Osmosis

A Great Thing Happened

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 22:57:20 GMT

Rumi’s Caravan has travelled through the land of Oz (Osmosis), leaving it’s indelible mark on the hearts of those attending, the Japanese garden that held us and the clear skies that reigned above our heads. Over one hundred people at this sold out event sat transfixed for an hour and a half of ecstatic poetry.

Words enlivened the air with palpable feeling as the four performers, Larry Robinson, Gwynn O’Gara, Kay Crista and Doug Von Koss, spoke the words of Rumi, Hafiz, Oliver, Sophocles and their own with passion and grace. Melodic riffs winged their way above and around us through the inspired accompaniment of Kim Atkinson, Cynthia Albers and Chris Caswell.

All this magic conjured support for an organization serving those in need. We raised $5,000 dollars for the Ceres Community Project - enough to provide food for 10 families for 3 months! Ceres also provided the guests with a delectable Middle Eastern feast including Persian rice pilaf with green beans, lime   chickpea shortbreads and  orange scented stuffed dates just to name a few of the tantalizing selections. The evening capped off with foot-warming and heart-warming connection in the enzyme baths.

Perfection.

Thank you so much to everyone who participated - from the Ceres chefs and volunteers to the talented, eclectic performers of Rumi's Caravan to the generous donations of wine to the ticket holders for the gift of their presence and to the staff of Osmosis!

Gratitude to all for such a magical evening!

The poem flew at me…
Little darts of words
big wings of words
charging the air all around me
There were no words, only language…

Leaving me empty of words.

Continuing Adventures with the Enzyme Baths in Japan

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 19:12:20 GMT

The second place I visited with my friend Kazuko Takahashi was in the middle of Tokyo. From what we have learned it is typical of the majority of the many small family enzyme bath establishments found in all parts of Japan. It was in an upstairs apartment converted into a business. We received a very warm reception from Masako Yamauchi, her son and daughter when we arrived at Hinoki Koso. The cost for the bath was Y3,200, nearly $40 at the current exchange rate. We were served the thick syrupy “Enzyme Drink” usually from Otahka Koso at the beginning of the session. This brew, made from fruits and vegetables, is fermented and aged with a very sweet robust distinct flavor.

There was a very small area in which to change. There were two small single tubs with wooden lids on them. The bath material was very dark, pungent and hot. Obviously it had not been changed for a long time. After being covered with the enzyme material, a light Mylar aluminum space blanket was put over me to amplify the heat. A wet facial pack was put over my cheeks, eyes and forehead leaving the mouth and nose exposed. The enzyme bath mix was then put over the mask warming the face and activating the enzyme compound in the pack. We both sweated profusely and felt deeply cleansed, refreshed and relaxed afterwards.

We really enjoyed being at this place and appreciated the warmth and enthusiasm of the wonderful family who run the place.

Enzyme Bath Revisited - My Quest to Japan

Mon, 28 May 2012 22:49:18 GMT

Last fall my friend Duke from Ten Thousand waves, the Japanese style hot tub spa in Santa Fe New Mexico, forwarded me an article about the enzyme bath published in the Japan Times suggesting there was growing interest in this esoteric therapy.

This article became the impetus to visit Japan for the first time in many years.

My goal was to see what new I could learn about the bath since researching it extensively nearly 30 years ago prior to creating Osmosis. Re-experiencing Japan was considerably more than I expected. I will be posting points of interest on this blog in installments as I unpack the journey.

On the first day in Japan I went to HAGI NO SATO in Chiba, a beautiful countryside area south of Tokyo. A mother and son team runs the place. The feel was like a cross between someone’s home and a B&B. People come for days sometimes weeks at a time to fast and take the bath twice daily. A copious number of testimonials were presented that accounted for many a healing transformation for all kinds of conditions. Yukari Dithmar, who interpreted for me, has been coming here for years herself on personal retreats to restore her health and spirit. The bath itself was a large communal tub that was about 16’ by 25’. It had direct earth contact on the bottom with a layer of Charcoal

The mixture was nearly 4 feet. The bath was plenty hot, just bearable. New age music from the 80’s played.

Afterwards we met with the founder, Mr. Kitajima who has been working with the enzyme bath to support people’s health for decades. He is a major proponent of the Macrobiotic diet and works with the detoxification qualties of the bath along with dietary regimen to obtain therapeutic results.

He believes the bath effects the body in a manor similar to a major workout and in some ways it’s more effective. The bath purifies old blood and improves kidney flow. Detoxification is so effective because the quality of sweat produced has six times as much waste as urine. At the same time enzyme bath has a major restorative effect similar to what achieved only by deep sleep.

I was reminded how much I would like to organize extended retreats for people to experience the full benefits of the bath by taking many in a short period of time. My initial experience was a seven-day full immersion retreat.

My next post will be about visiting a very different version of the enzyme bath in Tokyo.

- Michael Stusser

Electric Cars at Osmosis for Earth Day

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:58:24 GMT

On Friday Osmosis co-hosted a convening of leaders in our community who have an interest in actualizing electric vehicle transportation. We are provided a convivial setting for key players to become acquainted with each other. Our gathering was held in the tub room with everyone’s feet in the enzyme bath! The primary agenda was to accelerate the installation of charging stations for electric cars in our region. We envision this gathering as a first step in a broader effort that will lead to establishing a variety of alternative forms of transportation for our area.

Attendees included: Efren Carrillo, 5th District Supervisor, Jared Huffman, Assembly Member, Richard Heinberg, Post Carbon Institute, Brant Arthur & Jim McGreen, Climate Protection Campaign, Caryl Hart, Sonoma County Regional Parks, Dave Head, Fleet Manager for the County of Sonoma, Jack Swearingen, Friends of SMART, Jeff Hall, Siemens, Mark Perlmutter, SWITCH Vehicles, Alan Soule, North Bay Electric Auto Association, Craig Anderson, LandPaths, and Rick Coats & Toni Tacoma, Ecoring.

A number of electric cars were on hand for test drives. we had a good look at the old rail road right of way which goes through Freestone, which is being proposed as an alternative transportation corridor for hiking, biking and equestrian use.

A broad and very helpful conversation ensued. It was exciting to learn that Sonoma County is ahead of the nation with its Electric Vehicle program and a number of charging stations will be installed in all the major towns THIS YEAR!

To encourage carbon reduction Osmosis is offering 25% off services (April 23-27) and retail (all month) to anyone who arrives in an alternative fuel, hybrid or electric vehicle. The discount also applies to scooters and other two wheeled modes- with a bonus FREE boxed lunch for cyclists!

VIDEO - Remebering an Occidental Legend, "Ranger" Rick Kaufman

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 21:18:44 GMT

The town greeter for the nearby town of Occidental passed away in February. Rick Kaufman, known as “Ranger Rick” was a fixture in our berg for decades. He took care of the landscaping and psychic space of our very special community. He was the unofficial mayor and for some, the town felt like his living room. On March 3rd he was feted with a memorial and celebration attended by hundreds. This video hopefully captures some of the sprit of Rick and this very special day that was held for him and all of us.

My Week of Renewal at Rancho La Puerta

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:08:44 GMT

I recently had the good fortune to spend a week at the almost mystical Rancho La Puerta. This place truly is the seed of the vision for the entire spa industry. A family operation since its inception in 1940, Conde Naste has named this 3,000-acre destination spa in Tecate, Mexico Best Destination Spa in the world for the second year in a row. Originally based on the health principles of the Communal Essenes (second century BCE to first century CE), their programming offers a tremendous opportunity for deep rejuvenation. After so many years, Rancho La Puerta is still worthy of its legendary reputation.

For me, the week was about giving back to myself through transformation by gaining physical strength, balance and soul replenishment.

Each of my days started with an amazing hike between boulders of every size, shape and description.

The program offers countless opportunities to work the body and mind in expansive ways. Classes range from yoga and Pilates to water aerobics and meditation led by a professional and very helpful fitness staff. One of the reasons I went to the ranch was to dance. The NIA class (a sensory-based movement practice) was a total celebration with a fabulous leader. On the last day we all pranced around to the Nutcracker Suite. Total Mirth was fully unleashed!

A writing workshop helped me to connect with soul language. We swam deeply in the rivers of challenge, surprise, inspiration and love.

Just resting in the sun on a chaise lounge listening to the birds and the wind in the warm Mexican sun was total enchantment.

Every meal was a gourmet vegetarian feast with most of the food coming straight from their seven-acre organic garden.

For me it was a superb tune-up. As the magic of the week unfolded, I experienced a special quality of alchemy that’s hard to explain. The energy of the place is truly nurturing. I met remarkable people and have some interesting new acquaintances in my life.

I was totally re-energized by this special week. The really good news is that we are exploring the possibility of creating a special week for Osmosis guests at the Ranch in 2012. This would be a time for Osmosis people to gather and grow our way towards optimal health -- and leading the best life possible. As we look into this option we would love to find out, a) does this interest you?, and b) when would be the best time to go?

This is but one of many very exciting plans we have in the works for Osmosis in 2012. You will be hearing more very soon. Meanwhile I wish your intentions for the New Year contribute to filling your days with great health and vital living.

-Michael

The Green Connoisseur Gives Osmosis a Great Write-Up

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:35:51 GMT

Here is an example of the wonderful review we received;

"The spa's greening and conservation stretches back to when founder Michael Stusser was working to open the spa. Making the new spa a sustainable and eco-conscious business led to the formation of the Green Spa Network, of which Osmosis Day Spa is a founding member. This network is a non-profit organization dedicated to the greening of the spa industry."

Osmosis Word Cloud

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 23:58:07 GMT

We recently asked some of our guests to describe Osmosis in one word, and their responses were great. Armed with that information we've created a word cloud. This is the visual representation of a group of words where the words repeated the most are the largest and those chosen less are smaller... it's an interesting representation of a group of words or thoughts.

This is a fun project you can do with any group of words, and there are free generators online. We used Wordle to do this one, you can check it out, and try it yourself.

Word Clouds can be a fun way to display group feedback, or to map a brainstorming session. If you look closely at our cloud, maybe you will agree with the prominent words, or maybe you will see that something is missing. Let us know in the comments section below. The task was to give one-word, and adjective, to describe Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary. You can get a look at a bigger version here.

11/11/11 Movie Premiere at Osmosis Day Spa an Auspicious Event

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 22:13:35 GMT

November 11th is a very Meaningful Date for us at Osmosis.
11/11/1984, we broke ground for the Osmosis prototype; 11/11/1989 was our first day of business in Freestone and11/11/1993 we appeared on Good Morning America.

Friday, October 11th this year will also be a special day at Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary, which will be marked by a fabulous movie-premiere and party.

We are hosting a screening of a ground breaking new film, “Thrive” at the Occidental Center for the Arts, which is being released simultaneously at numerous locations throughout the world on 11/11/11. Show time is 6:00 PM with a $11 donation, 100% of proceeds will benefit West County Health Services.

This film is an unconventional documentary that lifts the veil on what's REALLY going on in our world by following the money upstream -- uncovering the global consolidation of power in nearly every aspect of our lives. Weaving together breakthroughs in science, consciousness and activism, THRIVE offers real solutions, empowering us with unprecedented and bold strategies for reclaiming our lives and our future. Click here to learn more about the film and to watch the preview.

This tradition of the movie premiere began last year when Osmosis screened our local friend Delia Moon’s documentary A Communal Memoir. The event was a big hit, and guests really enjoyed her production chronicling outcomes of the communal living experience from the 1960’s and how that lifestyle has created a new consciousness based on interconnection.

We also invite you to attend the very special red-carpet champagne reception at Osmosis following the film at 8 PM for $11. This fun post film celebration gives moviegoers a chance to mingle and reflect on the film. Conversation is especially cozy in our complimentary cedar enzyme footbaths with tea and snacks from our spa-chef.

We hope you can be a part of this community-building event to witness the future and join an international movement at an auspicious moment.

Call 707-823-8231 to reserve your space.

Osmosis Changes Name of Vision Quest to Day Long Spa Retreat out of Respect for Native Americans

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:17:14 GMT

Words can mean many things to many people.

Clearly the name “vision quest” is a legacy from the Native American tradition that has a very specific meaning to Native American culture. Out of respect for that tradition and the legacy from which it comes we will no longer be naming and marketing our daylong spa retreats as a “one-day vision quest”.

Francis Rico (aka Francis “Frank” Hayhurst) is the teacher facilitator who is leading participants in our spa retreat. He has studied in Peru over many years with Jorge Delgado, and in Mexico with don Miguel Ruiz. Francis has worked extensively with Picurus/Ute Native American mystic and visionary Shaman Joseph Rael – Beautiful Painted Arrow – who says of Francis’s new book “Francis Rico in A Shaman’s Guide to Deep Beauty connects the reader to the radiant essence of revelation – he frees us to live inside Divine Presence.” This book was published by the Tris Foundation, whose mission is to discover and publish indigenous wisdom and emerging voices in order to enliven and renew the contemporary culture.
http://www.trisfoundation.org/books.htm

All three of his teachers have given him their blessing to represent their teachings – Jorge Delgado recognizes Francis as a Chacaruna, don Miguel made him a Toltec Teacher and Guide, and Joseph Rael authorized him to use the title of Shaman, and instructed him to carry wisdom practices and teachings forward. (See bio info below)

Regarding facilitating retreats at Osmosis, Francis says “Osmosis is so much more than just a spa, it truly is a healing sanctuary – and using the beauty of the grounds and facilities to deepen peoples connection with their purpose is a natural evolution and proper use of what has been created there – I do not use traditional sacred ways, but rather, take full advantage of the resources and beauty of Osmosis. I am happy to meet and discuss this with anyone who is concerned – please contact me at francis@shamanzone.com."

I think we can all agree that we have reached a critical point in our history as a species on the planet. There is a huge lack of vision in our contemporary western culture. The intention of our day-long retreats at Osmosis is to help support people to tap into a deeper vision for their lives. We wish do so in a manner that is mindful and respectful of Native American traditions.

Biographical information:

Born of a Spanish mother and a Basque/Tongva (southern Chumash) father, Francis has great respect for the wisdom traditions of indigenous people, and sensitivity to the issues that face them. His grandfather (his mother’s father) was a Maketo Shaman, and his grandmother (his father’s mother) was a Currandera, a native healer. Francis has led many West County community ceremonies for Peace, including the dedication of the Peace Park in Sebastopol with Native American Storyteller and musicians Albert Tenaya. Francis has led ceremonies celebrating the Solstices and Equinoxes on the North Coast for over 20 years. He continues to work with Beautiful Painted Arrow -Native American Elder Joseph Rael - on programs to educate and advance the planting and cultivation of indigenous plants, and their use in fighting the diabetes epidemic that threatens the health of so many native people. Francis is producing a 20 minute video on this topic featuring Joseph working with southern Ute school children, teaching them planting, dancing and ceremony.

A Field of Hammocks

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 23:52:57 GMT

“Build it and they will rest…”

Guests attending our fabulous Bastille Day event on July 14 were the first to see the new addition to Osmosis: our field of hammocks.

The story actually begins seven months ago, back in January, when we met with our most loyal guests to share our gratitude for their support. We enjoyed a long and productive discussion about the Oz experience, and asked what else they would like to enjoy here. Their answer? A place to rest. In fact, this question generated quite a few ideas, and in the end what emerged was a vision for a ‘field of hammocks.’

We at Osmosis took this idea to heart and have been working diligently for months to make it a reality. The idea of hammocks aligns perfectly with our intention to become more of a vitality center supporting a lifestyle of optimal health. As it turns out, quality of rest is one of the most essential components to feeling good and up to your game. Insomnia affects more than a third of adults at some point in their lives. The 24/7 digital blitz we are subjected to in our current cultural milieu is taking its toll on our nervous systems and our ability to fully engage in the sacred and simple act of rest. Without a doubt, lounging outside in the beauty and quiet of the Freestone Valley along Salmon Creek is the perfect antidote.

First, we began the search on our property for an ideal place to put hammocks.

Many of you may remember that this property was a junkyard before Osmosis, and we had to remove over 400 cubic yards of debris to clear the way to build the spa! At that time we found a few good timbers and other items that we deemed too good to dispose of. So we stacked everything up along the bank of the creek, built a fence around it and forgot it. Berry vines and willows grew over the area, and gradually it disappeared. Until last March, when our gung ho facilities department began working away to clear the area and transform it into a magical creekside setting for rest and relaxation. Our very own employees designed and built this unique oasis, using local and re-purposed materials whenever possible.

Now complete, this sublime little haven contains six hammocks as well as three Giant umbrellas to lend calming shade. To further enhance the relaxation experience we are providing healing sound therapy. Each guest will be given an MP3 player and headphones so they can listen to the meta-music programs we’ve been using in our blanket wraps at the spa for over 20 years. These sessions balance the left and right hemispheres of the brain and lower brain wave activity to the delta and theta ranges. This produces the kind of restorative rest that one experiences in deep stage sleep.

The Field of hammocks at Osmosis will be available to spa guests in conjunction with whatever other services they choose. We’re excited to announce this delightful ‘value add’ for our guests, maximize the therapeutic services we provide at Osmosis, and to enjoy all the possibilities our property offers. Crawl into one of our hammocks, do a little swayin’ in the breeze, and heal.

Earth Day

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 16:27:19 GMT

Do you remember the very first Earth Day 41 years ago? What I most remember is my teacher, gardener Alan Chadwick saying, “if we could just take care of the top seven inches of the earth’s surface (i.e. the top soil), the rest would take care of itself.” Inspired by Chadwick, I spent a decade in the 70’s living, working and teaching in horticultural collectives. We made nearly everything from recycled materials, built solar houses, gave garden workshops and produced a significant amount of our own food.

It’s hard to believe how much awareness and change in our lives has been generated since those early efforts. Today Earth Day is celebrated in 175 countries, and designated International Mother Earth Day by the United Nations!*

At Osmosis practicing sustainability is second nature: we have been doing it for 25 years, beginning with building the original enzyme bath facility with wood from an abandoned chicken coop. “Greening,” as it is now called, is a continuing journey that provides ongoing learning opportunities for all of us. Recently over 900 Osmosis guests responded to a green survey: something we hugely appreciate.

Almost ninety percent of you feel that the use of non-toxic cleaning products is important or very important. This has been our practice for years. We’re glad to see most of you realize that we use eco-friendly products in our treatments, sell them in our retail store, and that we have low flow toilets and showers.

In my opinion, safe ingredients in a skin care line are the most critical consideration for any spa business that is representing itself as “green”. While a majority consider our environmental integrity an important reason for coming to Oz, at least half of you are not fully aware of our ongoing efforts to conduct an earth friendly operation. Eighty percent of our respondents either hadn’t heard of, or only knew a little about our wetlands and gray water recycling system. This installation is particularly important because spas in general are using excessive amounts of water. It’s a wasteful practice that cannot continue.

Our wastewater recycle systems enables us to recycle the majority of the water we use in the spa to irrigate our extensive gardens. The entire building is plumbed to separate gray water from black water. All of our gray water is pumped to a constructed a wetland area on the hill in back of Osmosis that functions as a biological filter, cleaning it for reuse as landscape irrigation. We were actually the first commercial facility in Sonoma County to do this, and it’s been working very well. Incidentally, due to our extensive water conservation measures, we are only using 1,000 gallons of water a day in the spa, a pretty remarkable number when you consider a household of four averages at least 250 gallons a day.

Our on-demand hot water heater works in conjunction with a solar system that reduces propane use by more than 70%. We used wonderful lightweight collectors built and installed by the same company who installed the solar collectors on the White House in 1978. The installation was 100% financed by the Sonoma County Energy Independent program.

Besides fine-tuning our own environmental practices, we believe playing a strong role in our community is a vital component for any authentically engaged sustainable business. To this end we partner with the Sonoma County Go Local Co-Op, the nation-wide Teens Turning Green organization. For the past three years we have hosted the Freestone Fermentation Festival, a catalytic community event dedicated to returning culture to agriculture. It’s a celebration of the miracle of fermentation; it’s magical alchemical properties that change milk to cheese, organic waste to hummus and are the catalyst for transformation in the enzyme bath. Fermentation is the fundamental impulse in biology and can truly be called nature’s purification process. It’s also the natural phenomenon that unifies the bakery, winery and Osmosis in our historic hometown of Freestone.

Sauerkraut and kombucha have the rapt attention of young people, along with nutrition and health experts. This festival has become a way to bring together community, and to celebrate and learn from each other. The intention was always for Osmosis to be a nexus in the continuity: being a sustainable business by helping to sustain our community is part of the vision unfolding.

In the larger community of the spa world, Osmosis has had the good fortune of working with a passionate group of professional spa owners and operators from all over the country who understand the link between personal and planetary wellness. Now in its fifth year, this group is maturing. Along these same lines, as one of the founders of Green Spa Network, I am most excited about the new website being built by one of the country’s leading design firms. This will be the go-to place for anyone in the spa world seeking to become part of the global imperative for sustainability. We are preparing to host our 4th Annual Green Spa Congress in Sundance, Utah.

There is no doubt in my mind that the spa community has enormous potential to affect the culture in significant and profound ways. There are well over 15,000 brick and mortar locations where people go everyday searching for personal transformation. Each of these places is staffed with devoted professionals whose intention is healing, and to reconcile mind, body and soul. It is not a large step for these crucial activities to become part of humanity’s immune system response to what is happening on the planet.

At Osmosis, we’re dedicated to manifesting the change we want to be, and we’re always looking for ways to improve. If you have ideas to share, we want to hear them.

In the meantime, thanks again for answering our survey questions. Happy Earth Day….and many more.

Earth Day 1970 achieved an unusual political solidarity, with support from Republicans and Democrats, rich and poor, and urban dwellers and farmers. The first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts.

The Art of Convening

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 23:08:01 GMT

Ever since meeting Craig Neal years ago at a Social Ventures Network meeting, I have been interested in his life work, or “the art of convening.” So often the meetings I participate in -- especially phone conferences -- seem to fall short of realizing their potential. It’s always been a big question for me: how do we make our shared interests and passions come to fruition in the most meaningful and effective ways?

I got my chance to examine this question more fully when I participated in a Thought Leaders gathering last Friday at Genentech, a company located south of San Francisco. More than 80 people had assembled to celebrate the completion of the book Craig and his wife Patricia have been working on for many years: The Art of Convening: Authentic Engagement in Meetings, Gatherings, and Conversations.

Heading into the corporate headquarters of one of the largest bio-tech firms in the country, past security and into a vast, neon lit meeting room was somewhat intimidating. However, the warmth of those in attendance completely outshone any institutional qualities, making the gathering feel downright cozy. From the moment I walked into the room, I felt a deep sense of authenticity; not surprising, as this is a key element to Craig and Patricia’s work.

We sat in a circle around an altar adorned with flowers. (Ancients knew that wisdom emerges when people sit in circle.) Early remarks reminded us of the observations in the Socratic dialogues that all learning is recollection. By listening to each other and expressing ourselves we rediscover what we already know. I was fascinated to learn that this group has been gathering since 1998, right there in the heart of the Silicon Valley, to form a nexus of leadership and personal development. The attendees were from the largest financial, business and educational institutions in the Bay Area, and included many strategic planners.

Basically these meetings have been about the technology of relationship - for the sake of a world that works for everyone. Simply put, convening is authentic engagement that connects to inner wisdom. Every personal encounter has the potential to be transformative, to expand the sense of the sacred. There is trust in the magic of the collective.

Throughout the morning we alternated between meeting in small groups of four to participate in highly engaging, interactive conversations, and returning to the larger group to share insights. We reminded ourselves of the centrality of loving in our lives. We explored the concept that quality of action does not match the complexity of our problems; rather, our actions are a reflection of the quality of our conversations. Convening is The Source of direction. Convening is about connecting, and about creating a construct where everyone contributes. To convene well is to anticipate, welcome, engage, extend, and culminate.

It was an exhilarating morning as the wisdom of those assembled unfolded, and we shared the gift of Craig and Patricia’s new book.

The Salmon are Coming Back

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 22:08:13 GMT

The salmon are coming back,
five words that contain a world of hope.

A dozen years ago poet and activist Gary Snyder* came to Osmosis. His vanguard writings on Buddhism and the environment have been a major inspiration in my life, and it’s a rare experience to meet someone who’s been so influential. After his treatments, I went over to the spa to greet him and show him the back part of the property. This was before the meditation garden, and I wanted to share with him my vision for the garden, and the aspirations of our community to restore the salmon run in the Salmon Creek, which forms the western boarder of Osmosis for 1,000 feet.

Gary thoroughly enjoyed the Oz experience, and encouraged me to build the garden. He also admired the intention about the salmon, but such an ambitious goal seemed generations away to both of us at the time. Until the 1960’s the Coho salmon run was so strong that the creek nearly overflowed with fish when they swam upstream to breed Old timers say you could walk across the stream on the backs of the fish! Then, in a few short years, they completely disappeared, the viability of their gravel spawning grounds ruined by the silt that filled the creek due to erosive timber, agricultural and building practices – and drought. In fact, from an all time high of half a million salmon, only a few thousand were left in California.

Two years ago a collaborative effort among state, federal and local conservancy groups resulted in a promising breeding program where Coho salmon were taken from neighboring Russian River and the Lagunitas Creek watersheds. The fish were bred, and their fry planted in Salmon Creek and many of its tributaries. Scores of people helped, from volunteers and private owners, to a host of interested agencies. These included California Fish and Game, the State Coastal Conservancy, the California Water Resources Control Board, the Community Foundation, the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center and the restoration firm Prunuske Chatham, Inc. among others. (It’s amazing to me what strategic alliances can produce, and something to consider for the environmental challenges ahead of us.)

A few days ago, I received a request for permission to access our property to build special in-stream habitat structures to provide protection for the re-emergent strain of salmon that are now coming up our creek. As it turns out, the exposed gravel beds on the Osmosis section of the creek are ideal for spawning, and second year fry have been found in the pools- as shown in the picture above!

I knew all of you who appreciate Osmosis would also appreciate this wonderful news. We’re grateful to be a part of the story.

*Gary is often called ‘the poet laureate of Deep Ecology.’ Besides being a poet and environmentalist, he is a travel writer, essayist, educator, and translator. He won the Pulitzer Prize in 1975 for his poetry.

Osmosis Hosts first in series of Vitality Programs

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 19:19:29 GMT

To celebrate the new year*, and in our evolving effort to reflect what our clients wants in a spa, Osmosis began the first in a series of Vitality Programs on Thursday, February 3rd. It was an auspicious start, under a new moon, with trees and flowers just beginning to blossom after the heavy rains. At Osmosis, we believe that good health means more than simply the absence of pain or disease, it means vitality. So, as a community, guests and Osmosis staff gathered to discuss the nature of vitality: how it manifests, and how it benefits us. (Of course, we can’t have vitality without delicious food, so the evening began with some fabulous cheeses and wine, strawberries, stuffed mushrooms, and other ever so vital treats)!

Then we convened to our upstairs meeting room. The conversation was lead by Maria Freebairn-Smith, a practitioner of Middendorf Breathwork, whose basic principle is to establish an awareness of breath moving throughout the body, the better to create flow and balance. As part of the Vitality Program, Maria’s been working with our massage experts to incorporate breathing practices into their sessions.

It was a dialogue of lively ideas in an hour that flew past, and left us wanting more. More time to talk. More time to listen. More time to learn. Clearly, vitality is a charged word, and a quality we’re all looking for. For some of us, vitality means energy, creativity, connectedness and joy. For others, it means radiance, and a sense of possibility. Strength. Aliveness. When we have it, and when we feel it in our bodies, it translates to feelings of wholeness and fluidity, of contentment and peace. Finally, we talked about the results of vitality, and discovered that while each of us understands it a little differently, we know it to be a powerful force in our lives. We become passionate and generous; we are at ease and confident, playful and open hearted. “I feel like I can soar,” said one of our guests. “I am free,” said another.

But, how to incorporate the giving of vitality into the overall Osmosis experience? One idea that got sound approval was the possibility of being able to sleep after an enzyme bath or massage. Sometimes it’s hard to interrupt the deep sense of well being, and drive home, so we thought about different ways to keep the euphoria flowing. In the warmer seasons, we might string hammocks in the garden.. It was agreed that hammocks need not be separate, as long as the intent is silence and privacy – with perhaps a pillow and blanket thrown in!

With many more talks ahead of us, we ended the conversation here. But we’ll keep you updated as we meet over the months, and together create a program that we hope to make an ongoing and dynamic part of life at Oz. As for our first night, a most special thanks to Maria for facilitating the group, and allowing us to really and truly consider the concept of vitality.

*According to Chinese tradition, this year – the year of the Rabbit – is a time when you can catch your breath, and find calm and serenity within. Those who interpret the zodiac recommend the Rabbit as a period to create a peaceful lifestyle for yourself and those you love, and to find ways to live harmoniously with the environment, and with your community. The focus is on home, and security.

Osmosis Helps Protect Freestone

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 22:29:24 GMT

Osmosis participated with local businesses to get the old Freestone water tank repaired and running to protect the charming hamlet from fire danger. Along with Wildflower Bakery and Freestone Vineyards, Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary helped do the right thing for their community. Too long the town of Freestone was at risk without adequate water supply to fight possible fires.

This issue was close to the heart of Osmosis founder, Michael Stusser, so he was happy to put his weight behind this important effort. Now, Freestone is safe as the previously out-of-service fire hydrants are working again. Read the full story here on Sonoma West Times & News.

Osmosis really cares about our community- thank you for making us a part of Freestone history, for 25 years and counting!

Local Movie Premier Screening - A Communal Memior

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 01:06:59 GMT

Dear Friends, We are excited to be hosting a very special evening for our community this Thursday night.

The première showing of “A Communal Memoir” will be held November 18th at the Occidental Center for the arts at 6:30 pm. Admission is free and donations are requested.

A complementary champagne reception including a cedar enzyme foot baths will follow at Osmosis. Please RSVP for the reception at 823-8231

Please join us to share in some of the most interesting local history. As many of us know, West Sonoma County was the epicenter of the back to the land movement in the late 60’s when a tidal wave of people flowed out of the Haight Ashbury district of San Francisco and came up here to live on the land. Things had gone sour in the city with the Hippie Movement in the summer of 1968. Bill Wheeler along with others invited folks to come up and live on their extensive holdings totaling over a thousand acres between Lou Gotlieb’s Morning Star, The Pastures, Star Mountain and Wheeler’s Ranch. Delia Moon has spent years on her PHD dissertation that chronicles the impact of this experience on peoples lives and made it into an hour film.

Here are Delia’s words about the film:

In A Communal Memoir members of four Sonoma County communities explore what we may learn from the rupture that occurred in mainstream American society in the 1960’s as a generation widened its concept of home to mean “living on the earth,” and created a new consciousness based on interconnection.

The movie was filmed by Kitty Green (Little Red Hen Productions) and directed by Delia Moon as part of her doctoral dissertation, At Home in the Counterculture.

Osmosis Enzyme Bath is Named “America's Most Spiritual Spa” by Spirituality and Health Magazine

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 19:01:16 GMT

FREESTONE, CA, November 4, 2010—Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary, the only venue in the U.S. to offer Japanese-style cedar enzyme bath treatments, has been named “America’s Most Spiritual Spa” by the prestigious magazine, Spirituality & Health.

The idea for Osmosis began when its founder, Michael Stusser, had his own life-changing healing and spiritual experience in Japan, which convinced him that it was his mission to offer the treatments in this country in a beautiful Japanese-style environment. Osmosis, which began humbly in 1985 in a small backyard facility made from a recycled chicken coop, is now a spacious structure surrounded by exquisite Japanese gardens. The full service spa also currently offers a wide range of treatments in addition to its signature cedar enzyme baths.
www.osmosis.com

“This award is so meaningful to us since it resonates with the deeper intentions of Osmosis,” explains Stusser. “Far from a pampering palace, we began with the idea of creating a safe, beautiful place to release stress, anxiety and pain, and we have stuck to that intention through good and bad times, never compromising it as a fundamental value. It leads directly into our long-term goals of being a vitality center, being environmentally sensitive and giving back to the community, and what could be more spiritual than that?”

In the course of its 25-year history, Osmosis has grown to become a Sonoma County landmark and an internationally known retreat for local residents and visitors from around the globe. For eleven years, it has been awarded “Best Day Spa in Sonoma County” in the North Bay Bohemian by popular vote.

In addition, daytime television's fastest-growing talk show, The Doctors, featured the Osmosis Enzyme Bath as one of the Top Ten Health Trends of 2010, and. The Osmosis meditation garden was recently identified by Sukiya Living, a magazine for Japanese garden aficionados, as one of the most authentic Japanese-style gardens in the US.

Click here to read the full article.

Robert Ketchell Will Visit Osmosis and Give Garden Tour

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:41:33 GMT

Japanese garden expert Robert Ketchell from England will be visiting Osmosis next week. He will be conducting a special tour of the garden on Thursday morning July 22nd at 11am.

This is Roberts first visit to the garden since it was completed in 2003. Ironically, this is also the year of the Ox and it just so happens that the Osmosis garden is based on the Chinese parable of The Ox and The Ox Herder. On the tour you will see how this story, typically shown in wood block prints, is depicted with stone, plants and water features in the Osmosis meditation garden.

Accompanying Robert on the tour and commenting will be Zen Priest Ginny "Mysho" Mathews whose 35 year study of Zen has been focused on the Koan of the Ox and the Ox herder. Ginny has been leading meditation sessions for years at Osmosis and is a senior student of Sasaki Roshi.

The tour is complementary but reservations are required. Please call guest services at 707-823-8231 for your place on the journey.

Weishan Lui, Chinese Harpist, is Performing in Concert at Osmosis

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:12:43 GMT

The magic of moon lit nights in Japanese gardens and festivals remain as one of my fondest memories from living in Japan. One of the most celebrated traditions of Asian gardens from centuries past was to hold festivals to honor significant points in the cycles of nature. A special spirit inhabits the air that is almost palpable. It has been most gratifying to recreate the experience here at Osmosis with our moon viewing ceremonies. The idea of having a Chinese harp concert came from the late Kit Nuesteader, a music aficionado who co-founded the Redwood Arts Council. She suggested that Weishan Liu was an extraordinary performer whose music would be a perfect fit for the atmosphere in our meditation garden. Kit could not have been more on target. From the moment Wei Shan stepped into the garden she recognized the deep intention of the garden and called it a temple. Her first concert at Osmosis was in 2005. She surprised us by bringing guitarist George Winston to accompany her. In addition to having grown up studying with the most revered teachers of the Chinese table harp in China, Wei Shan has created a learning center in the US that plays a key role in preserving the traditional art form of this instrument.

She plays not only in orchestras but has a penchant for jazz and improvisation, including performances with the Grateful Dead.
All of us at Osmosis are exited to have her back for the first time in years to play her captivating ethereal music in the meditation garden the evening of Thursday, July 22nd.

I have attached a few photos of her very first performance in 2005 with George Winston, Myself and Genvive Taylor just for fun. Hope you can join us for a marvelous evening that will include cedar enzyme footbaths and hors d'oeuvres.

Osmosis Founder Update on Spa Refresh

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 23:49:43 GMT

Just had to take a moment to share all the exciting activity taking place at Osmosis this week. The spa is closed for a major dress up and there are several teams of people working away to bring about quite the transformation.

The front lawn is being set up with permanent umbrella stands to provide shade for picnicking in anticipation of the many who will want to enjoy the sumptuous box lunches now available to our guests.

We are all very excited about the fresh paint and a new color scheme is being applied to our building.

Out back a whole new guest area is being opened up for our new "One-day Vision Quest" package to be offered later this season. We are cutting a trial into a magnificent wild riparian area on the last untouched part of our 5.5-acre property. It¹s profoundly beautiful and quiet back there!

We are establishing some special places with zero gravity chairs off the trail for deep reflection, communion with nature and the most healing balm of all: REST!

Inside the spa we are doing a major cycle of deep cleaning and reorganization. Including the installation of a new VOIP phone system that is going to allow us to provide a superior telephone experience.

Our doors reopen June 12th and we will be thrilled to share our new Oz with you!

Freestone Fermentation Festival - May 15th Noon- 5pm

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:57:19 GMT

The small, rural village that is Freestone, CA packs a whole lot of fermentation into it's little corner of Sonoma county. The population hovers around 100 residents, but the local businesses share a common theme... FERMENTATION! Osmosis Day Spa Santuary boasts the only authentic Cedar Enzyme Bath in North America. Wild Flour Bakery is the place to be for fresh organic breads and pastries. And, Freestone Vineyards completes the fermentation family with their amazing biodynamic wine.

Here is a video of last years festivities.

Osmosis to Participate in Resorts in Bloom Fundraising Event

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 17:22:54 GMT

Press Release

April 28, 2010

Press Contact: Jennifer Neeley 707-869-5977 xt. 3313 jneeley@wchealth.org

Who: West County Health Centers, River to Coast Children's Services, West County Community Services

What: Resorts in Bloom- A Garden Tour for Charity

When: June 11, 12, 13 Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Why: To raise money for health and human services in West Sonoma County and to enjoy some of the most beautiful resorts and gardens in the area.

How: Tickets are on sale now at www.resortsinbloom.com $30 day or $60 for a 3- day pass, $50 for VIP events

Listen to the Birds singing and smell the roses at the annual Resorts in Bloom- a Garden tour for charity. Enjoy a mini escape and rejuvenate your senses with the abundant beauty of western Sonoma County. Tour the finest gardens in western Sonoma County at more than 15 resort properties. Enjoy historic landmarks, a zen meditation garden, rare specimen plants, master gardener presentations, accommodation tours, and much much more. Special brunch, lunch, and Fine Dining experiences available along the tour. Secure tickets to this popular event at www.resortsinbloom.com

Earth Day is Local's Night at Osmosis

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:43:29 GMT

Here at Osmosis we celebrate Earth Day every day, but on Earth Day? Now, that's special. In keeping with our monthly tradition of a fun, social evening at the spa, this Earth Day, April 22nd will be a night to remember. We will provide drinks (adult beverages as well as our superb Osmosis blend tea), healthy food and community-style cedar enzyme baths as always. And this month, we will feature Trathen Heckman as our guest speaker.

Trathen Heckman is the founding executive director of Daily Acts Organization, publisher of Ripples, an award-winning journal and a backyard farmer. He is the former executive director of Green Sangha Organization and is on the board of directors for Transition US. Seeking to inspire the engagement of hearts, minds and senses, Trathen educates and works with community, business and municipal leaders to create programs, policy and models which harness the power of nature and inspired action to restore the health of our lives and communities. Trathen has given oodles of presentations on Sustainability, Ecological Design and the power of our daily actions to renew the world. He lives in the Petaluma River Watershed where he grows food, medicine and wonder while working to compost apathy and lack.

Here is a video of Trathen at home sharing his sustainable lifestyle.

Sweet. from Pride Wright on Vimeo.

In addition to the food, foot baths and the presentation, we have a special menu of services only available on Local's night. For one evening a week we offer a lovely sampling of our massage and facial services as follows;

15-minute Chair Massage: $20 - 30-minute Express Facial: $45

45-minute Table Massage: $65

Local's Night is a great evening to relax, socialize and connect with like-minded folks in the area. The ambiance can't be beat and the cedar baths are a cozy spot to mingle with friends new and old.

Chinese Journalists Visit Osmosis

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 18:58:28 GMT

Recently, Osmosis was visited by a group of Chinese Journalists touring Sonoma County. While most of them were focusing on wine, the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau knew Osmosis was a stop not to be missed. The weather was beautiful, and the journalists couldn't have been happier. The highest compliment Osmosis received was their opinion of our gardens- our visitors said it made them feel like they were back home, and that our Asian aesthetic is authentic.

Take a look at some pictures from that beautiful day!

We treated our guests to some delicious food and tea in the tub room while they soaked their feet. Their SCTB hosts had to drag them out of the garden to stay on their touring schedule. But can you blame them!?!? It is paradise back there, come take a look.