Grof® Breathwork: Homecoming
Description
Originally developed as “holotropic breathwork” at Esalen in the 1980s by Stanislav and Christina Grof, this powerful practice invites participants into expanded states of consciousness through accelerated breathing, evocative music, and supported somatic release.
Working with the breath as a guide, we enter an inner journey that opens to the psyche’s innate intelligence, creating space for emotional release, physical relaxation, stress reduction, and deeply meaningful numinous experiences.
During the program, you will take part in two full Grof® Breathwork sessions: one as a breather, engaging in your own deep inner work, and one as a sitter, offering compassionate support to another person’s journey. Each session lasts about three hours and is preceded by a thorough preparation presentation on Friday evening.
Integration is woven into the experience through group sharing and reflection on what emerges. In the time between sessions, you are invited to support your process through Esalen’s movement offerings and by spending time in the area’s stunning natural environment.
This is a rare chance to experience Grof® Breathwork on the land where the practice began.
Recommended reading: When the Impossible Happens, by Stan Grof, Holotropic Breathwork, by Stan Grof, Watch: The Way of the Psychonaut
Lead photo: Jens Wazel
Marianne Murray
Marianne trained with Stanislav Grof in the 1990s and is a certified Grof® Breathwork facilitator and International Teacher. She holds an MA in transpersonal psychology and a PhD in transformative learning.
Live Extended Education Program
Join a cohort of 16 learners in a demanding course of study, with up to 26 hours per week over either two weeks or four weeks, depending on the program. In addition, you will be expected to complete 26 hours of service each week in one of Esalen’s operational departments as part of your studies.
Program Schedule
On the day after arrival at Esalen, the program opens with an orientation meeting where you will receive your class schedule and service assignment.
Accommodations
LEEP housing is dorm-style and gender-inclusive, with four students sharing one room.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition is $1600 for two-week programs and $2900 for four-week programs, and includes accommodations, meals, and the workshop. A non-refundable $20 application fee is collected when you apply and will be applied to your deposit if you are accepted. Once accepted, a non-refundable deposit of $800 secures your place in the two-week program, and $1450 secures your place in the four-week program.
Accommodation Options
Bunk Bed
Designed for shared stays, this room type accommodates four to six guests in a welcoming, gender-inclusive setting, with a maximum stay of seven consecutive days. It’s a practical choice for retreat participants who value comfort, simplicity, and a sense of community during their time away.
Each bunk room includes twin-size bunk beds and a private bathroom with a shower, offering the privacy and convenience guests need throughout their stay. Fresh towels, bath soap, and bed linens are provided, so you can settle in with ease and focus on your experience rather than the details.
With its straightforward layout and thoughtfully provided essentials, this accommodation supports a restful and uncomplicated stay, making it well suited for those looking to share space while still enjoying comfort and functionality.
Standard Shared
Ideal for guests who want a more social stay without the atmosphere of a dorm, this cozy shared room offers a comfortable and practical setup for up to three people of the same gender. The space is arranged with three beds: two on the main floor and one tucked into a sleeping loft, creating a simple, welcoming environment that still feels private and restful.
Each room includes an in-room bathroom with a shower, making daily routines easy and convenient. To help you settle in with ease, towels, bath soap, and bed linens are all provided. Whether you are traveling for a retreat, a wellness stay, or a peaceful getaway with others, this room offers a warm balance of connection, comfort, and simplicity.
Standard Queen
Designed for guests seeking a little extra privacy, this inviting room offers a peaceful place to unwind within the charming, Big Sur-inspired motel atmosphere of the property. Thoughtfully located for convenience, it overlooks the main campus and garden, giving you a calming view to return to throughout your stay.
Inside, you’ll find a private bathroom and a comfortable setting that supports rest, simplicity, and easy access to the wider retreat experience. It’s an ideal choice for solo travelers or couples looking for a quiet, well-situated space to recharge between wellness activities, meals, and moments of relaxation.
If you’d like to share the room, one additional guest may join for an extra $250 per night.
Standard Two Beds
Settle into a relaxed stay surrounded by the charming motel-inspired atmosphere of Big Sur. This Standard Two Double Beds room offers a comfortable, unfussy space designed for easy rest and shared travel. With two double beds and a private bathroom, it is a practical choice for friends, couples, or family members looking to enjoy time together while still having room to unwind.
The room’s simple, welcoming feel makes it easy to slow down after a day of exploring, reconnecting, or simply enjoying a peaceful break. Whether you are traveling for a quiet getaway or a shared adventure, this space provides the comfort and privacy you need for a restful stay.
Premium Queen
Designed for a serene Central Coast escape, this room invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and settle into a truly restful stay. A luxurious queen bed creates a comforting place to unwind after a day of exploring, offering the kind of refuge that feels both elevated and easy. The atmosphere is warm and relaxing, with thoughtful details that help guests feel instantly at ease.
Depending on the room, you may enjoy one or more of the following features:
- Ocean or forest view
- Upgraded bathrooms and decor
- Private outdoor area
Whether you are here for a peaceful getaway or simply looking for a more refined place to rest, this room offers a welcoming balance of comfort, charm, and natural beauty.
Premium Plus King
Settle into a Premium Plus King room and take in the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur from a space designed for rest and renewal. After a day of exploring the coastline, unwind on a private deck in an upstairs unit or a patio on the ground level, both offering a front-row seat to the ocean views. Inside, picture windows welcome in natural light and create a calm, airy atmosphere from morning to evening.
These accommodations are ideal for guests seeking the comfort of a king-size bed along with thoughtful upgrades throughout. Expect elevated bathrooms and decor, plus premium in-room WiFi for added convenience during your stay. With its blend of comfort, style, and unforgettable scenery, this room offers a serene retreat for travelers looking to experience Big Sur at its most inspiring.
Teachers
With a background shaped by decades of study and practice, Marianne brings depth, presence, and expertise to her work. She trained with Stanislav Grof in the 1990s and is a certified Grof® Breathwork facilitator as well as an International Teacher. Her academic foundation includes an MA in transpersonal psychology and a PhD in transformative learning, reflecting a lifelong commitment to...
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Fri, Dec 4 – Sun, Dec 6