Overview

Esalen Institute runs a nonprofit center that fosters human potential through experiential education and research. It sponsors and hosts workshops and residential programs that guide personal, spiritual, and social transformation for participants and staff, using a mix of experiential practices, seminars, and collaborative research. Programs are delivered through immersive experiences at its Big Sur campus, with about 12,000 visitors annually. That combination of experiential learning, spirituality-focused practices, and a retreat model differentiates Esalen from traditional academic or wellness centers, along with its long-standing history and emphasis on community living during programs. The organization aims to contribute to a more just, creative, and sustainable world by developing people’s capacities and sharing transformative methods.