Area and beyond.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

June 17, 2025
  • June 17, 2025

    Tuesday 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness with Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    Offered by: Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    [ Add to Calendar ]

June 20, 2025
  • June 20, 2025

    Friday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

    Summer Solstice Walk in Edgewood Park with Kristen Benson

    Let's meet in the Edgewood Park parking lot at 11am for a 3+ mile hike — approximately 3 hours

    What: We will celebrate this celestial event walking through local ecosystems with some periods of silence bringing our awareness to the present, paying attention to our senses. There will be a time of sitting with a ritual and a gathering together.

    Join: Kristen Benson, an Buddist Chaplain through the Sati Center. A chaplain of the spiritual connection of people and the land/earth, who loves the earth and all that she blesses us with.

    What to bring: Walking shoes, water, layers of clothing, snacks, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses.

    Questions: There is no need to RSVP, but if you have questions, please contact Kristen Benson kristenbensonart@gmail.com. 650-483-6838


    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

June 24, 2025
  • June 24, 2025

    Tuesday 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness with Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    Offered by: Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    [ Add to Calendar ]

July 1, 2025
  • July 1, 2025

    Tuesday 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness with Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    Offered by: Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    [ Add to Calendar ]

July 5, 2025
  • July 5, 2025

    Saturday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

    Introductory Mindfulness Meditation Daylong with Mei Elliott

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: Mei Elliott
    This daylong retreat will include guided meditations, dharma talks, and alternating periods of sitting and walking. Instructions and guidance on mindfulness of breathing, body, emotions, thoughts, and open attention will be provided. This daylong retreat is an opportunity to strengthen mindfulness, develop concentration, practice with the IMC community, and ask a teacher questions. This daylong is appropriate for beginners and those with more experience. Registration is not required. Bring lunch.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    No registration is necessary.

    Mei Elliott is a Dharma Teacher through Insight Meditation Center. She currently serves as the Co-Director of Insight Retreat Center.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

July 9, 2025
  • July 9, 2025

    Wednesday 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness with Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    Offered by: Tom Fenner and Lydia Ridgway

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    [ Add to Calendar ]

July 19, 2025
  • July 19, 2025

    Saturday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Flowing Wisdom, Ripples of Insight with Ying Chen, David Lorey, Diana Clark and Kim Allen

    Daylong sponsored by the Sati Center
    In-person at IMC
    Offered by:  Ying Chen, David Lorey, Diana Clark and Kim Allen
    Register on the Sati Center website

    Join us for an illuminating exploration of water similes found throughout the Pali Canon, where the Buddha masterfully used the transformative and dynamic qualities of water to illustrate profound spiritual teachings. This daylong retreat will delve into the rich metaphorical landscape of water as a powerful support for meditation and daily practice. 

    The retreat will include alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation, teachings and Q&A. Cooling ice-water will be available all day long. This retreat is intended for people who already understand the basic practice of mindfulness meditation.

    [ Add to Calendar ]

July 26, 2025
  • July 26, 2025

    Saturday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation Daylong Retreat with bruni dávila

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: bruni dávila

    This daylong retreat will include guided meditations, dharma talks, and alternating periods of sitting and walking. Instructions and guidance on mindfulness of breathing, body, emotions, thoughts, and open attention will be provided. This daylong retreat is an opportunity to strengthen mindfulness, develop concentration, practice with the IMC community, and ask a teacher questions. Appropriate for beginners and those with more experience. Bring lunch.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

July 27, 2025
  • July 27, 2025

    Sunday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

    Summer Potluck Picnic at Red Morton Park

    Location: Red Morton Park, Picnic Area #3
    Join the IMC community to share friendship and favorite summer foods at IMC's vegetarian potluck picnic. If possible, bring a vegetarian dish to share with 4–6 people. If you are unable to bring food, bring yourself! We'll drive to Red Morton Park after the Dharma talk,

    DIRECTIONS FROM IMC:
    • Head west on Hopkins Ave
    • Turn left onto King St
    • Turn right onto Jefferson Ave
    • Turn Left onto Valota Rd
    • Parking lot is on the left just past the grassy area

    Everyone is welcome. The park includes the Magical Bridge Playground for kids of all abilities.

    For questions or suggestions, contact Hilary at imc.volunteerdirector@gmail.com

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  • July 27, 2025

    Sunday 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation with Mei Elliott

    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Mei Elliott
    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

    [ Add to Calendar ]

August 2, 2025
  • August 2, 2025

    Saturday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

    Daylong with Gil Fronsdal

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: Gil Fronsdal

    Practicing mindfulness on retreat is one of the foundations for maturing insight meditation. The simplicity, silence and support of retreats contribute to letting go of many of the distractions that get in the way of clear seeing. Retreats also are a wonderful environment for developing a continuity of awareness for an extended period.

    This particular daylong retreat is meant for people who already understand the basic practice of mindfulness; no instruction will be given.

    The schedule consists of alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation. At the end of the day Gil gives a Dharma talk. Brief interviews to talk about the practice will be available with Gil. Previous experience is recommended. Bring Lunch.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 3, 2025
  • August 3, 2025

    Sunday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 3, 2025

    Sunday 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation with Mei Elliott

    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Mei Elliott
    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

    [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 3, 2025

    Sunday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 4, 2025
  • August 4, 2025

    Monday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 4, 2025

    Monday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 5, 2025
  • August 5, 2025

    Tuesday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 5, 2025

    Tuesday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 6, 2025
  • August 6, 2025

    Wednesday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 6, 2025

    Wednesday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 7, 2025
  • August 7, 2025

    Thursday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 7, 2025

    Thursday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 8, 2025
  • August 8, 2025

    Friday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 8, 2025

    Friday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 9, 2025
  • August 9, 2025

    Saturday 7:30 am - 9:30 am

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat (Online Zoom format)
    Taught by Andrea Fella
    Inspired by the teachings of Sayadaw U Tejaniya.
    August 3-9, 2025 with two online sessions daily 7:30am – 9:30am; (PT)  3:30pm – 4:30pm (PT)

    Registration is required: To register fill out this Registration Form.  For questions, contact Yosh Haggerty at yosh@insightretreatcenter.org.


    During this weeklong online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    For more details about the retreat, see the Non-residential Retreat Event Page
    For further information about Andrea: www.andreafella.org

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

  • August 9, 2025

    Saturday 9:30 am - 4:00 pm

    Lovingkindness Meditation Daylong with Kodo Conlin

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by Kodo Conlin
    "A mind well cultivated in metta is supreme in beauty." Join us for a day of metta practice (loving kindness) as we nourish the roots of kindness, compassion, and mental beauty.

    The day will include guided and silent meditations, alternating periods of sitting and walking, and short Dharma talks. Recommended for people who have some meditation experience and have attended an introductory mindfulness meditation course (or similar), as well as for experienced practitioners. Bring lunch.

    This program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you’d like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC’s donation page here.

    Kodo Conlin is an Insight teacher and Zen priest. Currently the co-managing director at IRC, Kodo has lived for many years in temples, monasteries, and Dharma centers, cultivating a heart of practice.

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  • August 9, 2025

    Saturday 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Awareness and Wisdom Integrated Home Retreat with Andrea Fella

    This event is part of a weeklong online retreat, from 3/9/25 - 3/15/25.  Registration is required.  

    For more details about the retreat, see Non-Residential Retreat Events  

    During this week-long online retreat we will explore a relaxed open awareness with an emphasis on exploring qualities of mind, and the attitude towards one's experience. Such an open awareness practice supports both the formal meditation of sitting and walking, as well as awareness of our normal daily activities. The emphasis for this week will be exploring integrating awareness into our whole day and all activities.

    [ Map ] [ Add to Calendar ]

August 10, 2025
  • August 10, 2025

    Sunday 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation with Mei Elliott and Tanya Wiser

    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Mei Elliott and Tanya Wiser
    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

    [ Add to Calendar ]

August 17, 2025
  • August 17, 2025

    Sunday 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation with Mei Elliott

    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Mei Elliott
    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

    [ Add to Calendar ]

August 24, 2025
  • August 24, 2025

    Sunday 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

    Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation with Mei Elliott and Tanya Wiser

    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Mei Elliott and Tanya Wiser
    Mindfulness meditation, also known as insight meditation or vipassana, is a simple technique that concentrates and calms the mind. At the heart of mindfulness meditation is the practice of moment-to-moment observation which cultivates a clear, stable and non-judgmental awareness. While mindfulness practice can be highly effective in helping bring calm and clarity to the pressures of daily life, it is also a spiritual path that gradually dissolves the barriers to the full development of our wisdom and compassion.

    During this introductory course, the basic instructions in mindfulness meditation will be given sequentially, starting with a focus on mindfulness of breathing, followed by mindfulness of the body, emotions, thinking, and the application of mindfulness in daily life.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

    [ Add to Calendar ]

September 5, 2025
  • September 5, 2025

    Friday 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm

    3-day Weekend Non-Residential Retreat with Tanya Wiser

    Friday, September 5 to Sunday, September 7, 2025
    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Tanya Wiser
    Registration required: Apply online

    Schedule:

    • Friday, September 5 : 3:00pm - 8:00pm
    • Saturday, September 6 : 9:00 am - 8:00pm
    • Sunday, September 7: 9:20 am - 2:30pm—We will enjoy lunch at Stafford Park on Sunday while Dharma Sprouts meets.

    Rest the mind, abide moment by moment in embodied presence, and nourish the heart.

    Join us for a weekend of dedicated practice in this non-residential retreat. Together, we will cultivate wise and compassionate mindfulness—in silence and stillness, in community (sangha), and in the flow of daily life.

    This retreat offers a supportive environment to deepen your meditation practice through:
    • Guided and silent sitting meditations
    • Walking meditation
    • Practice discussions
    • Mindfulness integrated into everyday activities
    Whether you're new to meditation or have an established practice, this retreat invites you to explore the richness of present-moment awareness—both on and off the cushion.

    This retreat is offered freely, as a gift to all who attend. There is no fee. At the end of the retreat, there will be an opportunity to offer *dana* (a voluntary donation) to support IMC and the teacher.


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September 6, 2025
  • September 6, 2025

    Saturday 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

    3-day Weekend Non-Residential Retreat with Tanya Wiser

    Friday, September 5 to Sunday, September 7, 2025
    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Tanya Wiser
    Registration required: Apply online

    Schedule:

    • Friday, September 5 : 3:00pm - 8:00pm
    • Saturday, September 6 : 9:00 am - 8:00pm
    • Sunday, September 7: 9:20 am - 2:30pm—We will enjoy lunch at Stafford Park on Sunday while Dharma Sprouts meets.

    Rest the mind, abide moment by moment in embodied presence, and nourish the heart.

    Join us for a weekend of dedicated practice in this non-residential retreat. Together, we will cultivate wise and compassionate mindfulness—in silence and stillness, in community (sangha), and in the flow of daily life.

    This retreat offers a supportive environment to deepen your meditation practice through:
    • Guided and silent sitting meditations
    • Walking meditation
    • Practice discussions
    • Mindfulness integrated into everyday activities
    Whether you're new to meditation or have an established practice, this retreat invites you to explore the richness of present-moment awareness—both on and off the cushion.

    This retreat is offered freely, as a gift to all who attend. There is no fee. At the end of the retreat, there will be an opportunity to offer *dana* (a voluntary donation) to support IMC and the teacher.


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September 7, 2025
  • September 7, 2025

    Sunday 9:20 am - 2:30 pm

    3-day Weekend Non-Residential Retreat with Tanya Wiser

    Friday, September 5 to Sunday, September 7, 2025
    In-person at IMC
    Offered by Tanya Wiser
    Registration required: Apply online

    Schedule:

    • Friday, September 5 : 3:00pm - 8:00pm
    • Saturday, September 6 : 9:00 am - 8:00pm
    • Sunday, September 7: 9:20 am - 2:30pm—We will enjoy lunch at Stafford Park on Sunday while Dharma Sprouts meets.

    Rest the mind, abide moment by moment in embodied presence, and nourish the heart.

    Join us for a weekend of dedicated practice in this non-residential retreat. Together, we will cultivate wise and compassionate mindfulness—in silence and stillness, in community (sangha), and in the flow of daily life.

    This retreat offers a supportive environment to deepen your meditation practice through:
    • Guided and silent sitting meditations
    • Walking meditation
    • Practice discussions
    • Mindfulness integrated into everyday activities
    Whether you're new to meditation or have an established practice, this retreat invites you to explore the richness of present-moment awareness—both on and off the cushion.

    This retreat is offered freely, as a gift to all who attend. There is no fee. At the end of the retreat, there will be an opportunity to offer *dana* (a voluntary donation) to support IMC and the teacher.


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September 13, 2025
  • September 13, 2025

    Saturday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Daylong with Ṭhānissaro Bhikkhu

    Co-sponsored by the Sati Center and students of Ajaan Goeff in the Bay Area
    Hybrid event: In-person at IMC and online via Zoom
    —Register for the Zoom link.
    Offered by: Ajaan Ṭhānissaro

    Bring lunch. There will be an opportunity to donate food for the meal offering to Ajahn Geoff.

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September 20, 2025
  • September 20, 2025

    Saturday 9:30 am - 1:00 pm

    LGBTQIA2S+ Mindfulness Half-Day Retreat with Tanya Wiser

    In-person at IMC
    Offered by: Tanya Wiser
    This half-day retreat offers a welcoming space for those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+. It’s a special opportunity for our community to come together in mindfulness, presence, and shared practice.

    The morning will include guided meditations, a silent sit, a short dharma talk, mindful activity, a group practice discussion, and time to enjoy lunch together in community.

    This is a chance to deepen your meditation practice, connect with fellow LGBTQIA2S+ sangha members, ask questions, and receive the support of spiritual community.

    No registration is required. Please bring your own lunch.

    This retreat is offered freely. If you'd like to support the teacher or the center, you can make a donation through IMC’s donation page .

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October 18, 2025
  • October 18, 2025

    Saturday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

    Daylong with Gil Fronsdal

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: Gil Fronsdal

    Practicing mindfulness on retreat is one of the foundations for maturing insight meditation. The simplicity, silence and support of retreats contribute to letting go of many of the distractions that get in the way of clear seeing. Retreats also are a wonderful environment for developing a continuity of awareness for an extended period.

    This particular daylong retreat is meant for people who already understand the basic practice of mindfulness; no instruction will be given.

    The schedule consists of alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation. At the end of the day Gil gives a Dharma talk. Brief interviews to talk about the practice will be available with Gil. Previous experience is recommended. Bring Lunch.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

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October 25, 2025
  • October 25, 2025

    Saturday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

    Anapanasati—Knowing and Sensing the Breath Daylong with Kim Allen

    in-person at IMC only
    Offered by: Kim Allen  
    Breath meditation is a foundational practice that can be immediately accessible, and yet also unfold to deeper layers over many years. This daylong retreat is an opportunity to immerse in the simplicity and richness of the breath.

    Our day will include guided and silent meditations, walking meditation, and dharma teachings. Classical instructions and guidance on mindfulness of breathing will support the opportunity to strengthen mindfulness, develop concentration, and practice with the IMC community. Individual practice discussions with the teacher will be available.

    This daylong is appropriate for people who are already familiar with mindfulness meditation. Registration is not required. Bring lunch. 

    The program is offered freely with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

    No registration is necessary.


    Kim Allen has been practicing Insight meditation since 2003, and has trained intensively in the U.S. and Asia with cumulative years of silent retreat. She has practiced with primary teacher Gil Fronsdal and other Western teachers, Theravādan monastics, and a few Mahāyāna teachers, and now offers retreats, sutta study, and experiential Dharma engagement. A teacher and author, Kim aims to bring classical Dharma to a modern context and to encourage lay practitioners in fully living a life of Dharma.


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November 1, 2025
  • November 1, 2025

    Saturday 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Sati Center: Guy Armstrong - Burmese & Thai Vipassana Lineages

    Hybrid: In-person at IMC and online via zoom
    Offered by: Guy Armstrong
    Sponsored by the Sati Center, register for the Zoom link
    For more information: See the event listing on the Sati Center website

    Insight meditation (vipassana) has been taught widely in the US since the mid-1970s, when a number of teachers returned from years of retreats in India, Thailand, and Burma. Our senior teachers have practiced and taught in a variety of styles, including those of Mahasi Sayadaw, Ajahn Chah, Dipama, Pa Auk Sayadaw, and others. In this half-day class we’ll explore these teachers and the main styles of vipassana practice that have come from them into our US meditation centers.

    This dana program is freely offered in the spirit of generosity. Any donation you can offer to the teacher and to the Sati Center to continue making these teachings available is greatly appreciated.

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November 8, 2025
  • November 8, 2025

    Saturday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

    Daylong Retreat with Dawn Neal

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: Dawn Neal

    This daylong retreat will include guided meditations, dharma talks, and alternating periods of sitting and walking. Instructions and guidance on mindfulness of breathing, body, emotions, thoughts, and open attention will be provided. This daylong retreat is an opportunity to strengthen mindfulness, develop concentration, practice with the IMC community, and ask a teacher questions. Appropriate for beginners and those with more experience. Bring lunch.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here

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November 22, 2025
  • November 22, 2025

    Saturday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

    Intermediate Mindfulness Meditation Daylong with bruni dávila

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: bruni dávila
    Building on IMC'S five-week Introduction to Mindfulness course, this daylong introduces further instruction for mindfulness practice. Included in the class is the role of concentration, intention, and the five strengths that support mindfulness practice. We will also discuss how to work with the five hindrances to mindfulness practice. Suitable for those who have taken the Introduction to Mindfulness meditation course or the equivalent.

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

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December 13, 2025
  • December 13, 2025

    Saturday 6:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Intensive Daylong with bruni dávila

    In-person only at IMC
    Offered by: bruni dávila

    This is a great opportunity for a full day of immersion in silent Dharma Practice. Practicing mindfulness on retreat is one of the foundations for maturing insight meditation. The simplicity, silence and support of retreats contribute to letting go of many of the distractions that get in the way of clear seeing. Retreats also are a wonderful environment for developing a continuity of awareness for an extended period.

    Fifteen minute Interviews with bruni will be available on a sign up basis.

    You are welcome to come for the entire day or drop in for any part of the retreat. If you come for only part of the retreat, please enter the meditation hall only at the beginning of a scheduled sitting. If you come while a sit is in progress, sit in one of the chairs in the outer hall.

    Bring breakfast and lunch. Light supper provided.

    Schedule:
    6:00 - 7:00 am Sit
    7:00 - 8:15 am Breakfast
    8:15 – 9:00 am Sit
    9:00 – 9:45 am Walk
    9:45 – 10:30 am Sit
    10:30 – 10:45 am Walk
    10:45 – 11:30 am Sit
    11:30 – 12:00 noon Dharma Talk
    12:00 – 1:15 pm Lunch
    1:15 – 2:00 pm Sit
    2:00 – 2:45 pm Walk
    2:45 – 3:30 pm Sit
    3:30 – 4:00 pm Walk
    4:00 – 4:45 pm Sit
    4:45 – 5:00 pm Dharmette
    5:00 – 6:00 pm Supper/tea:
    6:00 – 6:20 pm Temple cleaning
    6:20 – 7:00 pm Sit
    7:00 – 7:30 pm Walk
    7:30 – 8:15 pm Sit
    8:15 – 9:00 pm Dharma Talk

    The program is offered freely, with no registration needed. If you'd like to donate to the teacher or the center, you can visit IMC's donation page here.

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