No One captures the flag

From Esalen’s inception until today, no one captures the flag. As we explore new areas, we encourage conversations that are often neglected in traditional academic and religious venues. Esalen maintains a diversity of ideas that push the boundaries of what is possible.

The Institute has been a catalyst for new ways of thinking and being, but its explorations and dialogues don’t strictly define it. We explore meditation, but we are not a Buddhist center. We have been leaders in psychology, but we are not strictly beholden to one of its many schools.

Not capturing the flag means no one religion, no one school of thought, no one idea gains prominence over the rest. We have always been and will continue to be a place where a range of ideas can come together to create new possibilities. We are about making connections and we will continue to collaborate with people from around the world, across diverse fields of study and cultures, to ensure we never limit ourselves or our imaginations.