Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA
Are you in what Charles Eisenstein calls the “space between stories”—when one story has ended and another has not yet begun? Are you hoping to gestate a greater sense of purpose, mystery, magic, openness, and fulfillment while you’re in this liminal space? Do you feel a sense of being called to participate in the transformation of consciousness that is underway on our planet right now, only you’re not sure what you’re being called to do?
If so, please join me at Esalen Institute in Big Sur September 17–22, 2017 to explore, deep dive, and discover what emerges at the 5-day Anatomy of a Calling workshop I’m leading. Esalen has been closed for months after a massive landslide took out Highway 1 in January, so returning to the place of my deepest soul belonging will be a much-appreciated homecoming for those of us who bless Esalen with our presence after Esalen herself has been in the space between stories. I have a feeling it will be a rich, magical, and potent time for those of us who dare to gather in the eye of this much uncertainty. Esalen has been storing up her magic . . . just waiting to pour it upon us. I can feel it!
“This workshop was pure magic. As Lissa and her team taught the group how to tune into their own inner guidance and tap into the magic all around us for support. We literally watched the physical world line up to join in on the fun in support of each of our journeys! Songs played spontaneously, windows banged at the mention of a certain presidential candidate, and it even culminated in an impromptu wedding! What can always be guaranteed with Lissa is a safe space, lots of heart, and an internal shift in oneself towards the deeper knowings we all have and hold and just need permission to let guide us in each and every moment.” —Emma Harper
“The Anatomy of a Calling Workshop at Esalen literally changed my life. The timing was right and I had done the prerequisite reading, etc. to try to get the most out of the workshop. However, I was not anticipating the powerful, soulful journey that was to mark the beginning of a new life for me. The expert leadership and complete dedication to creating a dynamic and safe place for everyone attending created many personal revelations and heart openings for the whole group. The Anatomy of a Calling is for those who find themselves in the place between stories, that place where some portion of life is ending and a new beginning and direction has yet to reveal itself. Through deep soul searching, the love shared by the group and gentle skillful guidance by Lissa and her team, I experienced what it is like to hear and trust your intuition, face the fear of uncertainty with grace and excitement, and know the unconditional love that connects us all. By the end of the week, I was able to begin to recognize and anticipate the beautiful way the universe leaves clues in my daily life leading me to the manifestation of my higher calling and higher good. I strongly recommend the Anatomy of a Calling Workshop.” —Mike Hopwood
The Greek word “metanoia,” which means a transformative shift of the heart, is one way we would describe our experience at Lissa Rankin’s Anatomy of a Calling retreat. We both attended Lissa’s workshop at Esalen last year seeking guidance on how to proceed with our professional careers. Little did we know that the retreat would inspire some of the most transformative personal as well as professional growth we’ve ever experienced. To describe this retreat as a meaningful experience would be a gross understatement—it was undoubtedly one of the defining moments of our lives and one we will never forget. Lissa and her team provided incredible support and resources for all the attendees and created a safe environment, which allowed for tremendous heart-opening, revelation, and transformation. Lissa is an exceptional facilitator and guides from a deep knowing that is respectful and inclusive. We have attended several retreats in various venues, and the Anatomy of a Calling retreat has been by far the most impactful and profound. We are so grateful we were able to attend this in-person opportunity with Lissa and wholeheartedly recommend her Anatomy of a Calling workshop.” —Kristen Burge & Del Laverdure
Workshop Description
We are all embarked on what Joseph Campbell calls the “Hero’s Journey” of finding and fulfilling our calling. But so many of us feel lost, disillusioned, helpless, or stuck when it comes to our life purpose. If you’re like many of us, you may have felt called the way a priest is called to the priesthood, only to find yourself stuck in a system that asks you to sacrifice your soul’s integrity. Or you may still feel disconnected from your passion and purpose, not even knowing where to start. Or maybe you just quit your job and you’re realizing that you can quit your job, but you can’t quit your calling. No matter where you are on your hero’s journey, this workshop is intended to offer you comfort, inspiration, community, soul growth, and tools to facilitate the journey towards your soul’s purpose. We will utilize writing, ritual, singing, dancing, meditation, art, group discussions, spot coaching, discovery exercises, and nature to help you unlock the ways in which your love and your gifts can bless the world. Topics of exploration will include the hero’s journey, dealing with fear, learning to receive and discern spiritual guidance, loosening the stronghold of childhood patterns that block you from stepping fully into your gifts and igniting your imagination.
