As we enter March, resilient after natural and human-made disasters, we are taking a few extra moments to reflect on all that Big Sur and Esalen, with its awe-inspiring natural beauty, conjures up and inspires within us. 

The reminder to breathe deeply is ever-present. We consider the magnitude of simply (or not so simply) showing up fully, mindfully, and with the intention to make the most of the immense privilege of our precious existence and the gifts Mother Nature provides us. In our busy, often fragmented lives, we can forget that well-being is not just about what we do but how we sustainably navigate life’s most challenging, uncertain, and, at times, frightening moments. 

True self-care isn’t just squeezing in a weekend retreat or stealing a few quiet moments. Rather, it’s about integrating all that we glean from these opportunities, incorporating those gems into daily, lifelong practices. An intentional and inspired way of living can transform behavior and mindset. Deep breathing, fresh, local nourishing foods, time and special spaces to rest, meaningful bonds with fellow seekers — these can counteract the many ways our nervous systems can far too instantly feel dysregulated. 

We aspire for our approach to storytelling to inspire and spark new curiosities. Transformative practices, programming opportunities, books written by our esteemed faculty and friends, and our storied, juicy history are here for you to dig into and explore. All of this is to express our gratitude for the incredible people who pass through here — including you.  

Continuing our decade-by-decade illustrated series, we present the 1970s installment of the Find Your Potential Illustrated Series. Discover the characters who passed through 55000 Highway 1 over the past six decades and notice what has changed alongside what withstands the test of time (and weather).

Speaking of changes over the decades, our accommodations reflect an evolution of quirky architectural styles. We recently updated some photos to give you a better feel for where you can lay your head. Check it all out!

All of us who descend down the hill to experience Esalen come here for a variety of personal reasons. We spoke with a few Esalen faculty and board members about how their journey and time here have impacted their lives and led toward greater collective experiences.

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The check-in, a group exercise rooted in the Gestalt practice that evolved at Esalen over the years, has become a cornerstone of the Esalen experience, often described as a catalyst for self-awareness, connection, and personal growth. In this episode, Sam, Jess, Shira, Faith, and Alex return for another check-in, joined by legendary OG healing arts practitioner Peggy Horan. What you'll hear is real, authentic, and unscripted, offering a rare glimpse into the heart of what makes Esalen truly special. This is the secret sauce — the open, honest sharing that forms the foundation for personal transformation.

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Restoring the divine feminine brings us back into harmony with ourselves and one another. It places collaboration, nurturing, and creativity at the center of our lives. In anticipation of her spring workshop, Embracing the Divine Feminine, Elizabeth Philipose shares thoughts on how to awaken the compassion, wisdom, and strength needed to heal and liberate humanity.

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Our first female general manager on her friendship with Fritz Perls and ushering in her brand of equality: "I realized how much power men seemed to have. Or, more accurately, how much of my own power I had been giving away. I learned to tap into my own power and speak up without hesitation." Beverly Silverman takes us back to Esalen's early days for a story of personal discovery and growth.

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