Esalen Institute is open! However, Highway 1 to the south is closed — please review the current travel advisory.
Learn More.

Learn more.

Due to road closures along Highway 1 to our north and south, Esalen is closed through April 11.
Esalen Institute is open! However, Highway 1 to the south is closed — please review the current travel advisory.
past workshop

A Return to Radiance: Igniting the Flame of Your Heart Through Movement, Live Music, and Chakra Activation

November 25–29, 2024

Cristi Christensen and Marques Wyatt with Guest Musician Donna De Lory

Join us for a transformative journey to rekindle the seven flames of consciousness within you. Led by Cristi Christensen, with musical guidance and scoring by renowned DJ Marques Wyatt and the celestial vocals of Donna De Lory, this five-day workshop over Thanksgiving week invited you to shift from a life of “meh” to a resounding “yay!” It’s a chance to rediscover joy, light, and whatever you feel is missing or unlit within you.

This immersive experience includes:

  • Dynamic chakra-based vinyasa, Cristi’s signature yoga practice, enhanced by mudra, pranayama, and prayer, and supported by the sacred rhythms and healing soundscapes of DJ Marques Wyatt and Donna De Lory.
  • Kundalini kriyas and embodied dance to connect deeply with the elements and awaken each chakra.
  • The deep exhale experience for heart healing and self-love to encourage authentic self-expression.
  • Deep relaxation and soma practices designed to restore and relax, including savasana serenade by Donna De Lory.
  • Vocal embodiment to discover the joy and healing power of your voice, accompanied by live music healing that touches the soul.

Prepare to awaken chakra energy for a full-body creative awakening, revel in self-love, and form a deeper connection to your authenticity.

In this workshop, you’ll discover the tools to locate the divinity within and carry practices home to cultivate your inner light.

In the embrace of all that you are, find the balance between depth and sweetness, between igniting and nurturing. As we explore breathwork, mantra, mudra, yoga, and dance, we will embark on a path of self-discovery and renewal, opening up to the power of consciousness and illumination. This workshop isn’t just an event; it’s a turning point, guiding you to reveal and relish the auspicious radiance of your innermost soul beauty.

Join us for a journey to illuminate your Thanksgiving week and help you transform the way you view and live life itself.

Recommended Reading: Chakra Rituals by Cristi Christensen

Cristi Christensen

Cristi Christensen, a former elite gymnast and diver, overcame a severe injury and advanced-stage cancer, inspiring her teachings on resilience and healing. Author of Chakra Rituals, she leads global programs emphasizing body-rooted practices and women's empowerment.

Full Bio

Marques Wyatt

Marques Wyatt is a seminal pioneer and one of the most respected DJs in the United States. A West Coast legend and founder of the long running (20 years) institution for dance music, DEEP-LA, Marques' selections are sure to stir up some emotions and are known to turn huge dance floors into intimate rituals.

Full Bio