Self-Guided Explorations: Rituals of Esalen

“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”
– Joseph Campbell, mythologist and Esalen instructor

Letting go of entrenched ideas – of who we are, of how the world works, of our place in it – is a challenge. It takes energy. Time. Space. Security. This growth asks us to delve into ourselves and to understand the depths of our connections. It’s the driver of change both personal and societal, and it’s always been at the core of Esalen.

The Rituals of Esalen program gives you and a partner five days of peace, space, and natural beauty so you can do the work of growth. Enjoy serenity for the mind, support for the body, stimulus for the spirit, and nourishment for all three. Direct your full energy to connecting with yourself, your partner, and the world around you while drawing on the best of Esalen’s rituals and practices:

• Exploring human potential. The dynamic schedule changes weekly, but always features opportunities to sit in meditation and mindfulness, explore embodiment and movement practices, and connect with nature. An opening circle hosted by our Teacher in Residence welcomes you as you begin your stay, while a closing circle on the final day provides a mindful way to conclude your experience.
• Feeding mind and body. Savor three healthy meals a day. Our dynamic kitchen draws on global culinary traditions, using the fruits of the Esalen Farm & Garden and other local providers to create plant-based meals that support holistic health – for you and for the earth.
• Creating space for reflection. Esalen’s beloved mineral hot springs perch over the Pacific Ocean, a juxtaposition of intimate and infinite. A core part of Esalen from its inception, they’re an ideal place to reflect, find clarity, and set new intentions.

During the days, be inspired by the rugged, wild Big Sur coastline. Use the tranquil evenings ideal for stargazing and contemplation, or spend time exploring the day’s insights with your partner. Unplug. Take advantage of the safety and respite, and rediscover who you are and what you bring to the world so you can return with renewed energy.

The upheavals that punctuate life are valuable opportunities for transformation, if we have the time and space to work through it. That’s the gift of Esalen: the expanse you need to distill your intentions and reawaken the change agent within.