general information S
ince 1962, The Esalen Institute has been devoted to the exploration of what Aldous Huxley called the “human potential,” the
world of unrealized human capacities that lies at the growing edge of consciousness. Esalen is known for its blend of East/West philosophies, experiential/didactic workshops, a steady influx of expert teachers from around the world, and its breathtaking grounds and natural hot springs. Once home to a Native American tribe called the Esselen, Esalen is situated on the spec- tacular Big Sur coastline with the Santa Lucia Mountains rising sharply behind.
There are many ways to experience Esalen.
Workshops
Weekend, five- and seven-day workshops and seminars range in subject matter from Gestalt to visual art. The Guide to Workshops on pages 6–7 provides a list of all programs by subject, and the Seminars section contains full descriptions of weekend, five-, and seven-day programs, listed chronologically.
Work Study
Work Study programs provide an intensive month-long course of study for those who want to make a directed commitment to self-explo- ration, growth, and the Esalen community for a longer period. See page 105 for a full description of the Work Study program.
Personal Retreats
Personal Retreats offer the opportunity to nour- ish body, mind, heart, and soul without partici- pating in a workshop. Those on Personal Retreat structure their time at Esalen themselves, and can participate in daily yoga and movement classes, enjoy the hot springs, meditate, and explore Esalen’s beautiful land. Esalen Personal Retreats are open only to members of the Friends of Esalen program, which supports Esalen’s transformational mission. For additional benefits of membership, and to join Friends of Esalen, please see page 2. See page 111 for Personal Retreat fee information.
Daily Movement Arts Classes
Every day, Esalen offers a schedule of free classes open to everyone. Offerings can include yoga, chanting, meditation, free-form dance, and did- jeridoo meditation at the baths. You will receive a schedule when you arrive.
Wednesday Evening Programs
Esalen hosts visiting scholars and teachers, who interface with the rest of the Esalen com- munity in many ways. Usually there is a scheduled program on Wednesday evenings for visiting scholars, workshop leaders, or Esalen staff to share their expertise with the larger Esalen community.
Esalen®
In addition to its structured programs, Esalen has many ongoing events and features to enrich your stay.
Massage and Bodywork
Esalen has long been known for its unique mas- sage and bodywork modalities, developed by innovative practitioners at the baths overlooking the Pacific, and offered to guests during their stay. Esalen Massage incorporates long flowing strokes over the whole body, and helps release the stresses of everyday life, leaving the receiver feel- ing integrated and deeply relaxed. Other modali- ties often available at Esalen include Cortical Field Reeducation®, Craniosacral Work, LaStone®, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Thai Massage, and Transformational Kinesiology. Massage and bodywork reservations must be made and paid for in advance through Esalen Reservations. If you are coming to Esalen for a massage only, or to make an appointment for a massage at Esalen’s Carmel Center, please call 831-667-3002.
Hot Springs
Esalen is the steward of a natural hot springs overlooking the Pacific. The hot springs are a source of relaxation and healing for those who visit, and you may catch a glimpse into the life of a sea otter, seal, or migratory whale while you enjoy the baths. Swimsuits are optional, and nudity common, in the hot springs and massage areas.
Farm and Garden
Esalen’s five-acre farm and garden produces hun- dreds of varieties of vegetables for the kitchen. In addition to enjoying the farm and garden’s bounty during mealtimes, guests may wander among the fields, enjoy the flowers during spring and summer, participate in farm- and permaculture-oriented workshops throughout the year, and volunteer with the farm and garden crew during their stay.
Children and Families
Esalen welcomes families and offers a selection of family-oriented workshops and child care. See page 7 for a full listing of family-friendly workshops. See page 111 for child care options.
Accommodations
Esalen offers several types of accommodations including standard shared rooms, premium rooms, and the Point Houses. For full descrip- tions and pricing, see page 110.
Friends of Esalen
Friends of Esalen are supporters whose dona- tions of $50 or more will benefit Esalen pro- grams and help build Esalen’s long-term financial base. Please see page 2 for a description of the many benefits of becoming a Friend.
Accreditation and Continuing Education
Many educational institutions recognize Esalen programs as eligible for credit in their curricula; check with your university or college. Additional information can be provided if needed. Esalen provides continuing education (CE) credit for psychologists, MFTs, LCSWs, nurses, and body- workers. See page 113 for details.
For additional details
about your stay at Esalen, please see page 112.
Esalen is a center for experimental education. We offer neither psychotherapy nor assurances of change.
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