Safety 

We work to protect the safety of all students. We reserve the right to remove any student from any class, sitting group, retreat, or any event if the student is disruptive to the safe learning environment we maintain for all.

Cancellation & Refunds

We reserve the right to cancel a class or event due to low enrollment or other circumstances which would make the event non-viable. If InsightLA cancels an event you’ve registered for, you will be offered a full refund. If an event has to be postponed for any reason, you will have the option to either receive a full refund or transfer your registration to the same event at the new, future date.

Donations are not refundable.
 

 

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  • Location Online
  • Experience Levels All
  • This class is a donation based class. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
  • Date Starts Friday, February 13, 2026
    Ends Sunday, February 15, 2026

    2 nights

Refund and Event Policies

This event is the online version of a hybrid retreat which will take place both in-person and online. To register for the in-person version, please click here.
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Join us for a transformative silent retreat dedicated to the practice of Metta—Loving-Kindness meditation. In the serene hills of Benedict Canyon, immerse yourself in a gentle rhythm of alternating sitting and walking meditations, fostering compassion for yourself, loved ones, and all beings. This weekend offers a sacred pause from the demands of daily life, guided by Melissa McKay, to deepen your connection to inner peace and universal goodwill.

Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to meditation, this retreat provides a supportive space for rest, reflection, and renewal. Embrace the power of silence as you nurture a heart-centered practice that radiates outward.

Retreat Schedule (in PST):

  • Friday, February 13: 6:30–8:30 PM (Campers: Arrive by 6:00 PM to set up tents)
  • Saturday, February 14: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
  • Sunday, February 15: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Expect a blend of instruction, group sittings, gentle walks in nature, and ample time for personal exploration.

Location
Nestled in the tranquil beauty of Benedict Canyon, our retreat house offers a peaceful haven with lush gardens, shaded paths for walking meditation, and cozy indoor spaces. Easy access from Los Angeles, yet worlds away from the city’s hustle.

Camping Option (for in-person attendees)
Embrace the ElementsConnect even more deeply with nature by opting for camping at the retreat site. A limited number of spots are available—perfect for those seeking a minimalist, grounded experience amid the canyon’s quiet beauty.

Camping Details (for in-person attendees)

  • Bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and bedding.
  • Prepare meals in advance; campers are encouraged (but not required) to pack a healthy, hearty lunch and skip the evening meal to align with the retreat’s simplicity.
  • Full access to indoor facilities, including showers, the main meditation hall, and kitchen amenities: refrigerator, stove, microwave, kettles, and coffee/tea station (supplies provided).

If camping calls to you, email office@insightla.org to reserve a spot—availability is first-come, first-served.

We look forward to sharing this Metta-filled weekend with you. May all beings be happy, peaceful, and free. 
 
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Suggested donation:
$185 Commuters
$250 Campers

 

Melissa McKay Teacher

Melissa began her path of meditation in 1998 with a small group of dedicated practitioners in Oakland, CA with her beloved, though not known, teacher named Barbara Janus who introduced her to the teachings of Sayadaw U Pandita of Burma. Her first retreat was with Sayadaw U Pandita and the profound changes she saw in... Read more

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