Workshops & Classes

The gardens at American Botanical Council

Introduction to Esalen® Massage

Saturday, August 2, 2025

American Botanical Council, Austin, TX

with Lance Weihmuller, LMT, LMTI

Schedule:

10am-1:30pm Morning class

1:30pm-2:30pm Lunch break

2:30-6pm Afternoon class

Cost: $45-$75 sliding-scale

Created at Esalen Institute and inspired by the human potential movement, nature, and many pioneering leaders in the fields of bodywork and somatics, Esalen Massage is, at its core, an awareness practice. It is known for its long flowing strokes, slow rhythmic movements, and whole body//whole person integrative focus. In this course, you will be introduced to the history of Esalen Institute and the basic techniques that form the foundation of Esalen massage.

This is an introductory-level class for anyone interested in exploring presence-based touch, beginners and licensed massage therapists alike. Beginners will have the opportunity to learn the essence of healing touch and a foundation for a profound way of relating to another human being as well as themselves. Those who already have massage training will be offered a new perspective on how to relate to the work and turn their massage practice into a moving meditation.

What to Expect

Our day will consist of group exercises, brief lectures, demonstrations, and supervised practice, with time for reflection and integration.

We will cover the foundational techniques of Esalen massage, which are designed to facilitate deep relaxation and greater self-awareness. The techniques demonstrated in this brief course may not seem particularly challenging. The opportunity for growth, however, is in the practice of becoming more present with what you are doing, which we will explore at the massage table, in group discussion, and in embodied movement practice. Please come prepared to exchange touch with others.

As this course is a part of the Esalen Massage Teacher Training program, documentation is required by the Esalen Massage & Bodywork Association (EMBA). Some portions of teaching will be videotaped for private review by mentors and program supervisors. No one will be videoed or photographed without informed consent. All participants, however, will be asked to fill out and return feedback forms that will be provided at the end of our day together.

This class is not yet approved continuing education—although workshops will be approved for NCBTMB credit beginning in 2026. This is not a certification course. In order to promote yourself as an Esalen® Massage Practitioner, you must complete a 100-hour or longer program.

What to bring

You will need to bring a pillow, a blanket (preferably twin sized), and a journal and pen or pencil. If you have a meditation cushion, please bring one for brief periods of sitting. You may bring your own unscented massage oil or lotion if you like; however, massage oil will be provided in class. Massage sheets will be provided too. Please wear clothes comfortable for movement, attend to your personal hygiene, and come fragrance-free. Massage tables will be sourced from community, so if you can bring one, please indicate so upon registration.

You are encouraged to bring your lunch. The gardens at ABC make for excellent picnicking. A few more details about mealtime below.

Where we will meet

Class will take place at American Botanical Council, 6200 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723, inside the annex on the east side of the main building. Parking is available on property past the entry gate. An electric kettle will be available for use, in addition to a refrigerator to store personal snacks or meals for lunch. ABC is located near HEB Mueller as well as other establishments for off-site lunch options, including Lance’s favorite taqueria La Fruta Feliz. (You have to try their smoothies.)

How to sign up

Click any of the sign-up buttons, or click here, and fill out the registration form. Class capacity will be limited to eight to ten students, so do not hesitate or wait to sign up. After you have registered and submitted payment, you will receive confirmation via text message within 24 hours.

Cancellation Policy: Refunds are available up to 7 days before class begins. Between 7 days and 24 hours before class, 50% will be refunded. No refund is given for cancellations made within 24 hours of the start of class.

Lance Weihmuller is a certified Esalen® massage practitioner and a provisional Esalen® Massage Teacher. They have been licensed as a massage therapist by the State of Texas since 2020 and, more recently, as a Massage Therapy Instructor. Lance is excited to foster a community of presence-based bodyworkers in Central Texas. When not dancing around a massage table, Lance can usually be found laying in the full sun at Barton Springs Pool, perusing the produce section at Central Market, or playing hockey like a true peaceful warrior.