Wilbur Hot Springs January 2026 Newsletter (draft)

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Subject: Wilbur Hot Springs January 2026 Newsletter (draft)

The Art of Letting Go

And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been. - Rainer Maria Rilke

Did you remember your: Towel? Sandals? Peace of Mind? Our exit sign reminds us to take with us the sense of peace we gained during our visit. To gain that peace, we must first release stress and worry -- a task for which hot medicinal water is uniquely suited!

The art of bathing -- bringing gratitude to the waters and allowing them to embrace us --is a ritual many of us know very well. And yet, while the warm water physically unbinds our muscles, the magic of Wilbur lies in the natural setting. Removed from the reach of notifications and constant availability, we find the opportunity to fully "let go," freeing the body and mind, elevating the spirit.

While letting go is often equated with loss, it is more akin to pruning a tree so that the core can flourish. This internal gardening requires us to un-clench. Picture the mind as a pair of hands with a powerful grip. When we hold onto worry or stress or being right, we use all our mental energy just to keep those fists closed.

Closed fists are useful for fighting, but much less capable of receiving. What a relief it is to open those "hands" and drop their burden. How refreshing to be ready again for new thoughts, inspiration, and connection. Letting go is the prerequisite to receiving.

On your next visit, as you step out of the water and back toward the world, remember that this openness is yours to keep. The art of letting go doesn't end when the skin dries; it lives in the quiet choice to keep the hands open and the spirit unburdened. Here's hoping you carry that space with you -- as a reminder of the gentle grace found in releasing that which no longer serves you.

We hope to see you again soon!

Stewardship Notes

Megan's primary stewardship task this month has been fire mitigation! Work traders play a crucial role in helping us safeguard both natural landscapes and residential areas. Through strategic vegetation management and the establishment of defensible zones, we aim to prevent the devastating impacts of uncontrolled wildfires, and encourage the growth of native species. This practice not only enhances the safety of homes and communities but also fosters a more resilient and biodiverse ecosystem for the future.

March stewardship work trade dates will be sent out soon! If you are curious about participating, be sure to join our Stewardship List today!

2026 California Naturalist Course Enrollment Open!
Sunday, April 12 - Friday, April 17
This week long intensive course immerses you in the wonders of geology, flora, fauna, and more, inviting you to slow down and connect with the delicate intricacies of the natural world. The program blends a nature-focused curriculum with hands-on explorations, problem-solving challenges, participatory science initiatives, and community service opportunities. We hope you'll join us for a week of joyful, nature-based learning! Call or email our guest services team for sample curriculum and more information to reserve your space!

Click here to learn more about the course!

Hotel Happenings

Morning Zen Meditation

Since the holidays, we have been pleased to offer early morning meditation with our longtime (since 1981) Healing Arts Practitioner, Reverend Kokai Shalamah Yahchove. We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate her on her recent ordination as a Soto Zen Buddhist Priest, and welcome Wilbur guests to meditate with her on mornings when she is with us at Wilbur.

March special:

20% off your stay March 1-5 & 8-12 in Cabins, Solar Lodge, and Hotel.

Excludes the Cabin Suite. Holidays excluded. Discount applied at time of booking.

May not be combined with other offers or discounts.

Use booking code MARCH on qualifying dates.

Have you heard?! Sign up for our Last Minute Deals list! Occasionally we have vacancies at the last minute and will be sending out special offers to everyone on this list. If you are open to being flexible then you don't want to miss these great savings. We will be sending out some steamy savings over the next two months, so sign up to stay in the loop.

Upcoming Special Programs:

2/5 - 2/6: Music with Esther Riesenburg

2/13 - 2/14: Music with What the Folk

2/16 - 2/17: Watercolor Class with Martha Esch & Music with Martha & Mark

2/20 - 2/21: Music with John Malkin

2/23 - 2/24: Music with Wild Mustard

2/26 - 2/27: Qi Gong with Michael Amster

2/27 - 2/28: Music with Wild Doves

Book your next Day Use visit Online

Day Use is available for booking online here.

Photo credit: Meg Solaegui (top) Ericka DeFord (middle)