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Or if your path is a more holistic onetheres something for you here as well.
Photo: Courtesy of Esalen Institute
Why go here?
Full disclosure:Esalenis not a spa.
(They describe themselves as an incubator of human potential.)
Photo: Courtesy of Esalen Institute
Nor can you simply drop in: You must sign up for one of their specific multiday workshops.
But this doesnt mean the experience is predetermined.
Want to visualize it?
Photo: Courtesy of Esalen Institute
WatchMad Mensfamous finale,where Don Draper visits a fictionalized center based off the real-life Esalen.
Whats the vibe?
Hidden within this dramatic landscape are yurts, meditation hut, cottages, and therapy rooms.
Photo: Courtesy of Esalen Institute
Theres no cell service, and Wi-Fi is only available in the propertys main lodge and some select accommodations.
However, its shut off during meal times to encourage connection between other members in your program.
Lodging, in general, is no-frills.
Photo: Courtesy of Esalen Institute
(Dont go looking for free toiletries or televisions in the roomsthere are none.)
How basic you want to go is up to you.
Want to just sleep in a sack on the floor?
Esalen will let you do that.
Want to rent a private house that belonged to Fritz Perls, creator of Gestalt therapy?
you’ve got the option to do that too.
Most guests, however, will opt for a standard king-size bedroom or a yurt.
(The New York Timescalledit a storied hippie hotel.)
In recent years, its become a hot spot for Silicon Valley leaders.
The history?
As Esalen grew more famous, the number of programs grew.
Now, Esalen welcomes over 12,000 people per year.
What should you try?
Its impossible for me to sayEsalen offers hundreds of workshops throughout the year and is a deeply personal experience.
Look on their website and pick the one that speaks to you.
How environmentally friendly is it?
Esalen is rooted in sustainability.
This spring, for example, they will have a two-week workshop on environmental stewardship.
What else do we need to know?
The hot springs at Esalen are clothing-optional, and most people prefer to be in the nude.
Who can go?
Esalen is open for those enrolled in a workshop or experimental program.
you might come for the day with a pre-reserved Esalen massage appointment or as a scheduled volunteer.
Booking details forEsalen
Address:55000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Read more fromVoguesGlobal Spa Guide.
