Spirit Rock Meditation Center is dedicated to the teachings of the Buddha as presented in the vipassana tradition. The practice of mindful awareness, called Insight Meditation, is at the heart of all the activities at Spirit Rock. We provide silent meditation retreats, as well as classes, trainings, and Dharma study opportunities for new and experienced students from diverse backgrounds with a willingness to develop their own practice.
IMS’s Forest Refuge has continuously hosted experienced meditators since 2003. Its program is specifically designed to encourage sustained, longer-term retreat practice – a key component in the transmission of Buddhism from Asia to the West.
Within a harmonious and secluded environment, meditators can nurture the highest aspiration for liberation. In consultation with visiting insight meditation teachers, a program of training in one or more Theravada Buddhist practices is created for each participant, allowing the continuing unfolding of deeper levels of wisdom and compassion. A personal retreat here strengthens practice faith, confidence and self-reliance.
In recent years, prominent medical institutions such as Harvard Medical School and The Mayo Clinic have scientifically validated what practitioners in the East have known for over 5,000 years: Yoga and Meditation reduce stress, enhances clarity of mind, increase fitness and help in the management of chronic health conditions.
Newly published studies from Norway suggest that a comprehensive Yoga program rapidly produces internal changes on a genetic level! Yoga and Meditation, which were once considered to be fringe and esoteric practices, are now mainstream and expanding rapidly into virtually every corner of society. Research proves that a regular practice has been known to decrease anxiety, fatigue, depression, high blood pressure and virtually every other medical and psychological condition.
Within corporations, Universities and school districts, medical establishments and throughout the entertainment industry, Yoga and Meditation are being praised, and practiced as a means to peace of mind, well-being, and even success in one’s endeavors.
Whole Universe is proud to present a select number of Yoga and Meditation practitioners, retreats and spas, and though it is by no means a complete list, we believe in these men and women who can offer you a window in to this world.