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.
Esalen’s resident roller skating massage therapist and “vibe curator” Nick Ayers talks about poolside parties, the musical massage table he invented, and having his very own superhero alter ego, Silky Slim (“He’s super tall and extra muscley,” Nick explains). This always-grateful member of the Healing Arts team shares some thoughts on how offering “unconditional invitation” is part of his work, and why being seen and understood — “vulnerably witnessed in one’s authenticity,” as Nick perfectly puts it — brings us closer to our humanity.
What is Esalen to you?
Esalen is as much a state of mind as it is a place. Esalen is the virtue that holds me to becoming my higher self. It is the buoy that tells me where my integrity lies. It is the beacon that reminds me to speak from my own experience. Not everyone has the privilege to visit this profound and beautiful healing sanctuary, and it’s up to us to proliferate the Esalen values and magic back to our communities at large.
What do you do/are you doing at Esalen?
I am a massage therapist on the Healing Arts team and a facilitator for dance/embodiment workshops and men’s groups. I also consider myself to be a vibe curator through hosting impromptu poolside dance parties, fireside musical jams, sound baths, and playing harp and piano in the Lodge before and after mealtimes. You might also catch me prancing around the oval on my roller skates.
Which living or dead person do you most admire in your field?
Deborah Anne Medow who holds an integral part of developing Esalen massage by working and teaching at the institute for over fifty years. She saw something in me, and pushed me really hard to become a great massage therapist. I would not be here at Esalen without her guidance, charity, and tutelage. She has bestowed me with her craft and accepted me as a peer. Now I’m lucky enough to call her one of my dearest friends.
What is your current state of mind?
Gratitude has always been the answer for me. I start to count my blessings and all of a sudden I’m so energized to give back to the universe; to help and serve others, which is a reward in and of itself. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
What about your work brings you the most happiness?
I love appreciating the physical change I see in people when they walk out of a massage or complete a workshop I’m hosting. The lightness of being, better posture, more color and blood flow in the skin, deeper breath and lower, relaxed, more musical voice. More clarity and focus in the eyes/ eye contact and the inspiration to show up more presently in their own lives. The work we do here at Esalen has a profound and immediate, lasting impact, and I’m so grateful to be a part of this portal for infinite healing potential.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would like to be better at selling myself and my creations. I have this invention called “The Wavetable.” It’s a vibrating musical massage bed that plays my original scores. It’s a unique way to experience massage through music, feeling the vibrations of each song on a cellular level. A new way to access profound healing, relaxation and regulation, by turning on the parasympathetic brainwaves with binaural beats and the magic of meditative, healing music. I think it could really help a lot of people.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Picking myself up off the ground. Whether I fall on my roller skates trying a new trick, decide that a job or career isn’t my path anymore, or losing a loved one in partnership, the resilience and perseverance I’ve learned I’m capable of through life’s adversities is something I’m proud of. No one’s coming to save me; no one will ever love me as much as I do. That self love is a relationship I curate and nurture a great deal.
What is your most treasured possession?
My immense collection of instruments are of high value, but I’ve always said my ears are my best instrument. It’s impossible to know what to play, or even when not to play, unless you are truly listening. I always want to serve the song (not my ego) as best as possible with my contributions. My hands are really special to me, as well. It’s through playing an instrument or gentle, loving touch that I communicate with the world just how much love in my heart there is.
How do you maintain your practice(s) during challenging times?
I am so blessed to have an arsenal of self regulation techniques in my toolkit, and it’s one of my greatest joys and privileges in life to share them with others by modeling these exercises. For me, it’s all about moving energy, and the quickest way to do that is by making contact with conscious breath. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, massage, music, exercise or play, the focus is going to be on the body and breath. That, to me, is the “work” that leads to the release of “feel good” chemicals in the brain, resulting in more constructive and healthy habits.
What is your favorite component of your work?
I think my real work is in the presence that I bring to life. Offering an unconditional invitation to join in the now, creating a safe container for people to drop their armor; if one has the capacity to hold this kind of space for others then they must, it’s just how it works. I find great reward and affirmation in watching the switch happen in people, from the time-traveling monkey mind (thinking about the past or worried about the future) to making contact with the joy and/or grief that’s present within them at that moment in time. Showing up in the presence of others to be vulnerably witnessed in one’s authenticity is a courageous act, one that makes us closer to being fully human.
What do you value most in your work/practice?
I feel a lot of integrity around creating a safe and trustworthy container for people to be vulnerably witnessed as their authentic selves. We, of course, verbalize this in our sharing circles, but there’s a way of presenting one’s self so that one’s energy is more articulate than their words. A sort of reverence to the specialness and impermanence of each unique constellation we create.
Who are your inspirations?
Nature is the master healer. The trees are my greatest teachers; they are my creator and ancestors. I’ve always been magnetically attracted to the woods and how the earth greets a large body of water.
Who is your hero of fiction?
I have this superhero version of myself I created called Silky Slim, that’s been really showing up for me the past few years. He’s patient, benevolent and kind, and says all the things I need to hear; a really good advice giver. He’s super tall and extra muscley, but moves with grace and a sweetly stoic nature. I really like that I can call on him when I forget what’s important or become overwhelmed.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
I really like Martin Luther King, Jr. Everyone knows of his prolific speech writing, but not a lot of people talk about what an incredible performer he was. There was such a strength yet sweetness that came from this stoic man, brimming with conviction. He was a magnificent singer; the music and tonality that came from his mouth when he spoke really moves me. I really identify with the concept that none of us are free until we are all free; none if us are well until we are all well.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My mom, Marlene. She has modeled to me so much patience, compassion, and unwavering love for those around her, near and far. She’s my best friend!
What is your motto?
I have a few. My grandpa Rusty used to say, “It’s possible!” Also, “Gratitude is the attitude” and “Just shine your light.”
“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?
Nick will be among the talent featured during our Summer Groove Series this June, plus he joins Douglas Drummond and drummer Sangha of the Valley for Return to Source: Authenticity in Motion, a 5Rhythms® Workshop, August 11–13, 2023.
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.
Esalen’s resident roller skating massage therapist and “vibe curator” Nick Ayers talks about poolside parties, the musical massage table he invented, and having his very own superhero alter ego, Silky Slim (“He’s super tall and extra muscley,” Nick explains). This always-grateful member of the Healing Arts team shares some thoughts on how offering “unconditional invitation” is part of his work, and why being seen and understood — “vulnerably witnessed in one’s authenticity,” as Nick perfectly puts it — brings us closer to our humanity.
What is Esalen to you?
Esalen is as much a state of mind as it is a place. Esalen is the virtue that holds me to becoming my higher self. It is the buoy that tells me where my integrity lies. It is the beacon that reminds me to speak from my own experience. Not everyone has the privilege to visit this profound and beautiful healing sanctuary, and it’s up to us to proliferate the Esalen values and magic back to our communities at large.
What do you do/are you doing at Esalen?
I am a massage therapist on the Healing Arts team and a facilitator for dance/embodiment workshops and men’s groups. I also consider myself to be a vibe curator through hosting impromptu poolside dance parties, fireside musical jams, sound baths, and playing harp and piano in the Lodge before and after mealtimes. You might also catch me prancing around the oval on my roller skates.
Which living or dead person do you most admire in your field?
Deborah Anne Medow who holds an integral part of developing Esalen massage by working and teaching at the institute for over fifty years. She saw something in me, and pushed me really hard to become a great massage therapist. I would not be here at Esalen without her guidance, charity, and tutelage. She has bestowed me with her craft and accepted me as a peer. Now I’m lucky enough to call her one of my dearest friends.
What is your current state of mind?
Gratitude has always been the answer for me. I start to count my blessings and all of a sudden I’m so energized to give back to the universe; to help and serve others, which is a reward in and of itself. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
What about your work brings you the most happiness?
I love appreciating the physical change I see in people when they walk out of a massage or complete a workshop I’m hosting. The lightness of being, better posture, more color and blood flow in the skin, deeper breath and lower, relaxed, more musical voice. More clarity and focus in the eyes/ eye contact and the inspiration to show up more presently in their own lives. The work we do here at Esalen has a profound and immediate, lasting impact, and I’m so grateful to be a part of this portal for infinite healing potential.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would like to be better at selling myself and my creations. I have this invention called “The Wavetable.” It’s a vibrating musical massage bed that plays my original scores. It’s a unique way to experience massage through music, feeling the vibrations of each song on a cellular level. A new way to access profound healing, relaxation and regulation, by turning on the parasympathetic brainwaves with binaural beats and the magic of meditative, healing music. I think it could really help a lot of people.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Picking myself up off the ground. Whether I fall on my roller skates trying a new trick, decide that a job or career isn’t my path anymore, or losing a loved one in partnership, the resilience and perseverance I’ve learned I’m capable of through life’s adversities is something I’m proud of. No one’s coming to save me; no one will ever love me as much as I do. That self love is a relationship I curate and nurture a great deal.
What is your most treasured possession?
My immense collection of instruments are of high value, but I’ve always said my ears are my best instrument. It’s impossible to know what to play, or even when not to play, unless you are truly listening. I always want to serve the song (not my ego) as best as possible with my contributions. My hands are really special to me, as well. It’s through playing an instrument or gentle, loving touch that I communicate with the world just how much love in my heart there is.
How do you maintain your practice(s) during challenging times?
I am so blessed to have an arsenal of self regulation techniques in my toolkit, and it’s one of my greatest joys and privileges in life to share them with others by modeling these exercises. For me, it’s all about moving energy, and the quickest way to do that is by making contact with conscious breath. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, massage, music, exercise or play, the focus is going to be on the body and breath. That, to me, is the “work” that leads to the release of “feel good” chemicals in the brain, resulting in more constructive and healthy habits.
What is your favorite component of your work?
I think my real work is in the presence that I bring to life. Offering an unconditional invitation to join in the now, creating a safe container for people to drop their armor; if one has the capacity to hold this kind of space for others then they must, it’s just how it works. I find great reward and affirmation in watching the switch happen in people, from the time-traveling monkey mind (thinking about the past or worried about the future) to making contact with the joy and/or grief that’s present within them at that moment in time. Showing up in the presence of others to be vulnerably witnessed in one’s authenticity is a courageous act, one that makes us closer to being fully human.
What do you value most in your work/practice?
I feel a lot of integrity around creating a safe and trustworthy container for people to be vulnerably witnessed as their authentic selves. We, of course, verbalize this in our sharing circles, but there’s a way of presenting one’s self so that one’s energy is more articulate than their words. A sort of reverence to the specialness and impermanence of each unique constellation we create.
Who are your inspirations?
Nature is the master healer. The trees are my greatest teachers; they are my creator and ancestors. I’ve always been magnetically attracted to the woods and how the earth greets a large body of water.
Who is your hero of fiction?
I have this superhero version of myself I created called Silky Slim, that’s been really showing up for me the past few years. He’s patient, benevolent and kind, and says all the things I need to hear; a really good advice giver. He’s super tall and extra muscley, but moves with grace and a sweetly stoic nature. I really like that I can call on him when I forget what’s important or become overwhelmed.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
I really like Martin Luther King, Jr. Everyone knows of his prolific speech writing, but not a lot of people talk about what an incredible performer he was. There was such a strength yet sweetness that came from this stoic man, brimming with conviction. He was a magnificent singer; the music and tonality that came from his mouth when he spoke really moves me. I really identify with the concept that none of us are free until we are all free; none if us are well until we are all well.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My mom, Marlene. She has modeled to me so much patience, compassion, and unwavering love for those around her, near and far. She’s my best friend!
What is your motto?
I have a few. My grandpa Rusty used to say, “It’s possible!” Also, “Gratitude is the attitude” and “Just shine your light.”
“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?
Nick will be among the talent featured during our Summer Groove Series this June, plus he joins Douglas Drummond and drummer Sangha of the Valley for Return to Source: Authenticity in Motion, a 5Rhythms® Workshop, August 11–13, 2023.
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.
Esalen’s resident roller skating massage therapist and “vibe curator” Nick Ayers talks about poolside parties, the musical massage table he invented, and having his very own superhero alter ego, Silky Slim (“He’s super tall and extra muscley,” Nick explains). This always-grateful member of the Healing Arts team shares some thoughts on how offering “unconditional invitation” is part of his work, and why being seen and understood — “vulnerably witnessed in one’s authenticity,” as Nick perfectly puts it — brings us closer to our humanity.
What is Esalen to you?
Esalen is as much a state of mind as it is a place. Esalen is the virtue that holds me to becoming my higher self. It is the buoy that tells me where my integrity lies. It is the beacon that reminds me to speak from my own experience. Not everyone has the privilege to visit this profound and beautiful healing sanctuary, and it’s up to us to proliferate the Esalen values and magic back to our communities at large.
What do you do/are you doing at Esalen?
I am a massage therapist on the Healing Arts team and a facilitator for dance/embodiment workshops and men’s groups. I also consider myself to be a vibe curator through hosting impromptu poolside dance parties, fireside musical jams, sound baths, and playing harp and piano in the Lodge before and after mealtimes. You might also catch me prancing around the oval on my roller skates.
Which living or dead person do you most admire in your field?
Deborah Anne Medow who holds an integral part of developing Esalen massage by working and teaching at the institute for over fifty years. She saw something in me, and pushed me really hard to become a great massage therapist. I would not be here at Esalen without her guidance, charity, and tutelage. She has bestowed me with her craft and accepted me as a peer. Now I’m lucky enough to call her one of my dearest friends.
What is your current state of mind?
Gratitude has always been the answer for me. I start to count my blessings and all of a sudden I’m so energized to give back to the universe; to help and serve others, which is a reward in and of itself. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
What about your work brings you the most happiness?
I love appreciating the physical change I see in people when they walk out of a massage or complete a workshop I’m hosting. The lightness of being, better posture, more color and blood flow in the skin, deeper breath and lower, relaxed, more musical voice. More clarity and focus in the eyes/ eye contact and the inspiration to show up more presently in their own lives. The work we do here at Esalen has a profound and immediate, lasting impact, and I’m so grateful to be a part of this portal for infinite healing potential.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would like to be better at selling myself and my creations. I have this invention called “The Wavetable.” It’s a vibrating musical massage bed that plays my original scores. It’s a unique way to experience massage through music, feeling the vibrations of each song on a cellular level. A new way to access profound healing, relaxation and regulation, by turning on the parasympathetic brainwaves with binaural beats and the magic of meditative, healing music. I think it could really help a lot of people.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Picking myself up off the ground. Whether I fall on my roller skates trying a new trick, decide that a job or career isn’t my path anymore, or losing a loved one in partnership, the resilience and perseverance I’ve learned I’m capable of through life’s adversities is something I’m proud of. No one’s coming to save me; no one will ever love me as much as I do. That self love is a relationship I curate and nurture a great deal.
What is your most treasured possession?
My immense collection of instruments are of high value, but I’ve always said my ears are my best instrument. It’s impossible to know what to play, or even when not to play, unless you are truly listening. I always want to serve the song (not my ego) as best as possible with my contributions. My hands are really special to me, as well. It’s through playing an instrument or gentle, loving touch that I communicate with the world just how much love in my heart there is.
How do you maintain your practice(s) during challenging times?
I am so blessed to have an arsenal of self regulation techniques in my toolkit, and it’s one of my greatest joys and privileges in life to share them with others by modeling these exercises. For me, it’s all about moving energy, and the quickest way to do that is by making contact with conscious breath. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, massage, music, exercise or play, the focus is going to be on the body and breath. That, to me, is the “work” that leads to the release of “feel good” chemicals in the brain, resulting in more constructive and healthy habits.
What is your favorite component of your work?
I think my real work is in the presence that I bring to life. Offering an unconditional invitation to join in the now, creating a safe container for people to drop their armor; if one has the capacity to hold this kind of space for others then they must, it’s just how it works. I find great reward and affirmation in watching the switch happen in people, from the time-traveling monkey mind (thinking about the past or worried about the future) to making contact with the joy and/or grief that’s present within them at that moment in time. Showing up in the presence of others to be vulnerably witnessed in one’s authenticity is a courageous act, one that makes us closer to being fully human.
What do you value most in your work/practice?
I feel a lot of integrity around creating a safe and trustworthy container for people to be vulnerably witnessed as their authentic selves. We, of course, verbalize this in our sharing circles, but there’s a way of presenting one’s self so that one’s energy is more articulate than their words. A sort of reverence to the specialness and impermanence of each unique constellation we create.
Who are your inspirations?
Nature is the master healer. The trees are my greatest teachers; they are my creator and ancestors. I’ve always been magnetically attracted to the woods and how the earth greets a large body of water.
Who is your hero of fiction?
I have this superhero version of myself I created called Silky Slim, that’s been really showing up for me the past few years. He’s patient, benevolent and kind, and says all the things I need to hear; a really good advice giver. He’s super tall and extra muscley, but moves with grace and a sweetly stoic nature. I really like that I can call on him when I forget what’s important or become overwhelmed.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
I really like Martin Luther King, Jr. Everyone knows of his prolific speech writing, but not a lot of people talk about what an incredible performer he was. There was such a strength yet sweetness that came from this stoic man, brimming with conviction. He was a magnificent singer; the music and tonality that came from his mouth when he spoke really moves me. I really identify with the concept that none of us are free until we are all free; none if us are well until we are all well.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My mom, Marlene. She has modeled to me so much patience, compassion, and unwavering love for those around her, near and far. She’s my best friend!
What is your motto?
I have a few. My grandpa Rusty used to say, “It’s possible!” Also, “Gratitude is the attitude” and “Just shine your light.”
“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?
Nick will be among the talent featured during our Summer Groove Series this June, plus he joins Douglas Drummond and drummer Sangha of the Valley for Return to Source: Authenticity in Motion, a 5Rhythms® Workshop, August 11–13, 2023.
Esalen Institute
55000 Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920
US: 1-831-667-3000
info@esalen.org
