Meditating in noble silence offers a special opportunity to focus inward and to deeply connect with oneself, create intentions, and reflect on life goals. The New Year, with its connection to the winter solstice and new beginnings, is the perfect time to silently journey inward. You are invited to set intentions and explore, through seated and moving meditation, themes of self-kindness, self-care, and nurturing. This retreat offers a quiet, reflective space within the Esalen experience to discover a deep, centered place within.

The week will be spent in periods of noble silence with two extended periods a day in various meditation practices. Enjoy eating lunch at a silent table and continue your meditation or join the open activities of the day at Esalen in mindfulness.

Mark will guide you through a series of practices of both stillness and movement, which will build the momentum of concentration and awareness. We will practice mindfulness meditation utilizing the rich, sensual experience of Esalen, with the sounds of the ocean, the feeling of the air, and the beauty of seeing the colors and textures as well as the rich experience of our own bodies and minds. Evenings will be open to mindfully enjoy Esalen’s beauty and community or choose to continue silence in inner retreat. New Year’s Eve at Esalen usually includes a community-wide celebration of some kind, which is an option, but not required.