Because we do not take registrations over the phone, you must register for CIMC programs online, by mail, or by coming to the office during office hours. See our contact page for details.
Getting Started
We offer introductory instruction in Vipassana (insight) meditation in three different formats to accommodate the different schedules and preferences of beginning students. Please take a look at our For Beginners page for more information.
Wednesday Evening Dharma Talks
Most Wednesday evenings, as part of Wednesday Evening Dharma, a guest teacher or CIMC teacher offers a Dharma talk or discussion on practice.
Practice Groups
Practice Groups meet weekly. Each meeting includes meditation instruction, formal practice, and discussion. The groups offer support for maintaining and deepening our meditation practice and integrating mindfulness into our daily activities. Homework for the practice groups can be found here.
Retreats
The support of the retreat environment encourages continuity of awareness, and can help develop qualities such as confidence, perseverance, mindfulness, concentration and the unfolding of wisdom and compassion. Retreats are held in silence and meals are provided. All retreats include instruction, interviews and/or discussion in addition to meditation practice. There is also a short period of mindful work.
Registrations must be received by noon on Thursday before the retreat. It is possible to register for one day of a two-day retreat. If you are new to retreats at CIMC, it is possible to register for just the first day of a two-day retreat but not just the second day. Please contact the office for more information.
CIMC is unable to provide housing. We can suggest places to stay that are within walking and driving distance of the Center.
Workshops
Workshops offer an opportunity to intensify every aspect of meditation practice. They generally include periods of sitting and walking meditation practice, Dharma talks, and question and answer periods. They are designed for people relatively new to Vipassana as well as people with extensive experience. Everyone is welcome. Please bring a vegetarian bag lunch or plan to go out to eat in the neighborhood.
Drop-In Programs
CIMC Drop-In Programs offer many opportunities for beginners and experienced practitioners alike to learn about insight meditation, to deepen their practice and to participate at the center. We do not take registrations for Drop-In Programs.
Special Events
Please join us for special events throughout the year including our Thanksgiving Gratitude Gathering, New Year’s Eve program, our annual Bereavement Ceremony, Benefits, community gatherings, and more. Information is available on our calendar.
Benefactor Rate
CIMC is committed to keeping program fees as low as possible, yet our current fees cover only 40% of what it costs to run the Center each year. When you register for any of our programs we invite you, if you are able, to choose “Benefactor Rate”, which more accurately reflects the true cost of offering the teachings. Your doing so provides support to many others in the community.
Work Exchange and Scholarships
CIMC is committed to making the Buddha’s teachings available to everyone regardless of financial circumstances. For those on a limited income, we invite you to join our Work Exchange program or to request a scholarship. We ask that you make scholarship requests at least two weeks in advance of any program. Please contact the office for more information.