History
Founded as an alternative educational center, Esalen is a non-profit organization devoted to the exploration of human potential. Historical luminaries like Aldous Huxley, Joseph Campbell, Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Joan Baez have gathered here to develop revolutionary ideas, transformative practices, and innovative art forms. Today Esalen is a retreat center where people live and work in a communal setting. Esalen offers nearly 600 public workshops a year accenting personal growth and social change in areas traditionally neglected by mainstream institutions. Esalen is known for its research initiatives, invitational conferences, residential internships. Part pioneering lab and college for alternative practices, magical restorative retreat, and creative think-tank, Esalen is dedicated to exploring work in humanities and sciences furthering full realization of the human potential. Admission to Esalen is by reservation for workshops or massage. Casual visits or tours not allowed
Specialties
Esalen offers 3, 5, & 7 Day Workshops Yoga Myth, Ritual, Shamanism Integral Practice Masasage & Body Work Somatic Practices Visual Arts Music Dance Writing Sustainability & Ecology Psychology & Relationships Health & Healing Massage Professional Growth & Training Gestalt Gender Studies Neuropsychology Social & Political Issues Philosophical & Scientific Inquiry