Day passes are also available for this period.

In addition to our typical offerings for Self-Guided Explorations, during this week of thematic programming you'll have a very special opportunity to learn from visiting faculty Marques Redd, who will guide us on a transformative journey of self-discovery as we delve into the depths of the mind through African ritual and sacred art.

Additional activities can be found on our Open Class schedule.

Monday, Sept 9

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM
How to Drop into Esalen with Esalen Staff
‍Join us in exploring Esalen’s historic, culture-shifting origins, the vision for human potential, and our core values, as we embark on another 60 years of transformational education. Prepare to learn, grow, experiment and evolve as we shepherd you on how best to integrate into this unique community and get the most out of your time on this sacred, ancient land.

7:15 PM – 8:30 PM
Self-Guided Experience Opening Circle with Esalen Staff
Open up your experience with a welcoming group circle and share how to make the most of your time at Esalen.

Tuesday, Sept 10

10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Deep Currents: Navigating Altered States with Khonsu with Marques Redd
Embark on “Deep Currents,” a transformative journey guided by Khonsu, the ancient Egyptian deity of the moon, meditation, and the ocean. This figure is a member of a pantheon of queer ancient Egyptian deities featured in a sculpture project entitled Myth-Science of the Gatekeepers. This workshop begins with an exploration of Khonsu’s role within this unique pantheon, which sets the stage for a profound aquatic visualization journey. Through the interplay of meditative music and immersive visuals, participants will delve into serene, fluid states of consciousness. ‍

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Dreamscapes & Ink: Crafting Consciousness Through Writing with Marques Redd
“Dreamscapes & Ink” invites participants to explore the transformative interplay between dreaming and writing, positioned as a gateway to altered states of consciousness within African spiritual traditions. This workshop emphasizes how capturing and translating dreams into written form can deepen personal insights and spiritual connections. Participants will receive tailored prompts and engage in exercises that encourage the melding of waking thoughts with dream experiences, facilitating a unique form of self-expression.‍

Wednesday, Sept 11

10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Ancestral Echoes: Navigating Altered States Through Sacred Temples with Marques Redd
“Ancestral Echoes” offers a deep dive into the transformative potential of connecting with ancestral wisdom within sacred spaces. This workshop begins with a viewing of Blackstar Sanctuary, a virtual reality film that explores an ancient Egyptian temple. This will set the stage for meditation techniques that facilitate encounters with the ancestral realm. Participants will learn how to activate these sacred temple spaces within themselves, using them as conduits to altered states of consciousness.‍

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Roots Reclaimed: Ancestral Gateways to Altered States with Marques Redd
Join us in “Roots Reclaimed,” a workshop that integrates the profound traditions of African ancestor veneration with the exploration of altered states of consciousness. Learn the ancient art of pouring libations to connect with ancestors and discover how these rituals can serve as gateways to expanded awareness and deeper self-discovery. This session offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and personal transformation, providing insights into how ancestral engagement can influence our consciousness and contribute to global healing.‍

7:30 PM -8:30 PM
The Cosmic Dance of Creation: A Screening of Obi Mbu (The Primordial House) with Marques Redd
Join us for a screening of Obi Mbu (The Primordial House), a 30-minute experimental dance film that vividly animates a Nigerian-Igbo creation myth. In a sumptuous cosmic setting, the film features the deities Eke-Nnechukwu and Chukwu, who embody the dual aspects of the primordial androgynous deity existing as the expansive blackness of space. This screening provides a profound visual and emotional journey into altered states of consciousness and offers a unique intersection of mythology, dance, and cosmic spirituality.‍

Thursday, Sept 12

10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Divine Messages: Crafting Oracles with Tehuti-Maa with Marques Redd
Explore the mystical realm of oracles and divine wisdom in “Divine Messages,” a workshop centered around Tehuti-Maa, the ancient Egyptian deity of universal wisdom. This session invites participants into the world of oracular divination, a crucial aspect of traditional African spirituality. Participants will create their own mini-oracle decks with cards that use images from the Infinite Essence photography series of Mikael Owunna.

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Sacred Grounds: Building Altars for Altered States with Marques Redd
“Sacred Grounds” invites participants to immerse themselves in the ancient practice of altar making, a vital component of traditional African spirituality designed to bridge the visible and spiritual realms. This workshop explores the significance of altars as tools for transformation and connection, offering insights into their creation and use to access altered states of consciousness.

Friday, Sept 13

10:30 AM – 11:45 AM PDT
Self-Guided Experience Closing Circle with Esalen Staff
We’ll close out the experience by gathering as a group to debrief your time, share insights and how to integrate your time at Esalen when you leave.