It’s that time of year again. You’ve got gifts to buy and you want your generosity to be meaningful, not superficial. Also, like us, you love Esalen and want to share that love, the vibes, with those around you. Our carefully curated gift guide is designed to help you express your love and friendship with items that reflect adventure, healing, and growth. Find the perfect things for your dreamers and seekers with the Esalen Holiday Gift Guide!
If you’ve ever struggled to explain this place to the people in your life – Is it a retreat? Sort of, but it’s more than that. An institute? An oasis? A site for revelation? Yes, all that and so much more! — then get them this all-encompassing history of the holistic educational center known as Esalen. Or, as the author puts it, “a utopian experiment creatively suspended between the revelations of the religions and the democratic, pluralistic and scientific revolutions of modernity.” Deeply researched, beginning with the institute’s founding in 1962 by Michael Murphy and Richard Price, this book recounts many of Esalen’s eras, iterations, and history-changing moments along with numerous scholars, philosophers, counterculture figures, celebrities, and geniuses that have graced these grounds. It’s the perfect present for those who have already experienced Esalen (but wish to know more), a fantastic introduction for novices (who require a little context before booking their first workshop), and an extraordinary synthesis of personalities, events, and histories — all compiled through Kripal’s beautiful prose. From The Atlantic Monthly’s 2007 review, “That he reconciles all this while barely batting an eye is remarkable; that he does so while writing with such élan is nothing short of wondrous.”
Gift the power of gratitude with 64 beautifully designed cards with original illustrations and inspiring quotes for guidance and positivity. This uplifting stocking stuffer can be a spiritual assist for anyone looking to cultivate a daily gratitude practice to help carry them through their days, no matter what hand they are dealt. Each deck also comes with a 176-page guidebook on the practice of gratitude and a keepsake storage box.
The perfect comfort item to make hiking adventures, impromptu park picnics, and communions with nature cozy, luxurious, and inviting. It’s the ultimate outdoor blanket, created through Esalen’s partnership with Trek Light Gear, a small lifestyle brand in Colorado centered on happiness and giving back. (The company’s official slogan: “Feel Good. Do Good. Pass It On.”) Every Trek Light Gear blanket is woven by hand on a traditional loom, making each piece a unique, one-of-a-kind work of art. Environmentally friendly, they’re created with 100% post-consumer recycled materials; plus, a tree is planted for every purchase, so your lucky recipient can enjoy the wonders of our beautiful planet while knowing their new favorite gift helped secure its future for the next generation.
Embossed with our Esalen logo, the explorer journal features a refillable center with space to store a pen alongside inner thoughts, memories, stories, ideas, and more. Journaling enriches life and brings clarity: a tool to uncover the secrets, joys, and fears that may be lost or repressed. The act of writing can transfer fantasies, worries, and dreams to the page, which can help transform perception and outcomes. Present this journal to that special one who might benefit from slowing down, reflecting, and reconnecting with themselves. This gift can be that gentle nudge you’ve been meaning to give but haven’t known how — the small gesture that invites the discovery of one’s truest self.
The old axiom that we all need eight 8-ounce glasses per day has been debunked, but you’re still probably not getting enough water — and neither is your mom, your best friend, your next-door neighbor, your old college roommate, your ex, or your dog walker. Our stylish water bottle with an original sun wrap design is the perfect risk-free gift to improve the health and quality of life of anyone on your holiday shopping list. This green-colored 25 oz insulated bottle has a stainless steel body, a unique flip top with a safety, and an easy-carrying handle that lets its well-quenched owners bring it everywhere. Get it for your favorite dehydrated human ASAP!
Put the adorable tot in your life — child, nephew, niece, or friend’s kid — on the human potentiality path early with this Esalen long-sleeved sweatshirt. (Size 3T is for children three years old, approximately between 28–32 lbs.) Featuring the Big Sur/Esalen logo, it’s made of soft cotton, is available in heather gray, and will make your little friend look well-dressed and ready to change the world.
Get the smells and spirits found at and around Esalen to excite the olfactory system! Made of essential oils, these aromatics mists come in two different scents to emotionally and sensually capture Big Sur. The Big Sur Woods Aromatic Mist combines the aromas of the spruce, fir, and cedarwood that grow locally, while Big Sur Meadow Aromatic Mist mixes lavender, sage, and mint. Perfect for those who miss the heavenly yet natural fragrances found on campus (and anyone who has yet to experience them).
In the follow-up to the bestselling Finding Muchness, the cutest baby bear ever put to paper spends a day wonder-struck at the miracles of life: a butterfly landing on his nose, attempted handstands on the forest floor, a glorious sunset sinking into the ocean horizon, and many other small and lovely moments. (Some of the artwork — minimalist yet stuffed with joy and vulnerability — is like small, fragile magic.) The sparse and graceful accompanying prose offers perfectly simple-yet-poignant life lessons for kids of all ages. (Truth be told, these words of wisdom are possibly even more valuable for adult readers. Much like Charlotte’s Web, The Secret Garden, or The Giving Tree, this is an enlightened children’s book with simple truisms grown-ups could use but don’t get often enough. A burst of joy and epiphanies for any child — or the sensitive friend who might delight in the lightness.
Consider this healing rose quartz for anyone in your life who seeks more connection and love — including self-love. The crystal of unconditional love has been shaped into a heart (approximately 1 1/2" x 1 1/2") to create a symmetry of content and form. Rose quartz is believed to emit strong vibrations to open the heart and support emotional and relationship healing, as well as inspire compassion. If you can’t decide who needs some energetic and symbolic love most, get several and spread them around your friends and family, warming your entire emotional ecosystem (and making this a gift for you as well)!
Our California year-round staple, the Esalen beanie will snugly fit all the noggins on your gift list. The classic black creates a dramatic, sharp look, and the sewn soft tonal patch with our classic logo quietly signals knowledge and love of Esalen. The classic beanie was first worn in America in the 1900s by outdoorsmen for warmth and by factory workers to keep their hair and scalp clean on the job without a brim getting in the way. The style still evokes that utilitarian, no-nonsense pragmatism — just right for the busy, practical person on your gift list! Or, perhaps, anyone who needs to keep their head warm this winter? (Actually, that’s … everybody? You can just get this for everybody!)
Perfect for books, journals, groceries, and everyday items. At 16"x16", the new lightweight version of our popular reusable cotton canvas tote bag is the ideal carryall for both daily life and travel adventures — with the Esalen logo stacked in either seasonal fall orange or bright blue. Give this one to the person you know with just too much on their hands, either literally or figuratively. Great to throw a few necessities together when here at Esalen for a workshop and some tub time!
Finally, your loved ones can receive any or all of these items (or many other delightful things) when you present them with the gift of possibility and choice! Pass along the magic of Esalen to your nearest and dearest with our digital gift certificates, available in $25, $50, $100, $150, and $250 denominations. Visit shop.esalen.org for a wider selection of presents, including everything on this list! (Please note: These digital gift cards have no expiration date, are for single use only, and are not redeemable for cash. They are only for online purchases and cannot be used for accommodations or anywhere on campus.)
“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?
It’s that time of year again. You’ve got gifts to buy and you want your generosity to be meaningful, not superficial. Also, like us, you love Esalen and want to share that love, the vibes, with those around you. Our carefully curated gift guide is designed to help you express your love and friendship with items that reflect adventure, healing, and growth. Find the perfect things for your dreamers and seekers with the Esalen Holiday Gift Guide!
If you’ve ever struggled to explain this place to the people in your life – Is it a retreat? Sort of, but it’s more than that. An institute? An oasis? A site for revelation? Yes, all that and so much more! — then get them this all-encompassing history of the holistic educational center known as Esalen. Or, as the author puts it, “a utopian experiment creatively suspended between the revelations of the religions and the democratic, pluralistic and scientific revolutions of modernity.” Deeply researched, beginning with the institute’s founding in 1962 by Michael Murphy and Richard Price, this book recounts many of Esalen’s eras, iterations, and history-changing moments along with numerous scholars, philosophers, counterculture figures, celebrities, and geniuses that have graced these grounds. It’s the perfect present for those who have already experienced Esalen (but wish to know more), a fantastic introduction for novices (who require a little context before booking their first workshop), and an extraordinary synthesis of personalities, events, and histories — all compiled through Kripal’s beautiful prose. From The Atlantic Monthly’s 2007 review, “That he reconciles all this while barely batting an eye is remarkable; that he does so while writing with such élan is nothing short of wondrous.”
Gift the power of gratitude with 64 beautifully designed cards with original illustrations and inspiring quotes for guidance and positivity. This uplifting stocking stuffer can be a spiritual assist for anyone looking to cultivate a daily gratitude practice to help carry them through their days, no matter what hand they are dealt. Each deck also comes with a 176-page guidebook on the practice of gratitude and a keepsake storage box.
The perfect comfort item to make hiking adventures, impromptu park picnics, and communions with nature cozy, luxurious, and inviting. It’s the ultimate outdoor blanket, created through Esalen’s partnership with Trek Light Gear, a small lifestyle brand in Colorado centered on happiness and giving back. (The company’s official slogan: “Feel Good. Do Good. Pass It On.”) Every Trek Light Gear blanket is woven by hand on a traditional loom, making each piece a unique, one-of-a-kind work of art. Environmentally friendly, they’re created with 100% post-consumer recycled materials; plus, a tree is planted for every purchase, so your lucky recipient can enjoy the wonders of our beautiful planet while knowing their new favorite gift helped secure its future for the next generation.
Embossed with our Esalen logo, the explorer journal features a refillable center with space to store a pen alongside inner thoughts, memories, stories, ideas, and more. Journaling enriches life and brings clarity: a tool to uncover the secrets, joys, and fears that may be lost or repressed. The act of writing can transfer fantasies, worries, and dreams to the page, which can help transform perception and outcomes. Present this journal to that special one who might benefit from slowing down, reflecting, and reconnecting with themselves. This gift can be that gentle nudge you’ve been meaning to give but haven’t known how — the small gesture that invites the discovery of one’s truest self.
The old axiom that we all need eight 8-ounce glasses per day has been debunked, but you’re still probably not getting enough water — and neither is your mom, your best friend, your next-door neighbor, your old college roommate, your ex, or your dog walker. Our stylish water bottle with an original sun wrap design is the perfect risk-free gift to improve the health and quality of life of anyone on your holiday shopping list. This green-colored 25 oz insulated bottle has a stainless steel body, a unique flip top with a safety, and an easy-carrying handle that lets its well-quenched owners bring it everywhere. Get it for your favorite dehydrated human ASAP!
Put the adorable tot in your life — child, nephew, niece, or friend’s kid — on the human potentiality path early with this Esalen long-sleeved sweatshirt. (Size 3T is for children three years old, approximately between 28–32 lbs.) Featuring the Big Sur/Esalen logo, it’s made of soft cotton, is available in heather gray, and will make your little friend look well-dressed and ready to change the world.
Get the smells and spirits found at and around Esalen to excite the olfactory system! Made of essential oils, these aromatics mists come in two different scents to emotionally and sensually capture Big Sur. The Big Sur Woods Aromatic Mist combines the aromas of the spruce, fir, and cedarwood that grow locally, while Big Sur Meadow Aromatic Mist mixes lavender, sage, and mint. Perfect for those who miss the heavenly yet natural fragrances found on campus (and anyone who has yet to experience them).
In the follow-up to the bestselling Finding Muchness, the cutest baby bear ever put to paper spends a day wonder-struck at the miracles of life: a butterfly landing on his nose, attempted handstands on the forest floor, a glorious sunset sinking into the ocean horizon, and many other small and lovely moments. (Some of the artwork — minimalist yet stuffed with joy and vulnerability — is like small, fragile magic.) The sparse and graceful accompanying prose offers perfectly simple-yet-poignant life lessons for kids of all ages. (Truth be told, these words of wisdom are possibly even more valuable for adult readers. Much like Charlotte’s Web, The Secret Garden, or The Giving Tree, this is an enlightened children’s book with simple truisms grown-ups could use but don’t get often enough. A burst of joy and epiphanies for any child — or the sensitive friend who might delight in the lightness.
Consider this healing rose quartz for anyone in your life who seeks more connection and love — including self-love. The crystal of unconditional love has been shaped into a heart (approximately 1 1/2" x 1 1/2") to create a symmetry of content and form. Rose quartz is believed to emit strong vibrations to open the heart and support emotional and relationship healing, as well as inspire compassion. If you can’t decide who needs some energetic and symbolic love most, get several and spread them around your friends and family, warming your entire emotional ecosystem (and making this a gift for you as well)!
Our California year-round staple, the Esalen beanie will snugly fit all the noggins on your gift list. The classic black creates a dramatic, sharp look, and the sewn soft tonal patch with our classic logo quietly signals knowledge and love of Esalen. The classic beanie was first worn in America in the 1900s by outdoorsmen for warmth and by factory workers to keep their hair and scalp clean on the job without a brim getting in the way. The style still evokes that utilitarian, no-nonsense pragmatism — just right for the busy, practical person on your gift list! Or, perhaps, anyone who needs to keep their head warm this winter? (Actually, that’s … everybody? You can just get this for everybody!)
Perfect for books, journals, groceries, and everyday items. At 16"x16", the new lightweight version of our popular reusable cotton canvas tote bag is the ideal carryall for both daily life and travel adventures — with the Esalen logo stacked in either seasonal fall orange or bright blue. Give this one to the person you know with just too much on their hands, either literally or figuratively. Great to throw a few necessities together when here at Esalen for a workshop and some tub time!
Finally, your loved ones can receive any or all of these items (or many other delightful things) when you present them with the gift of possibility and choice! Pass along the magic of Esalen to your nearest and dearest with our digital gift certificates, available in $25, $50, $100, $150, and $250 denominations. Visit shop.esalen.org for a wider selection of presents, including everything on this list! (Please note: These digital gift cards have no expiration date, are for single use only, and are not redeemable for cash. They are only for online purchases and cannot be used for accommodations or anywhere on campus.)
“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?
It’s that time of year again. You’ve got gifts to buy and you want your generosity to be meaningful, not superficial. Also, like us, you love Esalen and want to share that love, the vibes, with those around you. Our carefully curated gift guide is designed to help you express your love and friendship with items that reflect adventure, healing, and growth. Find the perfect things for your dreamers and seekers with the Esalen Holiday Gift Guide!
If you’ve ever struggled to explain this place to the people in your life – Is it a retreat? Sort of, but it’s more than that. An institute? An oasis? A site for revelation? Yes, all that and so much more! — then get them this all-encompassing history of the holistic educational center known as Esalen. Or, as the author puts it, “a utopian experiment creatively suspended between the revelations of the religions and the democratic, pluralistic and scientific revolutions of modernity.” Deeply researched, beginning with the institute’s founding in 1962 by Michael Murphy and Richard Price, this book recounts many of Esalen’s eras, iterations, and history-changing moments along with numerous scholars, philosophers, counterculture figures, celebrities, and geniuses that have graced these grounds. It’s the perfect present for those who have already experienced Esalen (but wish to know more), a fantastic introduction for novices (who require a little context before booking their first workshop), and an extraordinary synthesis of personalities, events, and histories — all compiled through Kripal’s beautiful prose. From The Atlantic Monthly’s 2007 review, “That he reconciles all this while barely batting an eye is remarkable; that he does so while writing with such élan is nothing short of wondrous.”
Gift the power of gratitude with 64 beautifully designed cards with original illustrations and inspiring quotes for guidance and positivity. This uplifting stocking stuffer can be a spiritual assist for anyone looking to cultivate a daily gratitude practice to help carry them through their days, no matter what hand they are dealt. Each deck also comes with a 176-page guidebook on the practice of gratitude and a keepsake storage box.
The perfect comfort item to make hiking adventures, impromptu park picnics, and communions with nature cozy, luxurious, and inviting. It’s the ultimate outdoor blanket, created through Esalen’s partnership with Trek Light Gear, a small lifestyle brand in Colorado centered on happiness and giving back. (The company’s official slogan: “Feel Good. Do Good. Pass It On.”) Every Trek Light Gear blanket is woven by hand on a traditional loom, making each piece a unique, one-of-a-kind work of art. Environmentally friendly, they’re created with 100% post-consumer recycled materials; plus, a tree is planted for every purchase, so your lucky recipient can enjoy the wonders of our beautiful planet while knowing their new favorite gift helped secure its future for the next generation.
Embossed with our Esalen logo, the explorer journal features a refillable center with space to store a pen alongside inner thoughts, memories, stories, ideas, and more. Journaling enriches life and brings clarity: a tool to uncover the secrets, joys, and fears that may be lost or repressed. The act of writing can transfer fantasies, worries, and dreams to the page, which can help transform perception and outcomes. Present this journal to that special one who might benefit from slowing down, reflecting, and reconnecting with themselves. This gift can be that gentle nudge you’ve been meaning to give but haven’t known how — the small gesture that invites the discovery of one’s truest self.
The old axiom that we all need eight 8-ounce glasses per day has been debunked, but you’re still probably not getting enough water — and neither is your mom, your best friend, your next-door neighbor, your old college roommate, your ex, or your dog walker. Our stylish water bottle with an original sun wrap design is the perfect risk-free gift to improve the health and quality of life of anyone on your holiday shopping list. This green-colored 25 oz insulated bottle has a stainless steel body, a unique flip top with a safety, and an easy-carrying handle that lets its well-quenched owners bring it everywhere. Get it for your favorite dehydrated human ASAP!
Put the adorable tot in your life — child, nephew, niece, or friend’s kid — on the human potentiality path early with this Esalen long-sleeved sweatshirt. (Size 3T is for children three years old, approximately between 28–32 lbs.) Featuring the Big Sur/Esalen logo, it’s made of soft cotton, is available in heather gray, and will make your little friend look well-dressed and ready to change the world.
Get the smells and spirits found at and around Esalen to excite the olfactory system! Made of essential oils, these aromatics mists come in two different scents to emotionally and sensually capture Big Sur. The Big Sur Woods Aromatic Mist combines the aromas of the spruce, fir, and cedarwood that grow locally, while Big Sur Meadow Aromatic Mist mixes lavender, sage, and mint. Perfect for those who miss the heavenly yet natural fragrances found on campus (and anyone who has yet to experience them).
In the follow-up to the bestselling Finding Muchness, the cutest baby bear ever put to paper spends a day wonder-struck at the miracles of life: a butterfly landing on his nose, attempted handstands on the forest floor, a glorious sunset sinking into the ocean horizon, and many other small and lovely moments. (Some of the artwork — minimalist yet stuffed with joy and vulnerability — is like small, fragile magic.) The sparse and graceful accompanying prose offers perfectly simple-yet-poignant life lessons for kids of all ages. (Truth be told, these words of wisdom are possibly even more valuable for adult readers. Much like Charlotte’s Web, The Secret Garden, or The Giving Tree, this is an enlightened children’s book with simple truisms grown-ups could use but don’t get often enough. A burst of joy and epiphanies for any child — or the sensitive friend who might delight in the lightness.
Consider this healing rose quartz for anyone in your life who seeks more connection and love — including self-love. The crystal of unconditional love has been shaped into a heart (approximately 1 1/2" x 1 1/2") to create a symmetry of content and form. Rose quartz is believed to emit strong vibrations to open the heart and support emotional and relationship healing, as well as inspire compassion. If you can’t decide who needs some energetic and symbolic love most, get several and spread them around your friends and family, warming your entire emotional ecosystem (and making this a gift for you as well)!
Our California year-round staple, the Esalen beanie will snugly fit all the noggins on your gift list. The classic black creates a dramatic, sharp look, and the sewn soft tonal patch with our classic logo quietly signals knowledge and love of Esalen. The classic beanie was first worn in America in the 1900s by outdoorsmen for warmth and by factory workers to keep their hair and scalp clean on the job without a brim getting in the way. The style still evokes that utilitarian, no-nonsense pragmatism — just right for the busy, practical person on your gift list! Or, perhaps, anyone who needs to keep their head warm this winter? (Actually, that’s … everybody? You can just get this for everybody!)
Perfect for books, journals, groceries, and everyday items. At 16"x16", the new lightweight version of our popular reusable cotton canvas tote bag is the ideal carryall for both daily life and travel adventures — with the Esalen logo stacked in either seasonal fall orange or bright blue. Give this one to the person you know with just too much on their hands, either literally or figuratively. Great to throw a few necessities together when here at Esalen for a workshop and some tub time!
Finally, your loved ones can receive any or all of these items (or many other delightful things) when you present them with the gift of possibility and choice! Pass along the magic of Esalen to your nearest and dearest with our digital gift certificates, available in $25, $50, $100, $150, and $250 denominations. Visit shop.esalen.org for a wider selection of presents, including everything on this list! (Please note: These digital gift cards have no expiration date, are for single use only, and are not redeemable for cash. They are only for online purchases and cannot be used for accommodations or anywhere on campus.)
“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
