The American Soul Rush explores how Esalen Institute paved the way for ordinary people to explore spirituality without affiliating with established denominations, leading millions of Americans to identify as spiritual, not religious. This book delves into the foundational influence of Esalen on the growth and spread of diverse spiritual practices, affirming individuals’ self-worth and possibilities for positive personal change. Additionally, it sheds light on the concept of spiritual privilege and the ways that gender is central to religion and spirituality in most contexts.