Seven Oaks Retreat Center resides on land originally inhabited by Siouan Indians of the Monacan and Mannahoac tribes. Seven majestic oak trees crown this ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Madison, Virginia, and inspired the name Donovan and Susan Thesenga gave to the center they started in 1972.

Through the years, Seven Oaks Retreat Center has continued this tradition of supporting deep spiritual experiences in a thoughtful manner and hosted a variety of tailor-made programs for contemplative people, including groups such as Buddhist students, yoga practitioners, those studying Pathwork, creative arts groups, and other spiritually oriented gatherings.

In 2024, the Insight Meditation Community of Washington (IMCW) purchased Seven Oaks Retreat Center to continue and expand its tradition of service through practicing meditation in community retreats.

As the owners of Seven Oaks, Insight Meditation Community of Washington is committed to inclusivity and social justice. Our core values are rooted in Buddhism and we welcome all those endeavoring to live consciously, responsibly, and harmoniously.