Insight Meditation South Bay

Half-Day Meditation | Fully Aware | Los Altos, CA
2023-12-16 13:30 - 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: Cultivating Full Awareness
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Register for an online course with Shaila Catherine | Mindfulness of the Body
2024-01-17 | Online
Mindfulness of the Body
Starts January 17

Mindfulness of Body

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Identity View
2024-01-20 01:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Identity View
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Skeptical Doubt
2024-02-17 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Skeptical Doubt
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Rituals and Conventions
2024-03-16 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Rites, Rituals, and Conventions
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Special Guest Teacher: Bhikkhu Sambodhi
2024-04-13 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Bhikkhu Sambodhi
Topic: The Five Spiritual Powers: How to grow the essential faculties of the mind in harmony with one’s “nature” and in balance with each other.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process. Monastics may register without cost using the coupon code: 0$monastic.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Concentration, Jhana and Breath Retreat | in California
2024-05-07 - 2024-05-17 | Redwood Glen Retreat Center, 100 Wright Drive, Loma Mar, CA, 94021
Registration has closed.
Concentration, Jhana, and the 16 Steps of Mindfulness with Breathing
a 10-night Meditation Retreat in California
led by Shaila Catherine
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 – Friday, May 17, 2024

The retreat begins with registration from 2:30 – 3:30 pm on Tuesday, May 7. The retreat ends at 11:45 am on Friday, May 17 followed by an optional lunch for those who wish to stay for the community meal.
Partial attendance is possible, but it must begin on the first day of the retreat and priority will be given to those registering for the full retreat.
This retreat will utilize the breath as the primary meditation object and will encourage the development of meditative skills that lead to deep concentration (samadhi) and insight (vipassana). Daily group instructions will focus on the sixteen steps in the Anapanasati Sutta as a route to jhana and/or liberating insight.
Meetings with the teacher in small groups and one-on-one dialogs will tailor the practices to meet the needs and interests of individual students. Some students may choose to emphasize concentration practice throughout the retreat with the intention to develop the jhanas; others may emphasize vipassana or practice both concentration and insight in conjunction with mindfulness of breathing.
This retreat offers a special opportunity to train in concentration and jhana practices with personal guidance from Shaila Catherine. It is one of the very few retreats each year in which Shaila systematically guides students to establish jhana by working step by step with the Anapanasati Sutta. See our Concentration and Jhana FAQ page for more information about developing concentration and the absorption states of jhana.
This silent retreat is structured with alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation, dhamma teachings, and teacher consultations.
Prior to the retreat, please read the first half of Focused and Fearless by Shaila Catherine, and the Anapanasati Sutta. You may download the sutta at: https://suttacentral.net/mn118/en/bodhi
SITE FEATURES: This retreat will be held at Redwood Glen, a lovely retreat center nestled in a redwood forest between La Honda and Pescadero. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Pescadero State Beach, and about a 1-hour drive from either the San Francisco Airport or the San Jose Airport. This retreat center is convenient to reach, and yet offers a secluded and intimate environment for deep meditation practice. You will enjoy the benefits of natural beauty, a spacious meditation hall, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and access to walking trails. The center is nestled in a majestic redwood forest, adjacent to county parks and open space preserves. Just a few minutes’ walk from the meditation hall you will find yourself strolling along creek side paths, surrounded by the powerful serenity of the redwood forest.
COVID PRECAUTIONS: Please read our page on COVID Measures and Compliance Requirements. This will explain the measures we are taking to prevent the spread of illness, and the actions that will be required of retreat participants.
Register now! Space is limited.
The retreat begins with registration at 2:30 pm on Tuesday, May 7; it ends with an optional noon lunch on Friday, May 17. Participants who are traveling from afar might need to check flight times carefully, and if necessary arrange to stay in a hotel the night before the retreat. Early-arrival accommodations are not available at this retreat center, and we must depart shortly after lunch on the closing day.
TO REGISTER: Please use the online form at the link below to submit your registration and waiver forms.

Registration Form: April 27. Registration has closed.

This form will take approximately 20 minutes to fill out. Upon completion of the form you will receive an email with details for completing your payment. You have the option of paying the non-refundable deposit of $250 or the full retreat payment either by mailing a check to the registrar or by making a Zelle bank transfer. The address and account information for making this payment will be included in the registration confirmation email.

Details of our cancellation policy are on the registration form.

The retreat facility is somewhat handicapped accessible. Accommodations include comfortable hotel-style rooms with ensuite baths, and a few dorm-style cabins. RV camping with hook ups are available. See the application form for accommodation details.
COST: 10 nights (includes accommodation and meals), plus a donation to the teachers at the end of retreat.

Full retreat for single occupancy: 10 nights is $3,000 – $2,400 sliding scale (estimated actual cost for single is $2600)
Double occupancy sliding scale: $2500 – $2100 (estimated actual cost for double occupancy is $2300)
Camping in personal tent or RV sliding scale: $2300 – $1800 (estimated actual cost for camping is $2000)

Fee covers only accommodations, food, and basic administrative expenses. There will be an opportunity at the end of the retreat to make a donation to the teacher.
The estimated actual per-person cost if we had used a fixed rate is $2600 for a single room, $2300 for a shared room, and $2000 for camping. By selecting an amount above the estimated actual cost, your generosity supports those who need to select a lower rate to attend the retreat. Selecting an amount below the estimated actual cost is equivalent to receiving a partial scholarship.
The sliding scale will allow most scholarship needs to be self-managed. If you need additional scholarship support to attend, consider applying for a scholarship through https://opendharmafoundation.org, or contact our registrar for assistance through IMSB/Bodhi-Retreats.
PARTIAL ATTENDANCE may be arranged for a stay of at least 3 nights, but must begin on the first day of retreat, and priority is given to full retreat participants. We strongly encourage attendance at the full retreat. Applicants for partial attendance will be placed on a wait list which will be reviewed approximately 2 months prior to the retreat. Partial attendees will likely be housed in double occupancy rooms unless single rooms remain available 1 month prior to the retreat. You may contact the registrar to determine if single rooms for partial attendance are available.
The rates for partial attendance below are listed as single occupancy. Take 15% off the single rate for double accommodations, and take 20% off for camping.

3 nights (Tuesday–Friday) is $1200
4 nights (Tuesday–Saturday) is $1,500
5 nights (Tuesday–Sunday) is $1800
6 nights (Tuesday–Monday) is $2100
7-9 nights is same as full retreat: single $3000 – $2400 sliding scale

DANA: Compensation for the teacher is not included in the registration price. There will be an opportunity to offer donations to the teacher at the end of the retreat.
QUESTIONS?: meditation3bodhicourses
Co-Sponsored by Bodhi Retreats and Insight Meditation South Bay

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Sensual Desire
2024-06-01 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Sensual Desire
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

ONLINE SUTTA STUDY RETREAT: Living Without Enemies
2024-06-28 - 2024-06-30 | Online
Living Without Enemies
A Weekend ONLINE AT-HOME Sutta Study Retreat
with Shaila Catherine
June 28 – 30, 2024
The Buddha said, “The world may quarrel with me, but I do not quarrel with the world.” How can we live our lives without hate—without making anyone into an enemy?
This program will use both sutta study and meditation practice to explore the Buddha’s teachings on anger. We will examine how untrained minds meet unpleasant experiences with irritation, blame, prejudice, and hatred; and how trained minds abide at ease in the face of difficulties. The Discourses of the Buddha offer us empowering stories, similies, instructions, and teachings that can help us understand and overcome our own aversive tendencies. Through meditative development we learn to meet pain, disagreement, and even abuse, with a balanced, kind, and wise attention; we free the mind from the underlying tendency to hate.
Please join us as we deepen our practice together through a program of live video conferences with Shaila Catherine. The online meetings will include guided meditations, Dharma talks, and question and answer sessions.
Registration is required. Scroll down to choose a ticket level. Registration may close a few days prior to the retreat, so don’t wait to the last minute!
More information and a link to join the zoom video conferences will be emailed to registrants a few days prior to the retreat.
This retreat is appropriate for all levels of meditators—beginning, intermediate, and experienced practitioners.

RETREAT SCHEDULE (Times are given in Pacific Time, San Francisco)

Friday
4:30 – 6:00 PM– Opening Session – Guided Meditation and Dhamma Talk

Saturday
8:00 – 8:45 AM – Morning Meditation
11:00 – 1:00 AM – Session One
3:00 – 5:00 PM – Session Two

Sunday
8:00 – 8:45 AM – Morning Meditation
11:00 – 1:00 AM – Session One
3:00 – 5:00 PM – Session Two

RETREAT SCHEDULE (Times are given in Eastern Time, Boston)

Friday
7:30 – 9:00 PM – Opening Session – Guided Meditation and Dhamma Talk

Saturday
11:00 – 11:45 AM – Morning Meditation
2:00 – 4:00 PM – Session One
6:00 – 8:00 PM – Session Two

Sunday
11:00 – 11:45 AM – Morning Meditation
2:00 – 4:00 PM – Session One
6:00 – 8:00 PM – Session Two

Visit our Founding Teacher page for biography and photograph of the teacher.
Questions?: For more information contact sit
Co-sponsored by Bodhi-Retreats and Insight Meditation South Bay

Registration: Registration is required for this course. Registration fees are non-refundable. To register, select an option under the Tickets heading at the bottom of this page.
Course Fee: The non-refundable registration fee is based on a sliding scale of $660 to $260. The lower end of the sliding scale is intended for those with limited financial means. If you pay at the mid to high range of the sliding scale, your generosity supports those with limited income to attend our programs, and also supports the teacher. Our teacher relies upon the generosity of students for her livelihood, so we encourage you to choose the highest level that is appropriate for your economic situation. Thank you for your generosity! The ticketing process will give you the option of paying by credit card, Pay Pal, or by mailing a check.
Teacher Dana: Donations to support the teacher are much appreciated. Opportunities to give are shown on our Donate page. The Standard, Base, and Scholarship Rates do not include Teacher Dana. You may include teacher dana in your registration fees by choosing a higher ticket option, or you may make a separate donation to teacher dana at the end of the retreat.
Scholarship Assistance: A scholarship rate of a 30% discount is offered for those with financial need; you may use the code less30% to self-select this scholarship. Full scholarships are offered to monastics. For inquiries, contact the registrar at meditate.
Tax Deductions: The base, standard, and scholarship rates do not include teacher dana and are not tax deductible. By selecting a ticket level above the base rate, you will be contributing to teacher dana and the amount above the base rate will be considered a voluntary tax deductible Teacher Dana contribution.
Cancellation Policy: All fees and payments are non-refundable. If you cancel participation in a course, and the registrar is notified prior to the start of the first meeting, your registration fee will be converted into a voucher creditable towards the fee for either a future IMSB or Bodhi-Retreats program. Vouchers must be used within one year of the initial course start date, and may be transferred to only one future course. Cancellations that occur after the start of the first meeting are not eligible for the voucher credit and are non-refundable.
Mailing List
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Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Anger and Ill Will
2024-08-10 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Anger and Ill Will
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Refined Meditation States
2024-09-14 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Refined Meditation States
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Launch Event — Let’s Get Together!
2024-09-23 19:00 - 21:00 | St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Edwards Hall, 2094 Grant Road , Mountain View , CA, 94040, United States
The Journey of Practice: Launching Our Monday Meditation Group
With Shaila Catherine
Insight Meditation South Bay (IMSB) is delighted to announce the restarting of its popular Monday meditation sessions.
We can’t wait to see you at our inaugural gathering!
Monday, September 23, 2024. 7:00 PM — 9:00 PM
Edwards Hall at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church
2094 Grant Rd, Mountain View, CA, 94040
Help us celebrate the occasion with tea, treats and an evening of meditation, teachings, and discussion. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, IMSB hosted one of the South Bay’s most popular in-person weekly meditation programs. We’re thrilled to be bringing it back to the community. The new program will feature Shaila Catherine and guest teachers exploring meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhism, and how to bring these qualities and practices into our everyday lives. We’re excited to host ongoing speaker series, meditation courses, and experiential events. Keep an eye out on our website for event details.
Evening Schedule
6:45 Doors Open. Tea and Treats
7:00 Ice Breaker
7:10 Dhamma Talk: Shaila Catherine Speaks About Her Journey Of Practice
7:40 Sitting Meditation
8:10 Group Discussion On Our Journey Of Practice
8:30 Metta Meditation
8:35 Tea And Treats, Social Time, Clean Up
No registration required—everyone is welcome.

Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The evening includes silent or guided meditation and teachings from our principal teacher Shaila Catherine or guest teachers.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open at least partially during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided; you may bring a cushion or back support to increase your comfort while sitting.
www.imsb.org

Awaken the Boundless Heart
2024-09-30 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-10-07 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-10-14 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-10-21 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-10-28 19:00 - 20:30 | St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Edwards Hall, 2094 Grant Road , Mountain View , CA, 94040, United States
A series that will open the heart and bring balance in relationships.
with Shaila Catherine
This series will nurture the development of four profound qualities of heart: loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. These four qualities express a powerful and immeasurable intention of kindness toward ourselves and all beings. They are traditionally called the Divine Abodes (Brahma Viharas). When these qualities are well developed the heart-mind will be liberated from ill will, cruelty, envy, expectation and demand—one will dwell with a pure “divine” perception of all things.
September 30 — Cultivating Loving Kindness
October 7 — Cultivating Compassion
October 14 — Cultivating Joy
October 21 — Cultivating Equanimity
October 28 — Integrating Heart Practices into Life

Location:
St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church
Edwards Hall
2094 Grant Rd.
Mountain View, CA 94040
Teachers:
Please visit these pages for biographies and photos of our principal teacher, Shaila Catherine, and guest speakers.
Usual Schedule (subject to change):
6:45 pm — Doors Open — arrive early to check-in
7:00 pm — Meditation
7:40 pm — Teachings and Discussion
8:30 pm — Closing and Informal Connections
8:45 pm — Departure
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The evening includes silent or guided meditation and teachings from our principal teacher Shaila Catherine or guest teachers.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open at least partially during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided; you may bring a cushion or back support to increase your comfort while sitting.

Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process. This code will reduce any ticket option by 50%. If you cannot make any financial contribution to support the event or the teacher, come anyway—you will be welcome at the door.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. Each ticket reserves your space for one evening in this series.
Please purchase the number of tickets that correspond to the number of evenings you wish to attend in this series. For example, if you can only attend 3 evenings, please click the + button up to number 3. If you wish to attend the full series, please click the + button up to number 5. By clicking up to 5 tickets you have essentially bought a pass for the full series. In this way, our ticket options give you the option to select both the rate you wish to offer, and the number of evenings you wish to attend.
IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time. If attendees arrive without a reservation, they will be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Formless Attainments
2024-10-05 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Formless Attainments
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Retreat in Georgia | Insights into Emptiness
2024-11-07 - 2024-11-17 | Calvin Center, 13550 Woolsey Road, Hampton, GA, 30228
Insights into Emptiness: Meditations on the Six Senses
A 10-day meditation retreat with Shaila Catherine
November 7 – 17, 2024
at Calvin Center, 13550 Woolsey Road, Hampton, GA 30228
(near Atlanta, GA)

The retreat begins with registration from 2:30 – 4:00 pm on Nov 7. The retreat ends around noon, before lunch on November 17.
Partial attendance may be possible, but it must begin on the first day of the retreat and priority will be given to those registering for the full retreat.
This retreat will develop insight meditation practices using the structure of the six sense bases.
We will cultivate mindfulness of sensory experience, and contemplate the impermanence, unsatisfactoriness, and not-self characteristics in contact with seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, touching, and mental activities. By clearly seeing the emptiness of lived phenomena, habitual patterns fall away, the causes of suffering cease, and there can be a genuine awakening—a realization of nibbana.
This silent retreat is structured with alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation, dhamma teachings, and teacher consultations. It is intended for meditators who are already familiar with mindfulness based practice, and have previously attended at least one week long silent residential insight meditation retreat.
SITE FEATURES: This retreat will be held at the Calvin Center in Georgia. It is a lovely and quiet retreat center in the country side that boasts a small lake and opportunities for canoeing when weather permits. It is conveniently situated about 45-minutes from Atlanta’s airport. You will enjoy the benefits of natural beauty, a spacious meditation hall, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, access to walking trails, and the chance for mindful canoeing.
COVID PRECAUTIONS: Please read our page on COVID Measures and Compliance Requirements. This will explain the measures we are taking to prevent the spread of illness, and the actions that will be required of retreat participants.
Register now! Space is limited.
Participants who are traveling from afar might need to check flight times carefully, and if necessary arrange to stay in a hotel the night before the retreat. Early-arrival accommodations are not available at this retreat center, and we must depart shortly after noon on the closing day.
TO REGISTER: Please use the online form at the link below to submit your registration and waiver forms.

Registration Form: https://www.imsb.org/form-calvin2024/

This form will take approximately 20 minutes to fill out. Upon completion of the form you will receive an email with details for completing your payment. You have the option of paying the non-refundable deposit of $250 or the full retreat payment either by mailing a check to the registrar or by making a Zelle bank transfer. The address and account information for making this payment will be included in the registration confirmation email.

Details of our cancellation policy are on the registration form.

The retreat facility is somewhat handicapped accessible. Accommodations include comfortable hotel-style rooms with ensuite baths, and dorm-style cabins and lodges. See the application form for accommodation details.
COST: 10 nights (includes accommodation and meals), plus a donation to the teachers at the end of retreat.

Full retreat for single occupancy: 10 nights is $3,000 – $2,200 sliding scale (estimated actual cost for single is $2500)
Double occupancy sliding scale: $2500 – $1900 (estimated actual cost for double occupancy is $2200)

Fee covers only accommodations, food, and basic administrative expenses. There will be an opportunity at the end of the retreat to make a donation to the teacher.
The estimated actual per-person cost if we had used a fixed rate is $2500 for a single room, and $2200 for a shared room. By selecting an amount above the estimated actual cost, your generosity supports those who need to select a lower rate to attend the retreat. Selecting an amount below the estimated actual cost is equivalent to receiving a partial scholarship.
The sliding scale will allow most scholarship needs to be self-managed. If you need additional scholarship support to attend, consider applying for a scholarship through https://opendharmafoundation.org, or contact our registrar for assistance through IMSB/Bodhi-Retreats.
PARTIAL ATTENDANCE may be arranged for a stay of at least 3 nights, but must begin on the first day of retreat, and priority is given to full retreat participants. We strongly encourage attendance at the full retreat. Applicants for partial attendance will be placed on a wait list which will be reviewed approximately 2 months prior to the retreat. We cannot guarantee single rooms for partial attendees. You may contact the registrar to determine if single rooms for partial attendance are available approximately two months prior to the retreat.
The rates for partial attendance below are listed as single occupancy. The mid-point on each sliding scale is our estimated actual cost. Take 18% off any point on the sliding scale for double accommodations.

3 nights is $1100 – $900 sliding scale
4 nights is $1,300 – $1100 sliding scale
5 nights is $1,600 – $1300 sliding scale
6 nights is $1,900 – $1500 sliding scale
7-9 nights is same as full retreat: single $3000 – $2200 sliding scale

DANA: Compensation for the teacher is not included in the registration price. There will be an opportunity to offer donations to the teacher at the end of the retreat.
QUESTIONS?: meditation1bodhicourses
Co-Sponsored by Bodhi Retreats and Insight Meditation South Bay

Doorways to Insight
2024-11-18 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-11-25 19:00 - 20:30 | St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Edwards Hall, 2094 Grant Road , Mountain View , CA, 94040, United States
Discovering liberation through the ordinary
with Shaila Catherine and Maria Straatman
You know everything changes, so why do you suffer when possessions are lost, relationships end, or friends die?
Each day, we experience changing sensory impressions; we cannot control what happens, and we have never succeeded in attaining lasting happiness from transient phenomena. Insight meditation is oriented toward seeing three characteristics—the impermanence, unsatisfactoriness, and emptiness of experience.
In some ways, these are ordinary and obvious insights. Yet, these simple truths have the profound power to uproot our deepest misperceptions. When we see them clearly, we do not cling; when not clinging, the mind, body and heart are liberated. This series will explore the nature of wisdom, perception and liberating insights with an emphasis on what are called the three characteristics, or three doorways to Nibbana.
November 18 — Insight into Impermanence with Maria Straatman
November 25 — Insight into Unsatisfactoriness with Shaila Catherine
December 2 — Insight into Emptiness with Shaila Catherine
December 9 — Insight Knowledge with Shaila Catherine
December 16 — Experience of Insight with Shaila Catherine

Location:
St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church
Edwards Hall
2094 Grant Rd.
Mountain View, CA 94040
Teachers:
Please visit these pages for biographies and photos of our principal teacher, Shaila Catherine, and guest speakers.
Usual Schedule (subject to change):
6:45 pm — Doors Open — arrive early to check-in
7:00 pm — Meditation
7:40 pm — Teachings and Discussion
8:30 pm — Closing and Informal Connections
8:45 pm — Departure
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The evening includes silent or guided meditation and teachings from our principal teacher Shaila Catherine or guest teachers.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open at least partially during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided; you may bring a cushion or back support to increase your comfort while sitting.

Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process. This code will reduce any ticket option by 50%. If you cannot make any financial contribution to support the event or the teacher, come anyway—you will be welcome at the door.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. Each ticket reserves your space for one evening in this series.
Please purchase the number of tickets that correspond to the number of evenings you wish to attend in this series. For example, if you can only attend 3 evenings, please click the + button up to number 3. If you wish to attend the full series, please click the + button up to number 5. By clicking up to 5 tickets you have essentially bought a pass for the full series. In this way, our ticket options give you the option to select both the rate you wish to offer, and the number of evenings you wish to attend.
IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time. If attendees arrive without a reservation, they will be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Conceit
2024-12-07 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Conceit
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Retreat in California | Insights Into Emptiness
2025-01-08 14:30 - 2025-01-16 13:00 | Redwood Glen Retreat Center, 100 Wright Drive, Loma Mar, CA, 94021
Insights into Emptiness: Meditations on the Six Senses
An 8-day meditation retreat with Shaila Catherine
January 8 – 16, 2025
at Redwood Glen Retreat Center in Loma Mar, CA
The retreat begins with registration from 2:30 – 4:00 pm on January 8. The retreat ends around noon, before lunch on January 16.
This retreat will develop insight meditation practices using the structure of the six sense bases.
We will cultivate mindfulness of sensory experience, and contemplate the impermanence, unsatisfactoriness, and not-self characteristics in contact with seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, touching, and mental activities. By clearly seeing the emptiness of lived phenomena, habitual patterns fall away, the causes of suffering cease, and there can be a genuine awakening—a realization of nibbana.
This silent retreat is structured with alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation, dhamma teachings, and teacher consultations. It is intended for meditators who are already familiar with mindfulness based practice, and have previously attended at least one week long silent residential insight meditation retreat.
SITE FEATURES: This retreat will be held at Redwood Glen, a lovely retreat center nestled in a redwood forest between La Honda and Pescadero. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Pescadero State Beach, and about a 1-hour drive from either the San Francisco Airport or the San Jose Airport. This retreat center is convenient to reach, and yet offers a secluded and intimate environment for deep meditation practice. You will enjoy the benefits of natural beauty, a spacious meditation hall, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and access to walking trails. The center is nestled in a majestic redwood forest, adjacent to county parks and open space preserves. Just a few minutes’ walk from the meditation hall you will find yourself strolling along creek side paths, surrounded by the powerful serenity of the redwood forest.
COVID PRECAUTIONS: Participants will be required to take a rapid-antigen test prior to arriving, and depart if symptoms of illness arise.
Register now! Space is limited.
The retreat begins with registration at 2:30 pm on January 8; it ends with an optional noon lunch on January 16. Participants who are traveling from afar might need to check flight times carefully, and possibly arrange to stay in a hotel the night before the retreat. Early-arrival accommodations are not available at this retreat center, and we must depart shortly after lunch on the closing day.
TO REGISTER: Please use the online form at the link below to submit your registration and waiver forms.

Registration Form: https://www.imsb.org/form-rg2025/

This form will take approximately 20 minutes to fill out. Upon completion of the form you will receive an email with details for completing your payment. You have the option of paying the non-refundable deposit of $250 or the full retreat payment either by mailing a check to the registrar or by making a Zelle bank transfer. The address and account information for making this payment will be included in the registration confirmation email.

Details of our cancellation policy are on the registration form.

The retreat facility is somewhat handicapped accessible. Accommodations include comfortable hotel-style rooms with ensuite baths, and a few dorm-style cabins. Tent camping and RV camping with hook ups are available (but it can be cold in January). See the application form for accommodation details.
COST: 10 nights (includes accommodation and meals), plus a donation to the teachers at the end of retreat.

Full retreat for single occupancy: 8 nights is $2600 – $2200 sliding scale (estimated actual cost for single is $2400)
Double occupancy sliding scale: $2500 – $2100 (estimated actual cost for double occupancy is $2300)
Camping in personal tent or RV sliding scale: $1800 – $1400 (estimated actual cost for camping is $1600)

Fee covers only accommodations, food, and basic administrative expenses. There will be an opportunity at the end of the retreat to make a donation to the teacher.
The estimated actual per-person cost if we had used a fixed rate is $2400 for a single room, $2300 for a shared room, and $1600 for camping. By selecting an amount above the estimated actual cost, your generosity supports those who need to select a lower rate to attend the retreat. Selecting an amount below the estimated actual cost is equivalent to receiving a partial scholarship.
The sliding scale will allow most scholarship needs to be self-managed. If you need additional scholarship support to attend, consider applying for a scholarship through https://opendharmafoundation.org, or contact our registrar for assistance through IMSB/Bodhi-Retreats.
PARTIAL ATTENDANCE may be arranged for a stay of 4 nights, but must begin on the first day of retreat, and priority is given to full retreat participants. We strongly encourage attendance at the full retreat. Applicants for partial attendance will be placed on a wait list which will be reviewed approximately 2 months prior to the retreat. Partial attendees will likely be housed in double occupancy rooms unless single rooms remain available 1 month prior to the retreat. You may contact the registrar to determine if single rooms for partial attendance are available.
The rates for partial attendance below are listed as single occupancy. Take 15% off the single rate for double accommodations, and take 20% off for camping.

4 nights (Wednesday–Sunday) is $1,600
5-8 nights is same as full retreat: single $2600 – $2200 sliding scale

DANA: Compensation for the teacher is not included in the registration price. There will be an opportunity to offer donations to the teacher at the end of the retreat.
QUESTIONS?: meditation3bodhicourses
Co-Sponsored by Bodhi Retreats and Insight Meditation South Bay

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Restlessness
2025-01-25 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Restlessness
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Online Sitting & Q&A with Sit-Heads
2025-02-13 16:00 - 18:00 | Online
On Thursday February 13, starting at 7 PM ET/ 4 PM PT, Shaila Catherine is taking part in an online conversation and open Q&A.
It’s free and donation-based. Come join us! You can register here.
We’ll start with some silent meditation, then have our chat. This event is hosted by Sit-Heads Meditation Club, “a serious meditation group for non-serious people.”

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Ten Fetters: Focus on Ignorance
2025-02-22 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: The Ten Fetters: Focus on Ignorance
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Focus on Good Friends
2025-03-22 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: Dawn of the Liberating Path: Focus on the Role of Good Friends
The Buddha teaches that, just as the dawn precedes the rising sun, developing certain qualities prepares us for the path of liberation. Seven of these qualities are highlighted in the Samyutta Nikaya (SN 45:49-90): good friends, virtue, desire, completeness of mind, view, diligence, and careful attention. This monthly Saturday series will explore these qualities and how they support and prepare us to engage and practice fully in a liberating path.
March 22, 2025 — Good Friends
April 26, 2025 — Virtue
May 31, 2025 — Desire
June 28, 2025 — Completeness of Mind
July 26, 2025 — View
August 23, 2025 — Diligence
September 27, 2025 — Careful Attention
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Spiritual Experience & Aspiration: Bold Talk On Awakening
2025-04-11 - 2025-04-13 | Online
A Weekend ONLINE AT-HOME Retreat
with Shaila Catherine
April 11 – 13, 2025
Do you aspire for awakening? Do you ponder spiritual experiences that have occurred in your practice?
This program will provide an opportunity for meditation practice along with frank and bold discussions on themes of awakening, and spiritual aspirations, experiences, or meditative attainments.
Please join us as we deepen our practice together through a program of live video meetings with Shaila Catherine. The online meetings will include guided meditations, Dharma talks, question and answer sessions, and discussion groups.
Registration is required. Scroll down to choose a ticket level. Registration will close a few days prior to the retreat, so don’t wait to the last minute!
More information and a link to join the zoom video meetings will be emailed to registrants a few days prior to the retreat.
This retreat is appropriate for experienced practitioners.

RETREAT SCHEDULE (Times are given in Pacific Time, San Francisco)

Friday
4:30 – 6:00 PM– Opening Session – Guided Meditation and Dhamma Talk

Saturday
8:00 – 8:45 AM – Morning Meditation
11:00 – 1:00 AM – Session One
3:00 – 5:00 PM – Session Two

Sunday
8:00 – 8:45 AM – Morning Meditation
11:00 – 1:00 AM – Session One
3:00 – 5:00 PM – Session Two

RETREAT SCHEDULE (Times are given in Eastern Time, Boston)

Friday
7:30 – 9:00 PM – Opening Session – Guided Meditation and Dhamma Talk

Saturday
11:00 – 11:45 AM – Morning Meditation
2:00 – 4:00 PM – Session One
6:00 – 8:00 PM – Session Two

Sunday
11:00 – 11:45 AM – Morning Meditation
2:00 – 4:00 PM – Session One
6:00 – 8:00 PM – Session Two

Visit our Founding Teacher page for biography and photograph of the teacher.
Questions?: For more information contact sit
Co-sponsored by Bodhi-Retreats and Insight Meditation South Bay

Registration: Registration is required for this course. Registration fees are non-refundable. To register, select an option under the Tickets heading at the bottom of this page.
Course Fee: The non-refundable registration fee is based on a sliding scale of $700 to $260. The lower end of the sliding scale is intended for those with limited financial means. If you pay at the mid to high range of the sliding scale, your generosity supports those with limited income to attend our programs, and also supports the teacher. Our teacher relies upon the generosity of students for her livelihood, so we encourage you to choose the highest level that is appropriate for your economic situation. Thank you for your generosity! The ticketing process will give you the option of paying by credit card, Pay Pal, or by mailing a check.
Teacher Dana: Donations to support the teacher are much appreciated. Opportunities to give are shown on our Donate page. The Standard, Base, and Scholarship Rates do not include Teacher Dana. You may include teacher dana in your registration fees by choosing a higher ticket option, or you may make a separate donation to teacher dana at the end of the retreat.
Scholarship Assistance: A scholarship rate of a 30% discount is offered for those with financial need; you may use the code less30% to self-select this scholarship. Full scholarships are offered to monastics. For inquiries, contact the registrar at meditate.
Tax Deductions: The basic, standard, and scholarship rates do not include teacher dana and are not tax deductible. By selecting a ticket level above the base rate, you will be contributing to teacher dana and the amount above the base rate will be considered a voluntary tax deductible Teacher Dana contribution.
Cancellation Policy: All fees and payments are non-refundable. If you cancel participation in a course, and the registrar is notified prior to the start of the first meeting, your registration fee will be converted into a voucher creditable towards the fee for either a future IMSB or Bodhi-Retreats program. Vouchers must be used within one year of the initial course start date, and may be transferred to only one future course. Cancellations that occur after the start of the first meeting are not eligible for the voucher credit and are non-refundable.
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Sunday Sitting and Talk Online
2025-04-20 | Online
Shaila Catherine will offer the guided meditation and dhamma teachings at this online meditation group hosted by Sangha Live.
Topic: Protecting the Mind
Description:
The encounter with sensory experiences can lead to insight and calm, or reactivity and suffering. How do you guard your mind in the midst of a daily barrage of sensory input? How do you protect your mind so that tranquility and wisdom will be well established? The Buddha encouraged restraint of the senses, but this restraint does not require avoidance of sensory contacts or control of the external environment. In this talk, Shaila Catherine will describe how mindfulness allows us to meet the experiences of sensory contact — of seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, touching, and thinking with a mind free of reactivity. Mindfulness protects the mind so that it does not come under the sway of defilements. Mindfulness is a special quality of attention that is balanced in the moment of observing experience. Before looking, before reaching, before speaking, before any activity, we can establish the intention of mindfully meeting the experience without giving rise to anger, irritation, lust, fear, or any defilement. The practice of sensory restraint leads to a life of happiness and joy, and lays the foundation for experiences of deep concentration and awakening.
Sunday, April 20 at 11:00 AM Pacific Time
More information will be posted on the Sangha Live website in the weeks prior to the event: https://sangha.live/free_live/sunday-sangha-20th-april-2025/
By donation.

Half-Day Meditation | Los Altos | Focus on Virtue
2025-04-26 13:30 - 17:30 | Foothills Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall, 461 Orange Ave, Los Altos, CA, 94022, United States
A meditation program with Shaila Catherine
Topic: Dawn of the Liberating Path: Focus on the Role of Virtue
The Buddha teaches that, just as the dawn precedes the rising sun, developing certain qualities prepares us for the path of liberation. Seven of these qualities are highlighted in the Samyutta Nikaya (SN 45:49-90): good friends, virtue, desire, completeness of mind, view, diligence, and careful attention. This monthly Saturday series will explore these qualities and how they support and prepare us to engage and practice fully in a liberating path.
March 22, 2025 — Good Friends
April 26, 2025 — Virtue
May 31, 2025 — Desire
June 28, 2025 — Completeness of Mind
July 26, 2025 — View
August 23, 2025 — Diligence
September 27, 2025 — Careful Attention
This half-day meditation program will nurture the development of mindfulness, concentration, and full awareness in activities. We teach classic Buddhist approaches that enhance attention skills, bring mindfulness to meet the everyday experiences, and cultivate deep calm and liberating wisdom.
The program will include sitting and walking meditation, and meditation instructions. There may be opportunities for individual meetings with the teacher. This half-day program is appropriate for new and experienced meditators.
Reserve your spot!
Choose a ticket below to reserve your seat. The ticketing process will allow you to make a donation online. IMSB will include the billing address entered during the ticketing process on IMSB’s mailing list; you may unsubscribe from our list at any time.
If attendees arrive without a reservation, they may be admitted as space permits. Drop-in attendance is welcome.
Financial Need Scholarships:
If you cannot afford any of the sliding scale ticket options, you may self-select a reduced scholarship rate by utilizing the coupon code, halftherate, during the ticketing process.
Experience Level:
This event is appropriate for newcomers as well as experienced practitioners. The program includes silent or guided meditation and teachings.
What to Bring:
Wear clothing that is suitable for the outdoor temperatures on the day of the event. Bring a blanket, shawl, scarf, sweater, or whatever you like to stay warm since we will maximize ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open during the event. The floor is not carpeted. Bring a mat or cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Standard folding chairs are provided.
Dana/Donations:
IMSB relies upon the generosity of participants to support our teachers and to cover organizational expenses that continue whether we are meeting in-person or online. Dana is a word in the ancient Pali language that describes donations, offerings, and generosity. We encourage you to give joyfully and generously, according to your resources and means. You may include your donation with your ticket selection, give gifts of cash or checks through the baskets at the event, or donate online via credit card, Paypal or Network For Good through our Donate Now page. IMSB is a 501(c) (3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.
