Esalen Massage: The Basics

Esalen massage promotes feelings of wholeness and a return to our natural state of ease.  Whether a novice or professional, this course guides you through basic massage concepts, with exercises to awaken your senses and plenty of at-the-table guidance. The senior instructors will demonstrate the essential elements, highlighting comfortable draping, the foundational long, integrating strokes, gentle assisted movements, and the all-important pause. Grounding, contact, and the impact of touch will be introduced and practiced with classmates, building an embodied learning experience. The professional caregiver or practitioner can also refresh their existing work with Esalen’s pace, presence – “the listening hand” – and mindful body mechanics. Don’t be surprised if you come away realizing you like to give a simple Esalen massage as much as you like to receive it.

Arrive prepared to enjoy the healing waters of Esalen’s natural hot mineral springs and the serene beauty of the Esalen land. As a gift option, the group will meet for an evening ritual in the baths, weather and space permitting. The sound of the waves and the flowing strokes harmonize into an extraordinary massage experience.