Side Navigation Bar Home Workshops The Place In the Air Information
Esalen Institute
Meditation Room

Work Study Program

The Work Study Program at Esalen is a 28-day program for those interested in an intense involvement with the Esalen environment and an in-depth experience of the Esalen approach to holistic personal and social development. An integrated work, service, and self-directed-learning program, it is rich, demanding, and often physically and emotionally challenging. Participants work 32 hours per week in one of Esalen’s departments and participate in that department’s programs and schedule.

At the heart of the Work Study experience is the core evening group, in which Work scholars meet together in a group, four to five evenings a week. The group emphasizes a particular approach to transformative practice, such as Gestalt process, meditative practice, creative arts, movement, bodywork, or other forms of somatics. The group has its own leader, or leaders (see schedule below), who is with the group throughout the program, coordinating the study schedule and facilitating many of the evening sessions. Applicants must be committed to staying at Esalen for the duration of the program.

There will be introductory evenings in which work scholars are introduced to the Institute’s legacy through core practices of the Esalen curriculum for integrated self-structured learning and self-directed education. The practices offered include skills in awareness (of self and others), intentionality, personal visioning, goalsetting, building support, communication and relational skills, self-evaluation, and integration of learnings into your own life.

In addition to the evening program, Work Scholars will be assigned to a work group in one of four departments, and will contribute approximately 32 hours a week to this work group. Esalen practices such as process and “check-in” will be woven into the work environment, providing rich opportunity for self- and group exploration during the day. Each participant’s work schedule will also allow for some participation in the daily open classes (movement, meditation, yoga, and more) if desired.

The Legacy program is a new monthlong program at Esalen that is structured differently than the traditional Work Study format. Legacy Scholars are in class with a mix of other scholars and Esalen staff interested in the particular subject. The Legacy program includes less class time and more flexibility for students. Class happens twice a week in the afternoon, with a more intensive day once during the month, for a total of 25 hours in-class time with approximately 5 hours of independent project work. In addition to the dedicated subject, Legacy Scholars are able to attend any of the additional staff trainings (Residential Education programs) that Esalen offers. The work group hours of the Legacy program (32 hours per week) and price are the same as the traditional Work Study program. For more information, please contact workstudy@esalen.org.

Since this is a work and service program, preference is given to applicants who are open and willing to learn about themselves within the work context as well as within the study/process groups. Because the work can be physically challenging (lifting, bending, etc.), it may not be suitable for all who wish to apply. First-month work students, in particular, are assigned to departments largely on the basis of community need (usually the kitchen or housekeeping).

Please note: The work study program is designed to explore and apply human values and potentials. It is not intended as a substitute for therapy or as a “cure.” It is a drug- and alcohol-free program. No pets, drugs, or violence allowed. We cannot accommodate children of work scholars.

Work scholars are selected by application only, to Work Study Coordinator Mary Anne Will. Please read further details below about applying for the Work Study Program.

Upcoming Work Study Programs

Each month there are 2 work study programs. One is called the Legacy program. The Legacy program is for people who are adaptable and can do independent study in the evenings as their group happens in the afternoon. The group is usually a maximum of 14 students—at least 8 staff and 6 work scholars—and the subject changes each month.

The work hours and fee are the same as for the main work study group. The way you will really get to know the main body of the work study people is outside of class. Week 1: Tuesday and Thursday, Week 2, 3 and 4: Monday and Thursday. Class times are 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm The Intensive is on Wednesday of the second or third week from 7 am-4 pm and offers the opportunity for in-depth practice. Weekly open seats will provide additional support for self-exploration. And you can go to the Visiting Teacher program in the evenings—usually the second and fourth weeks.or more information contact the Work Study Program.

Note: We are usually full with a wait list three months ahead. You need to apply to get on the wait list and your deposit is only processed if you get a spot and say yes. This happens 2 weeks or less before the program begins.

Thai Massage
March 14 - April 11, 2010

Thai massage, or nuad boran (translated as ancient healing touch) is a twenty-five-hundred-year-old healing tradition rooted in the very heart of Buddhism. A "moving meditation," Thai massage allows both practitioner and recipient to experience the four Divine States of Mind: Loving Kindness, Compassion, Equanimity, and Vicarious Joy. This program, led by Stephanie Shrum, offers an opportunity to study, practice, and understand the techniques of Thai massage. Thai massage uses rhythmic compression, rocking, acupressure, passive yogic stretching, percussion, and meditative presence. The program will also include dance, yoga, and movement practice. The training encourages whole-body participation, self-healing, deep understanding, creative response, and confidence in giving Thai assage treatments that are as healing for the giver as the receiver. No massage experience is necessary, just a desire to touch with presence and the intention to heal.

CE credit for bodyworkers; see page 97.

The Transformative Power of Emotion (Legacy Program)
March 14 - April 11, 2010

Living a full and connected life requires our capacity to feel and to make use of our emotional experience. Much of the alienation and separation that occurs in our relationships and family life is the result of the fear of feelings. We disconnect from our emotional life when we are afraid of being overwhelmed, humiliated, or perceived as weak or inadequate, only to pay the price later in isolation, anxiety, and depression. If we can be helped to feel safe enough to feel, we can reap the profound benefits of experiencing and exploring our emotions. Safety is created within the experience of accessing and expressing feelings in the company of an accepting, attuned, and understanding other. When we are accompanied in this way, the formerly frightening and intolerable sensations of our emotions can be not only tolerated but felt as an essential part of our vitality and our connection to other people. We can gain increased aliveness, presence, and the sense of freedom and mastery that comes from facing what we have avoided. Our relationships improve and deepen as a result of our ability to feel at ease with our own feelings and to be present with the feeling of others. In this workshop, we will create a safe and supportive environment in which our emotions can be met with curiosity, interest, and acceptance. This program, led by Dorothy Charles, combines Gestalt Process, guided imagery, small group work, dyadic awareness exercises, and discussion, group process and opportunities for open seat with the leader.

Finding Yourself Through Art (Legacy Program)
April 11 - May 9, 2010

Every one is an artist, just not everyone has found their medium. During the month with Bill Herr, coordinator of the Esalen Creative Arts Center, we'll explore a variety of creative arts: drawing, painting, writing, ceramics and cooking among them. We'll experience the synergy that can accompany playing with other creative spirits in a safe, supportive environment. Even though the creative process usually culminates in a "thing", you'll hopefully discover that the pleasure of art is not so much in the "thing" as it is in the process.

Bill Herr has been at Esalen for most of the last 25 years, working in several departments and engaged in a variety of creative arts. He has been the coordinator of Esalen's Art Center for the past three years, reprising a role he created in 1989.

$25 materials fee paid directly to the leader

Permaculture
April 11 - May 9, 2010

The answers and solutions to some of the world’s most pressing questions in relation to the environment, economics, and social systems are explored during this month-long permaculture design course that focuses on creating and designing a culture that is regenerative in nature. Together, scholars and teachers will create an open learning environment that includes discussion, activities, presentations, and hands-on projects. By using Esalen’s facilities, gardens, and work environments as a microcosm of the larger world, Benjamin Fahrer will facilitate this powerful and transformative journey together w ith a number of premier permaculture teachers.

Permaculture in essence is based in relationship and responsibility and is a set of techniques and principles for designing sustainable human communities. The skills one gains during this training include a base understanding of design and development principles used in small- and large-scale applications. Now more than ever we have to empower ourselves with these skills in these great times of transition.

Participants will be empowered with the confidence to live and function in a more just, sacred, and sustainable future.

Work scholars who complete this program can apply to enroll in a second month of permaculture training to be offered May 9–June 6, 2010. This 72-hour certification course in Permaculture Design enables participants to become certified through the TAGARI Permaculture Institute of Australia. As a graduate of this program, you will possess the skills to begin to design, consult and teach Permaculture anywhere in the world.

Writing Your Life
May 9 - June 6, 2010

If the story is in you, it has got to come out. —William Faulkner

Everything in your life, from the mundane to the extraordinary, is a story waiting to be told. This program, led by writer/performer Ann Randolph, focuses on the process of discovering your own unique and powerful stories. By writing from your deepest source, you will gain insight and self-understanding. You’ll learn how to make your words leap from the page to the stage, sharing them orally to uncover the power of storytelling to transform the lives of you and your listeners.

This workshop is full of heart and humor and asks its participants for a willingness to delve courageously past their perceived limits. Through improvisation, writing exercises, and group discussion, you will find your authentic voice, along with an honest, organic way to express your truth. You will also learn how to speak your truth via the Internet: guerrilla filmmaking, vlogging, and blogging. The month will culminate in a theatrical presentation for the Esalen community as well as the opportunity to post your work to youtube.com.

All levels are welcome. Topics include:

Permaculture Part 2 (Legacy Program)
May 9 - June 6, 2010

This is the certification part of the course for those who are staying on from last month.

Esalen for a New Century
June 6 - July 4, 2010

In today’s media and marketing age, a world that encourages us to conform and consume, how can we utilize practices developed at Esalen to evolve toward self-actualization and sustainable living? Over the past forty-five years, Esalen has pioneered a full curriculum for the human potential: mind, heart, body, spirit, nature, and community. This program, led by psychotherapist, cultural theorist, and New York University professor Bradley Lewis, will utilize experiential exercises, discussion, film, and other media to explore, in a group process setting, the Esalen curriculum and how it can help create growth that contributes to a more just and sustainable world.

Many evenings will be devoted to learning Esalen’s diverse practices for personal growth (such as Eastern wisdom, massage, personal and interpersonal group process, and creative expression). Inspired by the deep ecology movement we will spend time outdoors, immersed in nature, empathically connecting with the environment. The aim will be a full exploration of our own human potential - and its application in the world today.

Time & Space to Nourish Your Heart & Body (Legacy Program)
June 6 - July 4, 2010

When we lose our connection to our inner source, and our “creative spark” seems dormant, often feelings of overwhelm, confusion, and a lack of “clear guidance” emerge. For many people, a downward spiral can be set in motion which may result in a loss-of-ease (dis-ease), a lack of direction and meaning in life, culminating in an inner state often described as “depression”.

Opening to our true, essential nature, and aligning with the natural movement of pulsation (Sanskrit “Spanda”) we can reconnect with our heart’s desire to live a full life with clear purpose. Yoga’s secret to radiant health and beauty comes from aligning with this deeper vibratory current, or Spanda. As we practice “hugging in” of our muscle energy we stimulate our life energy, creating a sense of integrity with stability and support within the body. Balancing the drawing in and gathering of energy, we add the practice of “shining out” of life energy. This evokes the qualities of clarity, confidence and courage, which uplift the heart and illuminate the mind.

In this month Johanna Holloman will help you balance Yin and Yang aspects of Yoga practice, in turn balancing these two great aspects of being within ourselves. As we engage our hearts, minds and souls together in the dynamic, or Yang aspect of yoga asana practice, participants will discover new possibilities for self-healing, courage and inner awakening. We will be building strength and flexibility in a therapeutic way as well as developing more energy and vitality for our daily lives. The complementary gentle Yin- Yoga practice will help us open stiff, dried up and contracted places in our joints and connective tissue as well a cultivate a compassionate, less driven attitude towards ourselves and others. Recognizing the impact of our inner critic, we will move together in an atmosphere both challenging and supportive, helping each other to overcome whatever barriers arise as we journey into the ancient healing practice of yoga asana.

Sex of the Spirit
July 4 - August 1, 2010

We tend to think of sex and the spirit as separate, but they are not. Hence most of the cultural debates involving religion in the news involve some aspect of human sexuality (same-sex marriage, "family values," gay rights, celibacy, female ordination, abortion, etc.), The Last Temptation of Christ and The Da Vinci Code became mega hits, and great mystics have routinely described their transcendent experiences in sexual terms. How should one understand all of this? And how should we respond when traditional teachings result in moral confusion, emotional pain, political turmoil, and sexual suffering? What aren’t we getting here?

This program, led by Jeffrey Kripal, writer and teacher of comparative religion, provides a set of very practical tools, a sexual-spiritual craft, as it were, with which anyone can think and speak clearly, frankly, and compassionately about sex and religion. More specifically, the month will be organized around the life-stories of the participants themselves via open discussions, personal one-on-one mentoring, and journaling. A special session led by guest faculty Christine Price, longtime Gestalt practitioner, will be offered to help process emotional content in a deeper way. Additionally, optional Gestalt process sessions will be available and led by other Esalen Gestalt practitioners.

Touch and Presence: Subtle Palpation Skills (Legacy Program)
July 4- August 1, 2010

Touch is such a powerful tool for healing. Palpation that truly “meets the person” you are touching is a gift beyond compare. This level of palpation skill is composed of several elements. This interactive and experiential legacy month will explore each of these.

First, your inner awareness and ability to hold a therapeutic presence is the foundation of this process. Participants will work with the Full Body Presence book and audio download to cultivate their capacity to be present in a powerful, yet ethical, loving way. This experiential portion of the program will teach the practical steps to uncovering your unique inner energy roadmap – its strengths and growth areas.

Secondly, the capacity to hold a neutral space - with no agenda – is the key to excellent palpation. You will learn this foundation level of touch, which is utilized at all levels of CranioSacral therapy. One of Upledger’s original instructors, Suzanne Scurlock-Durana, will be sharing her 25 years of experience and wisdom during this segment of the program.

Thirdly is the capacity to recognize that human beings are healthy when energy flows in a balanced way within our systems. In this segment of the program, you will learn how to follow energy flow through the body and notice where restrictions are occurring. From there, using the meridian systems of Chinese medicine, Dr. Carlos Durana will mentor participants in how to listen with their hands, and how to use this kind of palpation to release restrictions, returning balance and better health.

Additionally, in the second half of the month, the Visiting Teacher program will offer an opportunity to be mentored by advanced CranioSacral therapists and to receive work in evening sessions. Participants are expected to attend at least 5 hours of this program to deepen their practice time.

CE credit for bodyworkers and nurses.
$10 materials fee paid directly to the leader (unless you purchase Full Body Presence before the program.)

Carlos Durana, Ph.D., M.Ac., Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM) is licensed as an acupuncturist and as a clinical psychologist; he is also a body worker and writer/researcher with many years of experience in Chinese herbology, medical Qigong, life and wellness coaching, meditation, stress management, exercise and nutrition. For more information go to www.Seasonsinourlife.com

The Ensemble Process
August 1 - 29, 2010

In the centuries-old tradition of ensemble theatre, individual charisma and creativity are vitally bound up with the greater energy of the group. Modern modes of expression and understanding from jazz to systems theory have affirmed the power of symbiosis. There is now a greater understanding of a model of leadership fueled not by the decisions of a single personality but by the pulse and wisdom of the ensemble.

During this program, Peter James Meyers, veteran stage director and leadership consultant, will help cultivate communication skills, self-assurance, and physical presence through a process of group discovery and performance.

Along the way, the group will practice movement, voice, and improvisation techniques that will allow each participant to amplify personal presence, enhance spontaneity, and heighten clarity of thought. In short, learn how to captivate a room and shape an audience's experience.

This is an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in blending performing arts with the art of leadership—expanding expressive skills while cultivating the ability to command and inspire. Participants will create an original theater piece to be offered to the Esalen community at the end of the month. Open to participants of all backgrounds and interests.

5Rhythms®: Dancing in the Present
August 29 - September 26, 2010

Through dance we move into the mind of awareness, attending to what is and arriving into the present, shedding the fear that keeps us from expressing our true nature. We were all born with the innate wisdom to dance, yet many of us have lost touch with this truth. During this program, Lucia Horan will lead the group toward reclaiming the power of the dance and awakening the healer within.

5Rhythms® is a moving meditation practice in which we explore the dynamic nature of the body. The practice is a map that helps us understand the natural rhythms of life as they move through us. We will enter the realms of the feminine mysteries through Flowing, the masculine mysteries through Staccato, the integration of feminine and masculine through Chaos, the mystery of joy and transformation through Lyrical. And finally, through Stillness, enter the dance of wisdom.

Additional practices include Esalen® Massage, expressive art (painting), writing and poetry, mantra (chanting), meditation, Native American sweat lodge (healing and purification ceremony, weather permitting), and sharing circles. All levels of experience are welcome. For more information, visit www.luciarose.com.

Streams of Energy
September 26 - October 24, 2010

Jim Gallas leads Streams of Energy, a program of Eastern bodywork and movement, including Reiki 1 Certification, a thorough overview of Shiatsu Massage, an introduction to meridian theory, and an easy-to-learn, powerful Chi Kung form. Various meditations, self-massage, and improv games will be used to encourage awareness and expression. The program is designed to open students to their own innate healing potentials, to the power of safe, therapeutic touch, and to being more fully present in their ongoing unfolding. Participants will also receive valuable tools to facilitate the healing of others. In a spirit of compassion, laughter, and expanding awareness, students will be nurtured and nourished by the group interaction and by a deeper connection to Self.

CEUs available for NCBTMB practitioners.

Nonviolent Communication
October 24 - November 21, 2010

I often say we've got a budget deficit that's important, we've got a trade deficit that's critical, but what I worry about most is our empathy deficit.—U.S. President Barack Obama

During this month of intensive immersion in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) principles and practices with Jean Morrison, participants are offered the opportunity to strengthen their ability to:

The sessions include a balance of playful exploration, thoughtful inquiry, powerful exercises for skill-development, and sharing of best practices with participants' real situations. Guest presenters will augment our NVC practice with their expertise in the Enneagram, Mindful Meditation, art, and movement.

CEUs available for MFTs and LCSWs.

Drawing Out Your Soul: Touch Drawing
November 21 - December 19, 2010

Touch Drawing is a simple yet profound process. It is a transformative art form developed by Deborah Koff-Chapin that allows for deep expression of the soul. The technique involves moving your hands on paper that has been placed over a surface of paint. The resulting impressions are seen on the underside of the page. Multiple images are created in a single session. It can feel like your soul is flowing through your fingertips and onto the paper. Touch Drawing helps develop somatic awareness, intuition, and creativity. It opens a portal to your multi-dimensional being. This program will combine Touch Drawing with complementary expressive arts practices. Deborah will gently guide you into deep drawing sessions, holding sacred space with live improvisational music. Writing, moving, vocalizing, and drumming will enhance the experience and help access insight from your drawings. Witnessing with partners and sharing in circle will support a sense of community.

The applications of Touch Drawing are endless. You will be encouraged to integrate Touch Drawing as a creative, therapeutic, and spiritual practice in your life and work. No artistic confidence necessary.

Applying for the Work Study Program

Your commitment to the Work Study Program is from 4 pm of the first Sunday to 7:30 pm of the final Sunday. Inasmuch as the Work Study Program is a complete program in itself, please do not plan to take regularly scheduled catalog workshops during your stay.

Program Fees

A deposit of $400 in U.S. currency is required with your application. You may pay in full at the time you apply. The work scholar fee schedule is $1,095 for the first month, $1,045 for the second month, and $995 for the third month. Work scholars may be invited to remain for a second or third month depending on space available and community needs (foreign nationals should contact the Work Study office for information on staying longer than one month). Work scholars may not stay longer than three months in a calendar year, nor longer than three consecutive months. There are no scholarships available for the Work Study Program. Occasionally it is possible to stay for a longer period as an Extended Student.

Food and Housing

Accommodations are shared (occasionally co-ed), with up to four people to a room, usually at South Coast Center, a staff complex located 1.5 miles north of Esalen. Housing and meals, often with home-grown organic produce, are included in your tuition.

Transportation

When making travel plans, note that the closest airport to Esalen is Monterey. With at least 48-hour advance reservations, van service to Esalen is available from the following locations on the Sunday of your arrival:

  • Monterey Airport: Departs 2 pm. Cost: $40
  • Monterey Transit Center: Departs 2:20 pm. Cost: $40
  • San Francisco Airport: Departs 11:45 am. Cost: $100

For van reservations call 831-667-3010 or contact the Work Study Program.

Registration Required

Please note that application is not registration in the program. Registration is made only after approval of application. If you do not pay in full at the time of application, the balance of the fee is due on arrival and is nonrefundable thereafter.

Cancellation Policy & Fees

If you choose to cancel, you will be charged the following amount:

Submitting Your Application

You can email the application form (PDF) to workstudy@esalen.org with your personal statement or print it out and mail it with your deposit to the address below, or fax it to (831) 667-3069.

Work Study Program
Esalen Institute
55000 Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920

We will contact you regarding your status within 14 days of receipt of your application. For more information contact the Work Study Program.

Contact the Work Study Program

Esalen Work Study Program
Phone: (831) 667-3010
Fax: (831) 667-3069
Email: workstudy@esalen.org