Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature to Open the Senses and Awaken the Heart

What becomes possible when we slow down, open our senses, and meet the living world with our full attention?

On Esalen’s spectacular Big Sur coast, this immersive, nature-based mindfulness workshop invites you to meditate amid the beauty and aliveness of the natural world. Through sensory awareness and outdoor meditation practices, we will cultivate curiosity, connection, and love, rediscovering our capacity for presence and belonging in an increasingly digital world.

During our time together, you will:

• Learn to meditate outdoors, developing skills to bring mindful attention to your experience in nature.
• Explore sensory awareness practices that deepen attunement, receptivity, and connection with the living world.
• Engage in heart-opening meditations that nurture love and care for the Earth and all life.
• Practice looking to nature as a teacher and refuge, discovering opportunities for insight, renewal, and a deeper sense of belonging.
• Engage in interactive exercises that support a fun, creative exploration of the natural world.

Come prepared for moments of awe, mystery, and unexpected delight as you discover nature’s capacity to inspire and awaken — and practices you can carry into everyday life.

Recommended Reading: Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self-discovery and A Field Guide to Nature Meditation: 52 Mindfulness Practices for Joy, Wisdom, and Wonder by Mark Coleman

Note: This workshop will take place outdoors, and the weather in Big Sur can change throughout the day. Please bring layers and/or a blanket for use during the workshop.

This workshop includes an additional faculty tuition.