Wild Tao: Hiking and Qi Gong in Big Sur Wilderness

In search of balance, the ancient sages of China walked into the woods to attune themselves with nature in its sublime integrity. The timeless wisdom uncovered in their wild wanderings was called simply Tao, “The Way.” Qi gong — the practice at the heart of Taoism — is dedicated to harmonizing body, mind and spirit with the elements of nature. In this age when so many of us feel disconnected and overwhelmed, wilderness remains a powerful healer and teacher, and qi gong can bring us back to center. Join us to learn an accessible qi gong form called Wai Dan Gong (“Easy Tao”), while immersing in the majestic landscape of Big Sur. We rise each morning to practice, harmonizing breath and movements with the flow of waves greeting Esalen’s cliffs. After breakfast, we set out on a wilderness hike to mindfully explore Big Sur’s enchanted redwoods, sun-steeped meadows and mountains that rise from the sea. All along the trail, we explore qi gong as a pathway for returning to a grounded, spacious, revitalized state of being — in harmony with nature, embodying Wild Tao.

Note: hikes are three–six miles in length, including picnic lunch and returning to Esalen in late afternoon. Various hiking abilities are accommodated.

($75 parks permit and parking fee will be added to workshop cost)