A Historic Trip: Altered States at Esalen (An Illustrated Lecture)

A Historic Trip: Altered States at Esalen – an Illustrated Lecture

“A Historic Trip: Altered States at Esalen” traces how altered states of consciousness have shaped the legacy and ethos of Esalen Institute. During the early 1960s, Esalen emerged as a haven for self-exploration and the pursuit of human potential, surfacing against the backdrop of proto-hippie counterculture, the anti-war movement, and the growing embrace of Eastern thought. Through the societal shifts of the 1970s and Reagan-era 1980s, Esalen remained dedicated to exploring the outer reaches of both consciousness and culture: from psychedelics to parapsychology, from geopolitical conflict resolution to Gestalt Therapy for dentists, few topics were left unexamined and unexplored. Marathon encounter groups, primal scream, Creative Divorce and 5 Rhythms dance all found their place, alongside deeper inquiries into psychology, spirituality, and self-development.

Through archival photos and videos, we’ll examine how Esalen navigated a changing social landscape and built an unconventional, non-academic system of inquiry that pushed the boundaries of human experience.

Ticket price: $10 (in-person event + Zoom options available)

Please email [email protected] or phone 323-663-2167 with any questions.

ACCESSIBILITY

PRS wants all guests to be able to enjoy our events safely and comfortably. If you require any accessibility accommodation, please reach out to [email protected] before showtime and we will be happy to assist you.

Please note this particular event is being held in a space that is not wheelchair accessible.

REFUND POLICIES

All sales are final. There are no refunds for PRS events, except in the event of a medical emergency, including but not limited to a positive COVID-19 test.

In the event that PRS is forced to cancel an event entirely, tickets will be refunded or vouchers offered for a rescheduled event

PARKING

Limited parking is available onsite at PRS in both the front lot (entry from Los Feliz Blvd. when heading east) and back lot (entry from first alley way, off Griffith Park Blvd. from intersection with Los Feliz Blvd.), as well as street parking on Griffith Park Blvd. and on Los Feliz Blvd (after 7pm). We encourage attendees to consider carpooling, walking or biking to events if possible, and to please be considerate of our Los Feliz neighbors when parking.

PRS EVENT POLICIES

• We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.
• Events are subject to change without notice, including guest speakers and/or performers.
• We encourage you to arrive at least 30 min. before the scheduled event start time to find parking, enjoy the Bookstore and take your seats.
• Please turn off all mobile devices before the show. Talking and texting are not allowed during the events.
• No filming, audio recording or mobile phone recording of events, screenings, concerts or other programs by audience members is allowed without permission.
• There is no smoking permitted on PRS grounds.
• We strongly encourage guests to wear masks to PRS events to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
• PRS allows Service Animals into the facility under ADA and state guidelines. For further details please visit www.ADA.gov. No animals permitted whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support, under ADA guidelines and CA Health Code.
• Please do not bring outside food or drink into PRS events.
• Weapons are strictly prohibited at PRS events.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Philosophical Research Society, 3910 Los Feliz Boulevard, Los Angeles, United States