Esalen® Massage was born in the early 1960s at the Esalen Institute on the coast of Big Sur, California. Inspired by the natural beauty of the land, the human potential movement, and the pioneering work of bodywork and somatic practitioners such as Ida Rolf, Moshe Feldenkrais, Milton Trager, Charlotte Selver, and many others, it explores what it means to touch the body as a living whole.

Drawing from Western massage techniques and Eastern wisdom, Esalen® Massage is, at its core, an awareness practice. Practitioners begin by grounding themselves and attuning to breath and presence before engaging in touch. There is no fixed sequence; instead, the practitioner uses listening hands and a healing presence to hold a safe space in which the body and mind can naturally unwind. Esalen® Massage incorporates a range of techniques and theories, always working with the body rather than on it.

Scientific and Somatic Roots

Esalen® Massage integrates modern anatomical knowledge with ancient healing wisdom. Science has shown that the skin and nervous system are closely linked, both developing from the same embryonic tissue. Through rhythmic touch and massage, the body can shift into a parasympathetic state, where deep rest, regulation, and healing become possible. Sessions follow the body’s natural structure, respecting muscle flow and joint movement in ways that are safe and deeply attuned.

What to Expect in an Esalen® Massage Session

Sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes. Clients are usually asked to undress and will be covered with a sarong or towels. The drape covers the body, exposing only the area being worked on.

• The edge of the drape is regarded as a boundary, and under no circumstances may the practitioner place their hands beneath it.

• A hip drape is mandatory and may not be omitted at the client’s request.

• The use of a chest drape may be agreed upon by the client and practitioner depending on the circumstances. If no explicit discussion takes place, a chest drape is required by default.

During the massage, the practitioner applies an appropriate medium (e.g., oil or wax) to the skin. The approach to touch begins with soft, non-invasive contact, followed by various techniques such as Esalen’s signature long, flowing strokes, rhythmic rocking, and focused detail work. Pauses are incorporated to allow the body to integrate the work it has received.

Above all, the refinement and quality of the practitioner’s touch — combined with their presence — take precedence over any single technique. This foundation allows the practitioner to truly listen to the unique needs of the body, creating a session that supports the unfolding of the recipient’s innate wisdom and encourages personal healing.

This treatment is offered by: