The Story of
Seven Oaks
Seven majestic oak trees once crowned a 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, students of shamanism, 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
Insight Meditation Community of Washington
Founded in 1997 by Tara Brach, PhD, the Insight Meditation Community of Washington is non-profit religious organization. Each month, over 150 classes and events are held throughout the Washington, DC Metro area, including nearby Maryland and Virginia, and online.
In 2024, the Insight Meditation Community of Washington (IMCW) purchased Seven Oaks Retreat Center and will continue to expand this tradition of service to contemplative communities aligned with its values of inclusivity, social justice, ethical behavior, and environmental responsibility.
Our Vision
for Seven Oaks
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Assistant Chef
“I love supporting others on their healing journeys by providing wholesome food that nourishes mind, body, & spirit!”
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Head Chef and Kitchen Manager“blurb”
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Facilities Manager
My favorite thing about working at Seven Oaks has been the meeting people who have deep, tender, and loving ways of being. I have upon occasion, become speechless when hearing the words or deeds of those who walk our grounds. It is an honor to be able to experience the richness of their presence.
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Groundskeeper
“What I love most about Seven Oaks is the way the trees and birds sound at night, and the way the sun sets over the mountains. It's so peaceful - there's a feeling of calm and safety on the grounds.”
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Head of Housekeeping“I love the sense of peace you find walking around the grounds surrounded by nature. “
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Interim Director
“I love the quiet interludes with nature at Seven Oaks.”