The Buddha taught that all humans are alike in their desire for happiness and love. This is so whether or not we use unskillful or skillful means in our attempt to find balance, peace and happiness. The confidence, strength, and personal authority to right ourselves when we encounter suffering and pain come from the cultivated heart and mind, which trains and prepares us to meet the suffering and pain we encounter in relation to ourselves and with other beings. Love asks you to let go. Compassion asks you to let go.
DaRa Williams
Residential Retreat Teacher
DaRa Williams has practiced Insight Meditation for more than 25 years. She completed the Spirit Rock/IMS/IRC Teacher Training, serves as a Spirit Rock Stewarding Teacher, and as an Associate Guiding Teacher at IMS. DaRa is a trainer and wellness coach, and has been a clinician and administrator in the mental health field for over 25 years. She is a certified Focusing Oriented Therapist and a practitioner and trainer of Aboriginal Focusing Oriented Complex Trauma Therapy.
"It is my belief that vipassana meditation and the dharma are ideal for transforming suffering, particularly the trauma of oppression and its many vicissitudes-where the chains around our minds and hearts can be broken through and dissolved. Awareness and wisdom become the vehicle for freedom and transforming lives."
DaRa Williams' Upcoming Programs
Retreat | On-Land
April 9 - April 16, 2025 | Wednesday - Wednesday | 7 nights
Insight Meditation Retreat
Registration Open. This is a silent retreat suitable to those new and experienced in the practices of Insight Meditation (vipassanā). The retreat includes systematic instructions on vipassanā meditation—both in stillness and movement—as well as lovingkindness practices, meetings with teachers, and evening talks highlighting the central teachings of the Buddha and their practical application in our lives. This retreat is silent except for teacher-led Q&A, small groups, or other practice meetings.
Dharma Library
Can't join us live online or on the land? Study and practice at your convenience with DaRa Williams through our new library of recordings, articles, and self-paced online courses.