Registration for this retreat is closed
Both Webinar and Meeting Format (Some program sessions allow you to see and hear only the teacher, while other program sessions will allow you to see and hear the teacher as well as other program participants).
Selfless love, compassion and peace are all boundless heart qualities reflected in the thoughts and actions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His vision of the Beloved Community sought to bring about the loving, connected presence of all beings living together with respect and dignity. In this retreat we will explore together how we can build Beloved Community through our awakened hearts.
Compassion aims at the alleviation of suffering – that of ourselves and each other – and can be fierce as well as tender. During this retreat we will look at the embodiment of fierce compassion as exemplified by Dr. King, and the challenges of fierce compassion both in our own lives and in our current social and global conditions. We will call on our mindfulness practice to support and cultivate clarity of mind and the full embodiment of lovingkindness, compassion, equanimity, and wisdom.
These qualities can serve as a strong refuge of inner strength and clarity, acting as catalysts for awakening within family, community, sangha and the larger global collective.
With clarity of mind and an awakened heart, greater peace and equanimity can guide us into moving on this earth skillfully, as we are called to address the injustices that exist in and around us.
In this online retreat, we will cultivate continuity of mindfulness throughout all daily activities. This integrated practice will support an embodied intimacy with experience as we meditate while sitting, walking, meditating and listening to the teachings of the Buddha. Through this total integration we realize more fully that we are always in relationship with one another.
An optional daily session of mindful movement will be offered by Lissa Edmond.
All are welcome regardless of experience. Come and explore this reality with us.
9 continuing education credits are available for psychologists, social workers and nurses. Please check our CE page for more information.
Please note that you must register before the 6:00 pm Opening Session on Friday, January 15, to be eligible for CEs.
For this course, sliding scale fees are $120, $155, or $300. We also offer a scholarship fee of $60, and no-fee enrollment for those who request a fee-waiver. Our “Pay What You Can Afford" system supports the cultivation of a dynamic and inclusive community and contributes to the health and vibrancy of the sangha. Select the rate of your choice when you register. Email imsonline@dharma.org for more information or to request a no-fee enrollment.
A note on dana (generosity)
Most IMS teachers—like insight teachers around the world—rely on the generosity of students for their livelihood, and receive no compensation from course fees. All IMS online teachers receive a modest dana advance from IMS to guarantee a minimum level of financial support. (Click here to learn more about the dana practice.) There will be an opportunity to offer a contribution to your teachers at the end of this course.
Daily Schedule - all times listed in Eastern Standard Time EST:
Note: all sessions (except breakout meetings, movement and Community Birthday Celebration) will be recorded and posted so you can view it later if you missed one.
Friday, January 15
6 - 7:30 pm - Opening Session
Saturday, January 16
9 - 10 am - Guided Metta Meditation
10:30 - 11:30 am - Beloved Community breakout groups
2 - 3 pm - Guided Compassion Meditation
3:30 - 4:30 - Movement
6:30 - 7:30 pm - Dharma Talk
Sunday, January 17
9 - 10 am - Guided Mudita Meditation
10:30 - 11:30 am - Beloved Community breakout groups
2 - 3 pm - Guided Equanimity Meditation
3:30 - 4:30 pm - Movement
6:30 - 7:30 pm - Dharma Talk
Monday, January 18 - MLK Birthday
9 - 10 am - Guided Meditation
10:15 - 10:45 am - Teacher Reflections
11:30 - 12:30 pm - Beloved Community MLK Birthday Celebration, aspiration & intention guiding us for the year
