Insight Meditation Society (IMS) is a religious non-profit organization. Founded by a small group of young meditation instructors, its popular Retreat Center in Barre Massachusetts has offered a variety of meditation courses since 1976. Each year, the center presents 30+ courses that last between two days and three months. Steeped in the teachings of early Buddhism, all courses offer practice and guidance in insight and/ or loving-kindness meditation. Most programs are tailored to new and experienced meditators alike and all are offered on a sliding scale. Scholarships and special payment plans for individuals between the ages of 18 and 26 provide additional means for funding.

IMS’s Retreat Center courses run on a relatively strict schedule. Participants engage in silent seated and walking meditation and are also given opportunities to practice mindfulness during commonplace activities such as cooking or cleaning. Three vegetarian meals are provided daily, as well as various talks on Buddhist teachings. Some retreats include optional yoga and others are tailored to diverse populations such as people of color, adolescents, young adults, and LGBTQ.

Similar to its affiliate, the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies, IMS does not provide its retreat teachers with financial compensation. Program participants have the option of giving Dāna (donations) to their teachers in order to help provide them with an income. IMS’s website is comprehensive and highly accessible. Directions to the center are provided as well as contact information. See http://www.dharma.org for more information.