Esalen Massage

Esalen Massage is a meditative, full-body experience rooted in the Big Sur tradition of mindful touch. Using long, flowing strokes and gentle rhythms, this holistic approach connects body, mind, and spirit—offering profound relaxation and emotional release. Developed at the legendary Esalen Institute, this style goes beyond traditional massage to create deep presence and inner stillness.

What is Esalen Massage?

Esalen Massage is a holistic, full-body massage technique developed at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California. It's known for its long, flowing strokes, gentle rocking, deep presence, and seamless integration of body, mind, and spirit. Unlike more clinical styles, Esalen focuses on creating a deeply relaxing and meditative experience that encourages emotional release, inner awareness, and physical healing. It blends elements of Swedish massage, mindfulness, energy work, and somatic awareness to support the body’s natural ability to heal and restore balance.

Bring the healing traditions of Big Sur's Esalen Institute to Pacific Grove, just minutes from Monterey, Carmel, and Pebble Beach.

The Benefits of Esalen Massage

Massage Benefits

Esalen Massage offers a wide range of physical, emotional, and energetic benefits. Some of the most notable include:

  • Deep relaxation – Calms the nervous system and reduces stress and anxiety.

  • Enhanced body awareness – Encourages mindfulness and a stronger connection between body and mind.

  • Improved circulation – Promotes better blood and lymph flow throughout the body.

  • Emotional release – Creates space for letting go of held tension and unresolved emotions.

  • Pain relief – Eases chronic tension, muscular discomfort, and postural imbalances.

  • Restored balance – Supports holistic well-being by aligning physical, mental, and emotional states.

  • Boosted energy flow – Clears stagnant energy and revitalizes the body’s natural healing processes.

Session Options & Pricing

Specialized bodywork in Pacific Grove, CA (serving Monterey, Carmel, Pebble Beach, and Seaside)

60 Minutes - $180

Perfect for first-timers, general relaxation, and smaller body types.

90 Minutes - $250

Ideal for larger bodies, more comprehensive treatments, and massage regulars.

120 Minutes - $360

Best suited for massage junkies who want the ultimate luxurious treatment.

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Selina’s approach

At the heart of every Esalen massage is a sacred, intuitive connection between therapist and client. Selina brings over two decades of experience not just in technique, but in presence—reading the body like a story waiting to unfold. Her approach is slow, fluid, and deeply intentional, using long integrative strokes that invite you to let go layer by layer.

Each session is a co-creation: Selina listens not only with her hands, but with her heart and awareness. She meets your nervous system where it is, guiding it toward balance through gentle rhythms, pauses, and sustained attention. The experience isn’t just about physical relief—it’s about feeling seen, safe, and gently returned to yourself.

Targeted lower back and hip massage at Selina’s Therapy Center to relieve pain, release fascia, and improve hip mobility.

What to Expect

Each Esalen session begins with a moment of grounding and intention-setting. You'll undress to your comfort level in a private space, then receive 60-120 minutes of long, flowing strokes that connect your entire body. Unlike traditional massage, there's minimal talking—allowing you to drop into a deeply meditative state. Sessions often include gentle rocking, joint mobilization, and sustained holds. Many clients report feeling emotionally lighter and physically renewed, with effects lasting days beyond the session.

Massage Therapy Reviews

Do I need meditation experience?

No. Esalen is accessible to everyone, whether new to massage or experienced with bodywork and mindfulness practices.

How long should my session be?

We recommend 90 minutes for your first Esalen massage. The flowing nature needs time to build rhythm and allow deep relaxation. 60-minute sessions are available, but 90-120 minutes provides the full experience.

Yes. The slow, rhythmic strokes calm your nervous system and move you out of fight-or-flight mode. Many clients feel grounded and peaceful for days after.

Is it good for stress and anxiety?

In stillness,
the body speaks — and through mindful touch, it remembers
how to heal.

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