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Esalen Institute

Stages of Tranquility and Insight

Feb 27, 2026 – Mar 1, 2026 · 3 days · Big Sur, CA

Weekend
InsightSilence TBDBeginner-friendlyCost on site

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Retreat overview

Asanga’s Nine Stages of Staying is one of the oldest and most comprehensive systems of concentration in the Buddhist tradition.

Sometimes called the Elephant Path, this approach was originated by the great Buddhist master in 506 A.D., and it is now the main method of training the mind in the Tibetan tradition.

In this weekend meditation retreat, participants will learn the stages of the Elephant Path using the body as the primary object of concentration.

Students will also receive an introduction to the basic stages of ordinary insight.

By the end of our time together, students will have all the instructions necessary to successfully incorporate a robust meditation practice into everyday life.

Training the mind in this way can lead to a direct experience of equanimity and can put the student in a range of practice wherein pointing out the real nature of the awakened mind is possible.

No experience with meditation is required.

If you have your own preferred meditation pillow and mat, please bring them.

Teachers: Dustin DiPerna

Daily schedule shape

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Logistics

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About Esalen Institute

Big Sur retreat campus known for experiential workshops, contemplative practice, and ocean-view renewal.

Founded 1962Iconic retreat center
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