'Harbin'ger of Good Health:
Retreat To Your Next Workshop At Harbin!

	Located in the heart of the wine region north of Calistoga, Harbin Hot Springs offers over 1700 acres of wilderness, warm and cold spring pools, sauna, massage, a pampering spa, and a clothing optional sun deck. Experience solitude or attend a wide variety of workshops and activities.

By T. O'Rourke

With the summer season here, many of us have begun to feel the itch to get out of town, and explore the surrounding regions that are beautiful, sunny, and free of tourists hanging from trolleys and complaining about the fog. But if you're the type that likes to return from a weekend with more than just memories, you might want to consider a getaway that includes a workshop at one of the area retreat or educational centers.

As with incredible restaurants, Bay Area residents probably have more retreat and workshop centers within a short drive than do residents of any other American city. Some of these centers — like Esalen in Big Sur and Harbin Hot Springs in the wine country – have been conducting cutting-edge workshops since the dawn of the Age of Aquarius, and attract visitors from around the world. Others focus on single topics or modalities, such as yoga, meditation, bodywork, or diet. It is also common for spiritual groups or religious orders to operate retreats centers that serve church members and non-members alike.

It's easier than ever to find a workshop or a center that fits your interests. Many of the facilitators listed in OPEN EXCHANGE hold weekend or week-long events at area centers, and these events can be a great way to "sample" techniques and ideas before contracting one-on-one services. Professional training organizations like the School of Shiatsu & Massage at Harbin typically offer classes for non-professionals, too. Or look for Bay Area organizations that conduct intensives away from the city.

Although Harbin Hot Springs welcomes guests booking rooms or camping for their own personal retreats, manager Elke Murphy agrees that group workshop participants can have an especially unique and powerful experience during their stay. "We all have plans for personal improvement, whether it's to try a new dance technique, learn how to give our partner a massage, or to experience a change in our close relationships," says Elke. "There's something powerful about setting aside a weekend dedicated to one of these plans, and joining with others who share your desires. Often, the wheels start turning just in the process of planning the retreat."

When shopping around for a workshop, consider what's important to you, and be sure to find out what's included in the registration fees. Although fancy hotels and spas are beginning to offer packages that include self-improvement programs, traditional retreat centers usually focus on the learning experience rather than on high-thread-count sheets. Accommodations may include shared bunk houses, rustic cabins, or outdoor camping. Clothes may be casual, or even optional. You probably won't find wine lists or dessert carts at dinner, but many centers pride themselves on serving meals that are healthy and creatively prepared. As you plan your trip, you may want to consider including a day before the workshop to explore the surrounding area. You may also want to see if it's possible to stay a few extra days after the workshop has ended, giving you time to integrate the experience alone or with a partner.

Perhaps the best part of attending a workshop or organized retreat is what you bring home with you. Instead of a stack of forgotten photos or soon to be dusty souvenirs, you could return with a new talent, some great friends, and a fresh perspective on life. Now that's a getaway worth taking!