The Sakonnet Insight Meditation Group (SIMG) aims to foster a greater sense of community among vipassana (insight) meditation practitioners in the greater Sakonnet area, and bring the practice of insight meditation to all who wish to explore it.

By gathering once per month for group meditation and discussion on matters of living mindfully, exploring how insight meditation can be a pathway for personal and spiritual growth, and fostering deeper compassion for and understanding of the world around us, attendees of the SIMG can help grow their personal practice, while finding simple joy and support in community.

Although insight meditation is deeply rooted within Buddhist tradition, the practice and application to our everyday lives is universal. SIMG welcomes meditation practitioners of all levels, from beginner to experienced, regardless of race, class, age, ethnicity, cultural and religious background, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Simple and basic instruction will be given for those who are new to meditation. For the group discussion portion of our time, we’ll use a meditation/mindfulness-themed reading, video, or audio resource (noted in advance) as our foundation.

Each monthly session is free and open to the public. It will be one hour long and follow this approach:

• First 10 minutes – Arrive and settle in. Please bring your own cushion, pillow, or blanket for sitting. Chairs will be available. Please remove shoes at the door.
• Next 20 minutes – Meditation
• Next 20 minutes – Open/Group Discussion
• Final 10 minutes – Clean up and departure

SIMG is facilitated by Tiverton residents Bill Gerlach and John Zeller. Please note that while both are long-time practitioners of insight meditation, neither are certified teachers (though aspire to be one day!).