Not to distract from the Important Scientific Discussion, but Esalen is as wonderful today as it was back then. The hot tubs and showers have been rebuilt, and the scenery is just as striking. Out of this world.
How does it compare to Harbin? I was just there and it was also lovely (a bit too much like a resort than i'd prefer, though)
Also off of the scientific tangent: If you find yourself in a hot tub with a beautiful nude and no idea what to say, compare poetry to liquid thermodynamics. "Rock Star" doesn't begin to cover it.
Very different vibe from Harbin, plus of course the ocean. Much more of a sense of "community" at Esalen, while at Harbin you generally interact with the people you came with, if any.
If you're there over Thanksgiving, say hi.