by Kathy Gottberg

Learning about the farm and garden

Last week Thom and I spent six days at The Esalen Institute on the Big Sur coastline of California.  Esalen, as it is more commonly known, has existed for the last 50 years as a world-renowned sanctuary/retreat center perched on an eye-popping coastline in the central part of the state.  Started in 1962, some of the world’s leading philosophers, educators, activists, artists and thought leaders gathered at this site to explore the boundaries of human potential and consciousness.  Besides that, the facility structures itself as a model for sustainability, permaculture and organizational transformation.   Its vibrant and lush 5-acre garden and farm burst with flowers, plants and vegetables that feed and sustain both the visitors and staff.   Besides offering stunning landscapes for rest and rejuvenation, Esalen also features a fresh water creek, roaring ocean-side cliffs, and natural hot mineral spring baths.  Clearly, something for every seeker exists at Esalen.    Thom and I came to see for ourselves—and to take a workshop called, “Experiencing the Esalen Farm and Garden.” [Read more…]