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Insight Meditation

Western Insight Meditation communities rooted in Theravāda, emphasizing mindfulness and accessibility for laypeople.

Insight Meditation in the West grew from teachers who trained in Asia — including Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, Jack Kornfield, and others — and founded centers such as IMS and Spirit Rock. The style draws on Burmese and Thai methods while adapting language and retreat formats for contemporary lay practitioners.

Programs often include mindfulness of breath and body, mettā (loving-kindness), and Dharma talks connecting classical teachings to psychological insight. Many urban “insight” sanghas offer weekly sits without requiring monastic affiliation.

Practices

Mindfulness retreats
Silent residential retreats with sitting, walking, and interviews.
Mettā practice
Cultivation of loving-kindness toward self and others.
Dharma study groups
Weekly community sits and discussion for householders.