Many of the techniques associated with Esalen are also used in Swedish massage. Long gliding strokes combined with the practicioner's intution and focus lead to connection between the client and the masseuse that are effective in uncovering root problems with the bodies systems. The techniques have been adapted to focus on specific muscle systems as well as the circulatory system and aim to discover and eliminate any adhesions or occlusions that the client may have without the client having to tell the Esalen practicioner.

Esalen is rooted in a mind body connection between the client and the therapist and may take different paths of treatment based on what the therapist discovers during their initial contact. Using the mind as well as the hands and arms allows the therapist to find out more about the client and their needs/complaints than if they just went about the treatment with no focus or connection with the client.

Parts of the Esalen treatments may entale the therapist putting the clients joints through their whole range of motion. This helps in the discovery process as well as lightly stretches the body. We all have a natural desire to be touched and Esalen combines the physical hands on appoach of massage therapy with the intuitive focus of meditation. Finding a good Esalen therapist is like finding a caring friend.