Inspired by 20th-century French writer Marcel Proust, we here at Esalen have created our own version of his favorite parlor game to dig just a little deeper — and differently — into our incredible faculty and staff.
Hawah Kasat on why nature is his greatest love and what makes witnessing transformation “pure joy.” In anticipation of his spring workshop, Inward Bound: Exploring Silence, Movement, and Meditation, the celebrated teacher, author, and documentary filmmaker imagines the mind of a jellyfish, considers the language of music, and explains that returning to ritual and community during challenging times is more than a solitary act: “[It’s] something woven into the people and spaces that support me.”
What do you do/are you doing at Esalen?
I’m offering a retreat that integrates periods of noble silence between sessions of asana, pranayama, and meditation. It’s meant for those who want to have a chance to connect with community while also taking time to go inward. If you’ve been curious but unsure if a full silent retreat is right for you, then this is the perfect opportunity for you to get a taste of what it feels like.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Not thinking about trying to be happy.
What is your current state of mind?
My current state of mind is a mix of focused determination and quiet reflection. I’m holding space for big transitions, both personally and professionally, while staying present to the moments of growth unfolding around me. There’s a sense of urgency in the work I do but also a deep commitment to moving with intention rather than haste.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Perfectionism. It masquerades as excellence but often breeds paralysis, self-doubt, and unnecessary suffering. Real impact — whether in leadership, writing, teaching, or activism — comes from embracing the messy, human process of growth. Perfection isn’t the goal; showing up, learning, and evolving are.
What is the quality you most like in a human?
The willingness to truly listen. Not just hearing words but holding space — without agenda, without waiting to respond. A person who listens deeply makes others feel seen, understood, and valued. In a world full of noise, genuine listening is an act of love and revolution.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
Nature is the greatest love of my life. It’s where I find solace, clarity, and connection — whether standing beneath towering trees, listening to the rhythm of the ocean, or watching the effortless grace of a bird in flight. Nature is both a teacher and a refuge, reminding me of life’s impermanence, resilience, and beauty. It’s where I feel most alive, most in sync with something greater than myself.
What about your work brings you the most happiness?
Being in spaces where transformation is happening — where people are growing, healing, and stepping more fully into their purpose. Whether it’s a young person finding their voice through poetry, an adult reconnecting with their true self, or a community shifting toward deeper understanding, witnessing and being a part of that kind of change is pure joy.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to have the talent of playing music effortlessly by ear — to pick up any instrument and translate emotion into sound without hesitation. Music has a way of reaching people beyond words, and I’ve always admired those who can create that kind of magic. It’s a language of connection, healing, and expression that I’d love to speak fluently.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would change my tendency to carry the weight of responsibility too heavily.
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to know what was inside the mind of a jellyfish.
What is your most treasured possession?
My integrity
How do you maintain your practice(s) during challenging times?
I lean into discipline but allow flexibility. I remind myself that even small acts — one deep breath, a moment of stillness, a short walk — can anchor me when everything feels unsteady. I also return to community and ritual, knowing that practice isn’t just a solitary act but something woven into the people and spaces that support me.
Who are some of your inspirations?
Rabindranath Tagore, Maya Angelou, Thich Nhat Hanh, Wangari Maathai, James Baldwin, Nelson Mandela, Pema Chödrön, Vinoba Bhave, Dorothy Day, Malidoma Patrice Somé, Rainer Maria Rilke, Thomas Merton, Winona LaDuke, bell hooks, and Alice Walker
How would you like to die?
Somewhere close to nature, surrounded by people I love, or the quiet presence of trees and sky. I hope to leave knowing I gave everything I could, that I loved fiercely, and that the ripples of my work will continue beyond me. More than anything, I want to go with a sense of gratitude — grateful for the journey, for the lessons, and for the chance to have walked this path at all.
What is your motto?
To say you are finished is to declare your own limits.
Ability lies in your devotion to challenge it.
“Remembering to be as self compassionate as I can and praying to the divine that we're all a part of.”
–Aaron
“Prayer, reading, meditation, walking.”
–Karen
“Erratically — which is an ongoing stream of practice to find peace.”
–Charles
“Try on a daily basis to be kind to myself and to realize that making mistakes is a part of the human condition. Learning from our mistakes is a journey. But it starts with compassion and caring. First for oneself.”
–Steve
“Physically: aerobic exercise, volleyball, ice hockey, cycling, sailing. Emotionally: unfortunately I have to work to ‘not care’ about people or situations which may end painfully. Along the lines of ‘attachment is the source of suffering’, so best to avoid it or limit its scope. Sad though because it could also be the source of great joy. Is it worth the risk?“
–Rainer
“It's time for my heart to be nurtured on one level yet contained on another. To go easy on me and to allow my feelings to be validated, not judged harshly. On the other hand, to let the heart rule with equanimity and not lead the mind and body around like a master.”
–Suzanne
“I spend time thinking of everything I am grateful for, and I try to develop my ability to express compassion for myself and others without reservation. I take time to do the things I need to do to keep myself healthy and happy. This includes taking experiential workshops, fostering relationships, and participating within groups which have a similar interest to become a more compassionate and fulfilled being.“
–Peter
“Self-forgiveness for my own judgments. And oh yeah, coming to Esalen.”
–David B.
“Hmm, this is a tough one! I guess I take care of my heart through fostering relationships with people I feel connected to. Spending quality time with them (whether we're on the phone, through messages/letters, on Zoom, or in-person). Being there for them, listening to them, sharing what's going on with me, my struggles and my successes... like we do in the Esalen weekly Friends of Esalen Zoom sessions!”
–Lori
“I remind myself in many ways of the fact that " Love is all there is!" LOVE is the prize and this one precious life is the stage we get to learn our lessons. I get out into nature, hike, camp, river kayak, fly fish, garden, I create, I dance (not enough!), and I remain grateful for each day, each breath, each moment. Being in the moment, awake, and remembering the gift of life and my feeling of gratitude for all of creation.”
–Steven
“My physical heart by limiting stress and eating a heart-healthy diet. My emotional heart by staying in love with the world and by knowing that all disappointment and loss will pass.“
–David Z.
Today, September 29, is World Heart Day. Strike up a conversation with your own heart and as you feel comfortable, encourage others to do the same. As part of our own transformations and self-care, we sometimes ask for others to illuminate and enliven our hearts or speak our love language.
What if we could do this for ourselves too, even if just for today… or to start a heart practice, forever?
Inspired by 20th-century French writer Marcel Proust, we here at Esalen have created our own version of his favorite parlor game to dig just a little deeper — and differently — into our incredible faculty and staff.
Hawah Kasat on why nature is his greatest love and what makes witnessing transformation “pure joy.” In anticipation of his spring workshop, Inward Bound: Exploring Silence, Movement, and Meditation, the celebrated teacher, author, and documentary filmmaker imagines the mind of a jellyfish, considers the language of music, and explains that returning to ritual and community during challenging times is more than a solitary act: “[It’s] something woven into the people and spaces that support me.”
What do you do/are you doing at Esalen?
I’m offering a retreat that integrates periods of noble silence between sessions of asana, pranayama, and meditation. It’s meant for those who want to have a chance to connect with community while also taking time to go inward. If you’ve been curious but unsure if a full silent retreat is right for you, then this is the perfect opportunity for you to get a taste of what it feels like.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Not thinking about trying to be happy.
What is your current state of mind?
My current state of mind is a mix of focused determination and quiet reflection. I’m holding space for big transitions, both personally and professionally, while staying present to the moments of growth unfolding around me. There’s a sense of urgency in the work I do but also a deep commitment to moving with intention rather than haste.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Perfectionism. It masquerades as excellence but often breeds paralysis, self-doubt, and unnecessary suffering. Real impact — whether in leadership, writing, teaching, or activism — comes from embracing the messy, human process of growth. Perfection isn’t the goal; showing up, learning, and evolving are.
What is the quality you most like in a human?
The willingness to truly listen. Not just hearing words but holding space — without agenda, without waiting to respond. A person who listens deeply makes others feel seen, understood, and valued. In a world full of noise, genuine listening is an act of love and revolution.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
Nature is the greatest love of my life. It’s where I find solace, clarity, and connection — whether standing beneath towering trees, listening to the rhythm of the ocean, or watching the effortless grace of a bird in flight. Nature is both a teacher and a refuge, reminding me of life’s impermanence, resilience, and beauty. It’s where I feel most alive, most in sync with something greater than myself.
What about your work brings you the most happiness?
Being in spaces where transformation is happening — where people are growing, healing, and stepping more fully into their purpose. Whether it’s a young person finding their voice through poetry, an adult reconnecting with their true self, or a community shifting toward deeper understanding, witnessing and being a part of that kind of change is pure joy.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to have the talent of playing music effortlessly by ear — to pick up any instrument and translate emotion into sound without hesitation. Music has a way of reaching people beyond words, and I’ve always admired those who can create that kind of magic. It’s a language of connection, healing, and expression that I’d love to speak fluently.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would change my tendency to carry the weight of responsibility too heavily.
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to know what was inside the mind of a jellyfish.
What is your most treasured possession?
My integrity
How do you maintain your practice(s) during challenging times?
I lean into discipline but allow flexibility. I remind myself that even small acts — one deep breath, a moment of stillness, a short walk — can anchor me when everything feels unsteady. I also return to community and ritual, knowing that practice isn’t just a solitary act but something woven into the people and spaces that support me.
Who are some of your inspirations?
Rabindranath Tagore, Maya Angelou, Thich Nhat Hanh, Wangari Maathai, James Baldwin, Nelson Mandela, Pema Chödrön, Vinoba Bhave, Dorothy Day, Malidoma Patrice Somé, Rainer Maria Rilke, Thomas Merton, Winona LaDuke, bell hooks, and Alice Walker
How would you like to die?
Somewhere close to nature, surrounded by people I love, or the quiet presence of trees and sky. I hope to leave knowing I gave everything I could, that I loved fiercely, and that the ripples of my work will continue beyond me. More than anything, I want to go with a sense of gratitude — grateful for the journey, for the lessons, and for the chance to have walked this path at all.
What is your motto?
To say you are finished is to declare your own limits.
Ability lies in your devotion to challenge it.
“Remembering to be as self compassionate as I can and praying to the divine that we're all a part of.”
–Aaron
“Prayer, reading, meditation, walking.”
–Karen
“Erratically — which is an ongoing stream of practice to find peace.”
–Charles
“Try on a daily basis to be kind to myself and to realize that making mistakes is a part of the human condition. Learning from our mistakes is a journey. But it starts with compassion and caring. First for oneself.”
–Steve
“Physically: aerobic exercise, volleyball, ice hockey, cycling, sailing. Emotionally: unfortunately I have to work to ‘not care’ about people or situations which may end painfully. Along the lines of ‘attachment is the source of suffering’, so best to avoid it or limit its scope. Sad though because it could also be the source of great joy. Is it worth the risk?“
–Rainer
“It's time for my heart to be nurtured on one level yet contained on another. To go easy on me and to allow my feelings to be validated, not judged harshly. On the other hand, to let the heart rule with equanimity and not lead the mind and body around like a master.”
–Suzanne
“I spend time thinking of everything I am grateful for, and I try to develop my ability to express compassion for myself and others without reservation. I take time to do the things I need to do to keep myself healthy and happy. This includes taking experiential workshops, fostering relationships, and participating within groups which have a similar interest to become a more compassionate and fulfilled being.“
–Peter
“Self-forgiveness for my own judgments. And oh yeah, coming to Esalen.”
–David B.
“Hmm, this is a tough one! I guess I take care of my heart through fostering relationships with people I feel connected to. Spending quality time with them (whether we're on the phone, through messages/letters, on Zoom, or in-person). Being there for them, listening to them, sharing what's going on with me, my struggles and my successes... like we do in the Esalen weekly Friends of Esalen Zoom sessions!”
–Lori
“I remind myself in many ways of the fact that " Love is all there is!" LOVE is the prize and this one precious life is the stage we get to learn our lessons. I get out into nature, hike, camp, river kayak, fly fish, garden, I create, I dance (not enough!), and I remain grateful for each day, each breath, each moment. Being in the moment, awake, and remembering the gift of life and my feeling of gratitude for all of creation.”
–Steven
“My physical heart by limiting stress and eating a heart-healthy diet. My emotional heart by staying in love with the world and by knowing that all disappointment and loss will pass.“
–David Z.
Today, September 29, is World Heart Day. Strike up a conversation with your own heart and as you feel comfortable, encourage others to do the same. As part of our own transformations and self-care, we sometimes ask for others to illuminate and enliven our hearts or speak our love language.
What if we could do this for ourselves too, even if just for today… or to start a heart practice, forever?
Inspired by 20th-century French writer Marcel Proust, we here at Esalen have created our own version of his favorite parlor game to dig just a little deeper — and differently — into our incredible faculty and staff.
Hawah Kasat on why nature is his greatest love and what makes witnessing transformation “pure joy.” In anticipation of his spring workshop, Inward Bound: Exploring Silence, Movement, and Meditation, the celebrated teacher, author, and documentary filmmaker imagines the mind of a jellyfish, considers the language of music, and explains that returning to ritual and community during challenging times is more than a solitary act: “[It’s] something woven into the people and spaces that support me.”
What do you do/are you doing at Esalen?
I’m offering a retreat that integrates periods of noble silence between sessions of asana, pranayama, and meditation. It’s meant for those who want to have a chance to connect with community while also taking time to go inward. If you’ve been curious but unsure if a full silent retreat is right for you, then this is the perfect opportunity for you to get a taste of what it feels like.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Not thinking about trying to be happy.
What is your current state of mind?
My current state of mind is a mix of focused determination and quiet reflection. I’m holding space for big transitions, both personally and professionally, while staying present to the moments of growth unfolding around me. There’s a sense of urgency in the work I do but also a deep commitment to moving with intention rather than haste.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Perfectionism. It masquerades as excellence but often breeds paralysis, self-doubt, and unnecessary suffering. Real impact — whether in leadership, writing, teaching, or activism — comes from embracing the messy, human process of growth. Perfection isn’t the goal; showing up, learning, and evolving are.
What is the quality you most like in a human?
The willingness to truly listen. Not just hearing words but holding space — without agenda, without waiting to respond. A person who listens deeply makes others feel seen, understood, and valued. In a world full of noise, genuine listening is an act of love and revolution.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
Nature is the greatest love of my life. It’s where I find solace, clarity, and connection — whether standing beneath towering trees, listening to the rhythm of the ocean, or watching the effortless grace of a bird in flight. Nature is both a teacher and a refuge, reminding me of life’s impermanence, resilience, and beauty. It’s where I feel most alive, most in sync with something greater than myself.
What about your work brings you the most happiness?
Being in spaces where transformation is happening — where people are growing, healing, and stepping more fully into their purpose. Whether it’s a young person finding their voice through poetry, an adult reconnecting with their true self, or a community shifting toward deeper understanding, witnessing and being a part of that kind of change is pure joy.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to have the talent of playing music effortlessly by ear — to pick up any instrument and translate emotion into sound without hesitation. Music has a way of reaching people beyond words, and I’ve always admired those who can create that kind of magic. It’s a language of connection, healing, and expression that I’d love to speak fluently.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would change my tendency to carry the weight of responsibility too heavily.
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to know what was inside the mind of a jellyfish.
What is your most treasured possession?
My integrity
How do you maintain your practice(s) during challenging times?
I lean into discipline but allow flexibility. I remind myself that even small acts — one deep breath, a moment of stillness, a short walk — can anchor me when everything feels unsteady. I also return to community and ritual, knowing that practice isn’t just a solitary act but something woven into the people and spaces that support me.
Who are some of your inspirations?
Rabindranath Tagore, Maya Angelou, Thich Nhat Hanh, Wangari Maathai, James Baldwin, Nelson Mandela, Pema Chödrön, Vinoba Bhave, Dorothy Day, Malidoma Patrice Somé, Rainer Maria Rilke, Thomas Merton, Winona LaDuke, bell hooks, and Alice Walker
How would you like to die?
Somewhere close to nature, surrounded by people I love, or the quiet presence of trees and sky. I hope to leave knowing I gave everything I could, that I loved fiercely, and that the ripples of my work will continue beyond me. More than anything, I want to go with a sense of gratitude — grateful for the journey, for the lessons, and for the chance to have walked this path at all.
What is your motto?
To say you are finished is to declare your own limits.
Ability lies in your devotion to challenge it.
“Remembering to be as self compassionate as I can and praying to the divine that we're all a part of.”
–Aaron
“Prayer, reading, meditation, walking.”
–Karen
“Erratically — which is an ongoing stream of practice to find peace.”
–Charles
“Try on a daily basis to be kind to myself and to realize that making mistakes is a part of the human condition. Learning from our mistakes is a journey. But it starts with compassion and caring. First for oneself.”
–Steve
“Physically: aerobic exercise, volleyball, ice hockey, cycling, sailing. Emotionally: unfortunately I have to work to ‘not care’ about people or situations which may end painfully. Along the lines of ‘attachment is the source of suffering’, so best to avoid it or limit its scope. Sad though because it could also be the source of great joy. Is it worth the risk?“
–Rainer
“It's time for my heart to be nurtured on one level yet contained on another. To go easy on me and to allow my feelings to be validated, not judged harshly. On the other hand, to let the heart rule with equanimity and not lead the mind and body around like a master.”
–Suzanne
“I spend time thinking of everything I am grateful for, and I try to develop my ability to express compassion for myself and others without reservation. I take time to do the things I need to do to keep myself healthy and happy. This includes taking experiential workshops, fostering relationships, and participating within groups which have a similar interest to become a more compassionate and fulfilled being.“
–Peter
“Self-forgiveness for my own judgments. And oh yeah, coming to Esalen.”
–David B.
“Hmm, this is a tough one! I guess I take care of my heart through fostering relationships with people I feel connected to. Spending quality time with them (whether we're on the phone, through messages/letters, on Zoom, or in-person). Being there for them, listening to them, sharing what's going on with me, my struggles and my successes... like we do in the Esalen weekly Friends of Esalen Zoom sessions!”
–Lori
“I remind myself in many ways of the fact that " Love is all there is!" LOVE is the prize and this one precious life is the stage we get to learn our lessons. I get out into nature, hike, camp, river kayak, fly fish, garden, I create, I dance (not enough!), and I remain grateful for each day, each breath, each moment. Being in the moment, awake, and remembering the gift of life and my feeling of gratitude for all of creation.”
–Steven
“My physical heart by limiting stress and eating a heart-healthy diet. My emotional heart by staying in love with the world and by knowing that all disappointment and loss will pass.“
–David Z.
Today, September 29, is World Heart Day. Strike up a conversation with your own heart and as you feel comfortable, encourage others to do the same. As part of our own transformations and self-care, we sometimes ask for others to illuminate and enliven our hearts or speak our love language.
What if we could do this for ourselves too, even if just for today… or to start a heart practice, forever?
Esalen Institute
55000 Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920
US: 1-831-667-3000
info@esalen.org
