Esalen Massage Practitioners

Below is a list of regularly available practitioners. Their specialties can be experienced in pure form or in combination. At times, specially invited guest practitioners are available. We also offer alternative bodywork modalities in "Room 23," which including Cortical Field Reeducation, Craniosacral work, Feldenkrais, Rolfing and more.

Alana Cain – My massage includes long interconnecting strokes that glide with the fluidity of a dance, to enter that rhythm where breathing...heartbeat...transcend, coinciding with the flow of the ocean...when all things become magic.

Ann Mehling – I like to give a complete and thorough massage giving attention to every part of the body to obtain a sense of wholeness and completeness in the dimensions of body, soul, and spirit. My massage integrates various techniques (such as Deep Tissue, Trager, Trigger Point, energy, classical) into one continuous flow. My hands are, for me, the medium with which I can convey unconditional acceptance, loving attention, healing touch, and presence.

Ardell Hill – As an experienced massage therapist, I have built a resonance with bodywork; Deep Tissue, Reflexology, Craniosacral, and LaStone™, blended with Esalen massage. My intention is to help you recognize and release tension held in your body. I use muscle manipulation, stretches and breath work to assist you in your massage experience.

Ariana Satayathum – I offer the opportunity to experience the natural agility, alignment, and structure of your body's unique architecture. My work embodies a refined balance of anatomical precision and graceful fluidity that originates from my background in competitive sports, dance, yoga, medical anatomy, and Thai Massage. In your session, my ultimate goal is to synchronize your breath and your body, with its kinesthetic patterns, and to stimulate the cellular gateway towards optimal vitality, happiness, and relaxation.

Benj Langdon – My massage, a meditation on presence, is intended to help you come closer to those effortless, flowing states associated with optimal performance, self-healing, and peak experience. It is inspired by my own model of expanding human functioning with essential elements drawn from Esalen Massage, Tai Chi, Gestalt, psychosynthesis, expressive movement, Ericksonian hypnosis, and Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement^®.

Brita Ostrom – I use movement within the context of a flowing, relaxing massage to reach deep within the body and release old habitual patterns. I direct my attention toward a feeling of real peace and acceptance, of organic wholeness, of balance. I work deeply or lightly as needed to release tense areas and to make connections towards aware, tension-free living. I also use my Gestalt awareness training for integrative sessions combining body awareness with psychological process when workspace allows for sound and talk. I am a licensed MFCC.

Carl Swanson – By listening to your needs with my hands and my heart, as well as my ears, I create a session that is unique for you, supporting and guiding you towards deep relaxation and healing. My classic Esalen massage session is a slow dance that blends long flowing strokes, gentle rocking and stretching, and precise deeper muscular tissue work. Sessions may also draw from my study/practice of Thai Massage, Reflexology, Yoga, and Reiki.

Char Pias - I've been a bodyworker at Esalen since 1980. Utilizing a wide range of skills and working with body/mind/spirit, I address your particular needs. I've been described as using " a gentle strength". My specialty is facilitating the release of energetic blocks and deep chronic tension. As a senior practitioner, my main focus is teaching; Esalen Massage, Therapeutic Massage, Komyo Reiki. I am also a Chopra Center Raja Yoga Teacher and a Tai Chi Easy Leader.

Chloe Spellman –During a massage session, my intention is to create a nurturing, relaxing, and therapeutic experience where people can become receptive to the healing energy within themselves. I have studied a variety of modalities including Esalen, Thai, Deep Tissue, Craniosacral, Prenatal, and Hendrickson Method orthopedic massage. I am also a certified yoga teacher. I believe the practice of both yoga and massage complement one another to help people find expanded presence and opening in their bodies.

Christiane Weltch –In my massage I focus on relaxation and well-being through the use of deep nurturing contact, presence and flowing movement. I combine gentle stretches with long integrative strokes, elements of Deep Tissue, Shiatsu and Thai Massage to assist my client in opening energy pathways, increasing body awareness and letting go of holding patterns.

C-Jay Bradbury – A practitioner at Esalen since 1987, my "Tai Chi" practice continues to stimulate and guide my work. Following my initial interview with you, I will lead you on an effortless journey of relaxing, stress releasing movements, and massage strokes, supportive of a relaxed body, which of course, supports a quiet mind. The degree of movement and depth of pressure will be tailored to you and altered whenever a change of rhythm is desirable. The Ocean sets the tone of an "Esalen" massage.

Daniel Muñoz – You and I will dance through fluid movements with caring and loving energy. I listen and respond, bringing my full-hearted presence to the table. Through influences of Trager, Watsu, and Thai massage, my phenomenal touch allows the sacred spirit to free you to become your unique truth.

Daniela (Dani) Urbassek – I see massage as a way to remind the body of its full potential to move more freely. My intention is to support an ever-increasing awareness of the whole body, creating space for the release of tensions and unnecessary holding patterns. I use a wide spectrum of modalities from deep muscular work, joint mobilization, and elongating stretches to energy work and fine-tuning. By utilizing a strong foundation in Esalen Massage, I include elements of Sports Massage, Reflexology, and Craniosacral work to bring progressive relaxation and wholeness.

Daphne Johnson – "Work is love made visible," -Kahlil Gibran. My work is a joy and an honor, and I consider every client as an individual blessing in my life. I trust your body to guide me; through my touch, you can become aware of your unique and beautiful ability to heal. Full body strokes, intuitive and slow, allow your body to soften, move, and breathe. Contracted muscles melt, welcoming the integration of slow deep bodywork. The ocean tides pulse through your veins, as you are rocked into sweet surrender.

Deborah Anne Medow – A practitioner at Esalen since the late 1960's, I combine long lengthening strokes and slow deep work along with elements of Esalen^® massage, soft tissue work, quiet chanting, Craniosacral work, Reiki, Polarity Therapy, and integrative bodywork. All are designed to balance the body energies, enabling the client to release chronic tension and stress patterns, restoring fluidity of movement, and allowing the body, mind, and spirit to feel free and rested in their natural harmonious state. A certified nutrition educator and Zumba^® dance instructor, I am also available to teach private massage, nutrition education, and yoga lessons.

Ellen Watson – I have studied, practiced and taught massage and movement at Esalen since 1984. My massage style reflects my love of movement, singing and chanting, essential oils, spiritual healing, music, breathwork, and the natural sensuousness of the human body. While developing my own style, The Art of Essential Touch, I received over 1,000 professional sessions with bodyworkers, healers, ministers, movement artists, breathworkers, shamans and gurus. In creating the best session for each client, I call on all my experiences as both giver and receiver. My wish for you is to end our session deeply relaxed, refreshed, and in closer touch with your essential well-being.

Erlinda Hiscock – As a nurturing and eclectic bodyworker, I have studied a variety of modalities including Therapeutic Massage, Deep Tissue, Swedish, Energetic, Craniosacral, and Lymphatic Drainage. A long-time Big Sur artist, I feel my passion as a painter both complements and supports my intuitive approach and sense of touch.

Harmony (Johanna) Alsen - In my massage, I intuitively connect gentle deep work with long integrative strokes of Esalen^® massage. My experience with Deep Tissue, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, Thai yoga massage, Craniosacral, and energy balancing inspires my work. In a symphony of loving intention, varied strokes, opening stretches, and breath-work, inspired by the waves of the ocean, I invite deep relaxation and free energy flow to create an experience of integration.

Heather Elizabeth James – As a dancer, percussionist and bodyworker, my style is fluid, rhythmic, and heart-centered. I draw upon an eclectic blend of modalities, which include Esalen^®, Craniosacral, Acupressure, Reflexology and La Stone therapy. I invite the dance of energy between giver and receiver to evoke a unique session that magically unfolds just for you. Let the warmth and experience of my hands address your specific needs and nurture you into bliss.

Jud (Thomas) Varner – I listen quietly to support unwinding and release, stimulating healing and spiritual renewal. My work is rooted in the classic Esalen^® massage with long flowing strokes, gentle stretches, and a strong quality of presence, along with elements of acupressure, energy work, and deep tissue.

Kathleen McCombie – Blending the nurturing long strokes of Esalen Massage and therapeutic detail work of Deep Tissue and Shiatsu, my massage leaves you feeling both deeply relaxed and physically integrated. My intention is to assist you in healing, by bringing your awareness to the 'holding' areas of your body, and working with your breath to allow tension to release, My long glowing strokes remind the body of its interconnectedness, giving you the experience of feeling more unified, embodied, and whole. Breathe. Let Go. Unfold. Heal.

Kelly McKay – I give a nurturing massage, using strong flowing strokes and gentle stretches. I apply firm pressure in a sensitive way, creating a safe environment to release blocks within the body. My work intuitively encourages fuller breathing, allowing for deeper relaxation, restored vitality, and reduction of tension. Upon request, I also integrate Reiki and Craniosacral work.

Laura Zarcone – I am very grateful for the gift of connecting with people and helping them to heal themselves. I love my work. With over fourteen years of experience, I have studied Esalen style massage, Chi Nei Tsang, Swedish, and currently I am studying Craniosacral work. The massage I offer is a balance of stretching, fluid long strokes, and energy work. I also bring my background in Continuum and Sensory Awareness to the table…. Peace.

Les May – Warm fingers of sunshine caress the forest floor. Evergreen branches sway in the breeze. Water flows gently, powerfully into curves, slowly softening hard places. Light dances beautifully across boulders resting in the stream. Redwoods stand strong and still, supporting supple limbs above, embracing earth below. My hands embody the qualities of the forest, flowing like water, rocking gently like wind, warming like sunshine, gradually moving deeper with exquisite gentleness and strength, channeling nature's energies to lovingly awaken the body.

Lioness Parizek – I combine nurturing massage, reflexology and stretches. I use pressure points and encourage deep release while aligning the structure and balancing the body's energetic field. I work with body, mind and breath and like to engage you in an exploration of your health potential. My work consciously tracks and releases blocked energy and balances the nervous system. I am a registered nurse and a long-time member of the Esalen teaching staff.

Margaret Stevens I give a relaxing Esalen massage using a depth of pressure ranging from gentle to firm. With twenty years on the Esalen Massage Crew, I have studied Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, Zero-balancing, and foot reflexology. I enjoy the practice of yoga, dance, drawing, and singing as well as the art of massage.

Nora Matten –My massage is very loving and nurturing, yet deep. I work from my heart. My intention is to create a space of acceptance and safety in which change can happen through awareness… a dance of listening and responding, breath and movement, creating a sense of wholeness and well-being.

Oliver R. Bailey – A massage practitioner and teacher of Esalen^® massage for over 25 years, my massage incorporates a skillful blend of various types of bodywork, including elements of Trigger Point Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Acupressure, Craniosacral work, Reconnective Healing, and Esalen^® massage. I can do deep massage, lighter energetic work, or somewhere in between. I enjoy working with chronic neck and low back problems, as well as working with those who want to relax, de-stress, and recharge.

Paméla Espinoza – Aloha! My intention during our massage experience is to balance, clear, and nourish the currents of life flowing through the meridians and spiral patterns of the body. Like a flower unfolding, we blossom within an inter-connective shimmering wholeness. My original training was in Hawaii. Lomi lomi, Craniosacral, Mayan Abdominal Massage, Shiatsu, Chinese Medical Qi-gong, Esalen Massage, Swedish sports massage, and deep tissue Myofascial release are the forms I find useful for this journey. I am also available for focused Craniosacral sessions in Room 23.

Paul Moraca – In my massage sessions, I use the classic Esalen long strokes, with as much deep or light pressure as you like. Listening to your words and body, I give you the best possible massage in the current moment. Namaste.

Peggy Horan – My classic Esalen^® massage is given in a field of comfort and support, using stretches and deep muscle work to bring healing and relaxation to the client. I have been practicing and teaching Esalen massage for four decades and have written a massage book, Connecting Through Touch, A Couples Massage Book. .

Perry Holloman – My work focuses on touching the deep structures of the body in an effort to release chronic tension and holding, often at the root of chronic pain. Releasing chronic tension and pain can result in an increase in the flow of vital energy. In my work, special attention is paid to supporting this process, if, and when it occurs. An integral part of this process is freeing the breath, finding greater room and freedom to breathe.

Rob Wilks – My intention is to work with you and be present to your needs; I listen and then respond to the messages naturally given by your body, creating an experience of nurturing, deep relaxation, expansion, and release. I use integrating Esalen long strokes, combined with sensitive detailed work, deep tissue work, lengthening stretches, and gentle twists.

Sabina Loetscher – For me, massage is a silent body conversation with the client. While listening to my intuition, I explore dynamic Breema moves and the stillness of craniosacral work. I love to nurture and use the rhythms of breath to complete the circle of body, soul, mind, and spirit.

Seema Christie – Now is the time to know...That all that you do is sacred...HAFIZ
By touching gently with a nurturing style, what is called forth is relaxing and rejuvenating, and a beauty is uncovered in each person I touch. I offer you a strong base in energetic healing, yoga, Esalen slow long strokes, gentle holding, and intuitive touch. I am trained in Therapeutic hatha yoga, Craniosacral, Reiki, Spiritual massage, and extensive study in Esalen massage. The intention in my hands is one of compassion, creating a sacred healing massage.

Silvia Guersenzvaig – My specialty is accessing the neuro-skeletal structure of the body, which translates into a feeling of being contacted deeply. I use an array of techniques, including Esalen massage, Craniosacral and Intuitive healing, creating a unique type of bodywork. My discoveries in the field of Continuum movement led me to the creation of "BodyResonance," a form of drumming and still-point contact on bone structures, releasing deeper holding patterns, targeting areas such as the neck, back and shoulders, while promoting a deep state of balance and relaxation. I am also a practitioner and teacher of Transformational Kinesiology and an astrologer for over thirty years.

Susan Gries – My intention is to honor the sacred connection between the body, soul, and spirit with an open heart and a loving presence. My sessions are a dynamic flowing dance, reminding the body of its fluidity and innate wisdom. I incorporate my years of experience in Esalen massage, craniosacral therapy, deep muscle work, Thai massage, long stretches and balancing of the energetic bodies.

Tom Case – Using pressure points and the integrative Esalen style massage I work deeply into areas of tension, lengthening and opening. I balance this work with gentle nurturing strokes to promote relaxation and include stretching and joint manipulation to promote greater mobility.

Vicki Topp - My massage is supportive, nurturing, and a form of meditation. I work on multi-dimensional levels, integrating deep structural spiralic movements with a soft and sensitive use of pressure point, deep tissue work, and somatic balancing. I am a registered Movement Therapist, a practitioner of Body-Mind Centering, and a founding member of the Esalen Massage School.

Yoko (Kayo) T. Streeter - I provide deeply nurturing massage that invites the receiver to relax and release. With a grounded presence that is as reassuring as the waves, I meet each session. I am fluent in English and Japanese.

Esalen^® Massage, well-known for its long flowing strokes over the whole body, helps release the stresses of everyday life, leaving the receiver feeling whole, integrated and deeply relaxed, in a natural state of well-being. Esalen practitioners are dedicated to connecting deeply with each client and can usually accommodate specific requests and preferences within the Esalen^® massage modality.

Meet our guest practitioners.