Esalen Massage (Conscious Touch)
Combining Different Styles of Bodywork into One Holistic Therapy

Esalen massage combines the techniques used in Swedish massage with energy work. This style of massage is sometimes referred to as "conscious touch" because the therapist is required to be completely mentally present during the massage. The quality of touch is more important than the technique. The therapist tries to tune into the client's body.

This style of massage was created at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California in the 1960's. The Esalen Institute has workshops in psychology, outreach, activism, Eastern medicine, arts, religion and many other subjects. They believe in a holistic approach to health and life. The institute is often associated with the New Age Movement.

The best place to learn Esalen Massage is at the institute in Big Sur. There are a few people who are certified to teach it away from the institute, but that's generally discouraged. The people at Esalen believe that their style of massage is bested learned there so that a therapist learns the Esalen philosophy not just a style of massage.

The massage is very relaxing. It's primary goal is to relax you while balancing your energy and increasing the harmony between mind and body. A relaxed body is a healthy body. Therapists don't just believe they are treating the body, they are also treating the spirit.

The strokes used are long and flowing. The way the strokes are preformed is often called tai chi like. As new bodywork styles emerge they are incorporated into the Esalen style. Some aspects of Trager work, Rolfing and CranioSacral therapy are sometimes used in a session.

This type of massage is especially good for people who have neck and back pain. It relieves joint and muscle pain and helps with sleep disorders.