Insight Meditation
Developing in the Buddhist tradition, Vipassana or Insight Meditation has been practiced in Asia for 2,500 years. It develops concentration and awareness by focusing attention on the breath, thoughts, and emotions, allowing practitioners to understand the conditioning of the mind and to live more fully in the present moment.
Insight Meditation Houston
Insight Meditation Houston was founded in 1980 by Rodney Smith, who had ordained with Mahasi Sayadaw in Burma and then had practiced for three years with Ajahn Buddhadasa in Thailand. Returning to the West, Rodney worked in hospice care and taught Vipassana meditation throughout the U.S. Since he left Houston in 1983, IMH has continued to meet weekly in the city and to sponsor two or three retreats each year at the Margaret Austin Center, which is located in a tranquil rural setting near Chappell Hill, Texas.
Weekly Sittings
Weekly sittings are held on Monday nights from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall on the ground floor at Covenant Church, 4949 Caroline St. They are open to people of all faiths, or none. Currently, they are led by Ginger Clarkson, a Community Dharma Leader trained by James Baraz, Jack Kornfield and other teachers at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in California. Typically, the sessions begin with a few minutes of Qi Gong exercises, followed by approximately half an hour of silent meditation. A talk applying principles of Buddhist philosophy to everyday life often follows, succeeded by discussion.
Parking is available for free. Chairs will be provided, but if you prefer to sit on the floor, please bring your own cushion or bench.
Location
Houston, TX, USA
Website
