Brita Ostrom,
has led massage and somatic workshops at Esalen and internationally for more than 40 years. She is a founding member of the Esalen Massage School, practices Gestalt awareness work, and participated in Esalen’s two-year somatic education program. She is also a licensed psychotherapist.
Esalen® Massage in Motion
We live our lives in motion. A muscle appears static on the anatomy chart, and the ribs nicely align, but in fact we are reaching, bending, and coordinating dozens of fine motor skills every second. A joyous mood opens the limbs wider; an anxious thought freezes our breath and contracts our core. During this weekend, we will learn how to use lifting, passive joint rotations, gentle movement, and stillness to make our bodywork more effective, enjoyable for the receiver, and easier for the practitioner.
Esalen® Massage for Couples
Enjoy the serene beauty of Big Sur as you and your partner learn to give each other an effective massage. A tender touch can do wonders for any relationship by easing stress and deepening non-verbal communication skills. Emphasis will be on "hearing" with the hands, asking for what you need, and taking the time to truly nurture yourself and your partner. Sessions will include basic quieting exercises, brief demonstrations, hands-on guidance, and plenty of time for practice.