ESALEN EXPERIENCES

Esalen provides three ways for people to experience its 27 acres and bohemian ethos: All-inclusive workshops: Weekend and five-day workshops including lodgings (special rates for those staying off-site), all meals, movement and meditation classes, evening programs, exploring the grounds and visiting the clothing-optional, spring-fed Esalen Baths. Most time frames offer a choice of three to four workshops on topics such as yoga, bodywork, meditation, nature and self-transformation. Some programs will be property-wide, including the Silent Yin/Yang Yoga Meditation Retreat, Jan. 8-13, and the Wisdom-Women Visionary Gathering, Jan. 13-15. Details at www.esalen.org Self-structured retreats: Those who can’t find a class that piques their interest can enjoy all of Esalen’s other perks during periodic, self-structured “A Time to Reflect” sessions. Remaining dates in 2016 are Friday-next Sunday, Dec. 2-4, and Dec. 18-23. The Jan. 6-8 session is “A Silent Time to Reflect,” when the entire property observes social silence. Weekend programs start at $400 for bunk-bed accommodations and $700 for standard rooms; five-day programs start at $765 and $1,095, respectively. For more dates and details, go to www.esalen .org/page/time-reflect Bodywork with bathing: Those not staying at Esalen can book a 75-minute Esalen massage or alternative bodywork that includes use of the Esalen Baths for an hour before and after the treatment for $185; reservations required. Details at www.esalen.org /page/massage-healing-arts-0 Night bathing: If you just want to soak in Esalen’s hot springs, you can — but only in the wee hours and only via online reservations, which most of the year require same-day (technically “day-before”) bookings. Offered from 1 to 3 a.m., night bathing costs $30. Details at https://nightbaths.esalen.org Esalen, 55000 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-3000, www.esalen.org