Heart Consciousness Church

Our History

Learn about Harbin Hot Springs and the founding of Heart Consciousness Church

ABOUT OUR CHURCH
STATEMENT OF CONSCIOUSNESS
HISTORY
PHOTOS
THE POST: BLOG

Sacred Springs

For hundreds of years, this land and its springs were a sacred healing place for the region’s Native people. This was during an era when different groups may have fought over territory or resources. But the paths to these springs and their surrounding land were collectively held as neutral territory, and members of all Nations knew they could come here safely, enjoy the waters, and abide in peace.

Historic Lake County

Around 1856, a non-Native named James M. Harbin is believed to have taken control and ownership of this land; and the names Harbin Hot Springs and Harbin Mountain come from him.
James Harbin’s tenure didn’t last long, and by 1870, the next owner, Richard Williams, had built the Harbin Springs Health and Pleasure Resort on this location, featuring a large hotel building on the hillside below the springs. This hotel burned to the ground and was replaced by two new hotels, which also burned long ago; and the land changed hands and character several times over the ensuing 100 years. It was owned and operated, variously, as a Victorian resort, then a hunting lodge, then a boxing camp, and then a free-form university and experimental drug haven for hippies (this much-maligned incarnation was during Robert Hambrick’s ownership, in the late 1960s). No matter its operational focus, though, the hot springs themselves have always been at the heart of the Harbin experience.

For a detailed look into all this history, we recommend the book Harbin Hot Springs – Healing Waters, Sacred Land, by Ellen Klages.

Heart Consciousness Church

In 1972, the then-neglected and dilapidated property was purchased by Robert Hartley (whom many know today as Ishvara). He and the community of people who were drawn here began repairing and improving the springs, pools, and buildings.

In 1975, the ownership of Harbin Hot Springs was reorganized, as Hartley sold it to Heart Consciousness Church, Inc., the non-profit religious organization that continues to own the property and run Harbin Hot Springs today as a retreat center.

Over the next four decades, Harbin attracted a vital residential community, and ever-increasing numbers of visiting guests.

Harbin School of Healing Arts History

The Harbin School of Healing Arts originated in 1979 as the Niyama School of Healing Arts. In 1985, it was purchased by the creator of Watsu, Harold Dull (pictured) and renamed the School of Shiatsu and Massage. Eventually the school was operated by the Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association (WABA), and then the Bodywork Career Institute, LLC. In December 2013, Harbin Hot Springs purchased the school which had become a leading center for bodywork bringing highly renowned teachers from around the country to teach the certification programs. Sadly, the Valley Fire of 2015 destroyed the facilities, and the school was closed.

Nevertheless, our students have gone on to find the freedom of their own practice or to work at premier spas in the Bay Area such as Cavallo Point Resort, Auberge du Soleil, Calistoga Ranch and many more throughout the country and the world, and right here within Harbin's Health Services Department.

2015 Valley Fire

During the Valley Fire of 2015, more than 35 Harbin buildings of various functions were burned beyond repair, while thousands of mature shade trees, and huge swaths of forest were destroyed. But throughout the entire devastation of the Valley Fire and its tumultuous aftermath, Harbin’s springs continued to flow. By 2019, all the burned building debris throughout Harbin’s property had been cleared. The Mainside Pool Area structures and concrete decking has all been replaced, and temporary buildings put into service for guests. And so the rebuilding of Harbin’s permanent facilities continues – even as we welcome guests back to the springs.

Looking Ahead

The next phase of Harbin’s history remains in some ways unknown. It’s a history that is being written as we live it – and much like the springs themselves, it’s fluid and dynamic. We hope you’ll join us, and help us make Harbin’s history together.

We encourage you to sign up at the bottom of this page to receive occasional newsletters keeping you informed on our rebuilding progress, news and updates.

We couldn’t do it without your love and your support. If you feel inclined to help with our rebuilding efforts, please visit the Donation page to learn about how you can contribute to Harbin’s future.

Harbin Hot Springs

A Spiritual Retreat Center
All are welcome here.
Harbin Hot Springs strives to provide a safe retreat sanctuary for guests.
We will not tolerate any form of harassment and/or discrimination.
Harbin is an alcohol and drug free retreat center.
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