As winter thaws and the high peaks awaken with new life, this springtime retreat invites you to explore mindfulness in the living presence of the Rocky Mountains. Informed by the teachings of the Burmese monk Sayadaw U Tejaniya, with whom the teachers have studied, our practice emphasizes a relaxed, natural awareness.
This outdoor retreat is centered on teaching powerful and practical mindfulness tools to help you stay afloat amidst life's challenges, allowing you to move freely with clarity, peace, and wisdom. Through guided practices of insight meditation you’ll learn how to stay anchored in the present moment, even as the currents of life flow around you.
In the storms of our lives, we need refuge—a place of nourishment and support where we can replenish our tired bodies and troubled hearts. When the Buddha taught meditation, his first instruction was to go sit under a tree. We will practice together in the age-old tradition of being outside in the company of the natural world. Together, we will tap into the natural stillness and dynamism that surrounds us and teaches us balance. As we integrate stillness and movement, we move toward being active participants in the world while maintaining balance and ease in our hearts and minds.
This silent, nature-based Vipassana meditation retreat offers a precious opportunity to slow down, attune to the rhythms of the natural world, and explore practices of deep listening—to both our inner nature and
the world around us.
In September 2026 Susie Harrington, Jaya Rudgard and Eleni Monos (assisting) will be offering a nature retreat at the IMS Forest Refuge. A unique opportunity to practice all day outside in the beautiful forest around the retreat center, while having the comfort of sleeping inside.