Insight Meditation (also known as Vipassana) refers to both Buddhist meditation practices and a largely Western form of Buddhism. A feature of Insight Meditation as a form of Buddhism is that it is either free from ritual or has minimal ritual. There are many styles of Insight Meditation and teachers with different approaches. A common thread is that they all have a focus on settling the mind, developing a level of clarity, and looking carefully at one's experience. Aims of Insight Meditation include coming to a deep understanding of who, what and how we are, and finding a sense of connection with, and compassion for, other living beings.