Wenham Insight Meditation Center (WIMC) represents a marriage of two insight meditation lineages: one, represented by Chris Crotty, is a Burmese insight practice that primarily uses mindfulness of the breath as an anchor, and the other, represented by Michael Bresnan, is a Thai/Lao insight practice that primarily uses a meditative hand movement as an anchor. Both Chris and Michael function as Spiritual Directors of the center. Despite the difference in technique, the core teaching is the same in both these lineages, and either method may be practiced by attendees in any of the classes or retreats that are offered at the center. Practitioners are actively encouraged to move freely between the programs offered by these two core teachers, as well as WIMC’s visiting teachers, facilitators, and meditation instructors. 

Insight meditation (vipassana), rooted in the teachings of the Buddha, has evolved over the past two thousand years to support spiritual aspirants and people from all walks of life to reduce suffering and achieve greater freedom in their lives. Combining non-judgmental moment-to-moment attention (mindfulness) with discernment, insight meditation reveals the true nature of mind and body, providing skills and confidence associated with both self-care and spiritual attainments. As an insight sangha (community), WIMC also teaches the Brahma Viharas, meditation practices to cultivate kindness, compassion, equanimity, and joy.