Tovana provides a space for the study and practice of the path of heart and mind, grounded in the ancient Buddhist tradition (the Boddhi-Dharma).

Tovana operates in the spirit of the Insight Meditation tradition, offering the practice of Vipassana and the cultivation of mindfulness in their original and broader context: not merely as tools for stress reduction, but as a profound path for the transformation of consciousness and ultimate liberation.

The teachings draw inspiration and understanding from Buddhist philosophy, and focus on cultivating the qualities of the heart-mind - awareness, clarity, patience, and compassion - as the foundation for a life of wakefulness, freedom, and wisdom.

Our Activities

Tovana works in connection and shared spirit with parallel practice centers around the world. Through its experienced Israeli teaching community, together with visiting teachers from abroad, Tovana offers a wide range of activities:

Retreats (silent meditation courses):

The beating heart of the organization. Periods of intensive practice - from weekend retreats to programs lasting several weeks - held at the Tovana Center in Kibbutz Ein Dor.

Daily life practice:

Meditation groups (“sanghas”), urban and online courses, recorded talks and meditation instructions, and gatherings (both in-person and online) that support the deepening of practice and its integration into everyday life. Activities take place at the Sangha House in Tel Aviv and throughout the country.

The Spirit of the Organization and Its Structure

Tovana operates as a non-profit organization and is founded on the value of mutual generosity and giving from the heart (dāna). Teachers and facilitators offer their teachings entirely on a voluntary basis, with the wish to share this beneficial path with others.

Founded in 1995, the organization is governed by an elected board and supported by a small professional staff. Its true strength lies in the large volunteer community that sustains and drives its activity.

We see the community (“the sangha”) as an inseparable part of the path itself, and we invite every practitioner to take part, volunteer, and help shape the community.