In the Spotlight

California Quests more

Founded in the early 1960s as an alternative educational/holistic center devoted to the exploration of what Aldous Huxley called the human potential, the Esalen Institute is situated on 27 acres along the spectacular Big Sur coastline of California. Esalen's 28-day residential work-study program offers the essential ingredients for making a directed commitment to self-exploration and growth while contributing your service and working talents to the Esalen community. Participants work 32 hours per week in one of Esalen's departments (usually in the kitchen or housekeeping); during most evenings and one weekend intensive, students are together with assigned leaders in one of two groups exploring different practices and approaches available at the center (such as Gestalt, meditation, creative arts, massage or somatics work). The fee of $1,095 also covers shared housing, healthful food (often with home-grown organic produce), and participation in regularly scheduled movement classes, use of the Art Barn and enjoyment of round-the-clock access to the Esalen baths. Discounts are available for extended work periods. Applications and specific details about each session can be found online or email Esalen for more info.

• The two northernmost tubs at the Esalen baths bring work-study participants closest to the energy of the ocean. From here the sound and sight of waves breaking against the rocks are ever-present. This wide-open outdoor location is a wonderful vantage point from which to take in the coastline, sunsets and the starry night sky.

Experience hands-on spirituality in an intentional community guided by the teachings of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The Nyingma Volunteer Work Exchange program offers accommodations, vegetarian meals, Buddhist classes, a stipend of $150 per month, and opportunities to train in a wide range of practical vocational and business skills. Applications are being accepted at both the urban program in Berkeley, CA and at Ratna Ling, a rural retreat center in Sonoma County (100 miles north of San Francisco). Positions in book production, bookkeeping, cooking, sewing, maintenance, landscaping, IT, fundraising, graphic design, and all aspects of the publishing business are currently available. Participate in one of Nyingma's worthwhile projects and see how meaningful work can add a new dimension to your life. Free evening classes, including meditation, Tibetan yoga, and Buddhist philosophy, give participants in this program a chance to deepen their knowledge and facilitate self-development. If you like to work hard, are willing to view work as a source of learning, and possess a strong commitment to personal growth, then you will thrive in this environment. Call 510.981.1987 or email dharmavols@nyingma.org for more info.

• Looking for an opportunity to unite practical accomplishment with spiritual development? Immerse yourself in a lifestyle that combines aspects of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition with a strong work ethic of accomplishment for the benefit of all humanity. More Details »

New York Quests more

A season at the Omega Institute offers a unique opportunity for hard work, personal growth, spiritual exploration, community building and transforming lives. Each year 400 staff members with diverse backgrounds join Omega to work and grow alongside like-minded people. The work itself is basic and rudimentary (from the FoodWorks program to administration, guest services, housekeeping, maintenance and garden staff); however, the real draw is participation in a stimulating collection of classes, gatherings, and special events with topics that include Holistic Studies Programs (bodywork, yoga, tai chi, chakra meditations), Life Skills Workshops (reiki training, astrology, communing with music, zen and creativity) and Strategies in Conscious Living (vision quests, coaching, celtic shamanism, psychic development). Benefits also include a small stipend, housing in the dorms or tents, wholesome meals and access to campus facilities, concerts and dances. Positions are available from April through October for the entire season or for a minimum of seven weeks. If you are creative, enthusiastic, responsible, willing to learn and are seeking ways to make our world more healthy and humane, consider joining the Omega team! eOmega.org

• Whether you are a student, career-shifter or retiree, seasonal staff members at Omega are encouraged to engage in the inner work of self-examination and personal growth within the context of community living.

Unique Resources

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Attend workshops that will open your heart, awaken your spirit and fill your soul with joy—a spectacular and powerful weekend event featuring the country's top authors and speakers. The Summer 2010 Celebrate Your Life conference will be held from June 4-7 in Chicago.

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