Spiritual Practice • Conscious Living • Earth Stewardship

Cultivate Conscious Living

A spiritual community devoted to inner awakening, service,
and earth stewardship through daily practice and shared life
on the land.

Our Way of Life

Spiritual Practice, Community & Earth Stewardship

Sunburst is a community of practice in the foothills north of Santa Barbara, where spiritual awakening, shared life, and care for the Earth come together as a living path.

Spiritual Practice

Learn time-tested practices of meditation, mantra, and conscious living rooted in the lineage of Paramahansa Yogananda.

Explore Practice

Community Life

Participate in Satsang, retreats, shared meals, and daily life within a supportive spiritual community devoted to inner growth and service.

Join the Community

Selfless Service

Participate in meaningful daily service that supports the sanctuary, the land, and one another as part of shared spiritual life.

Serve With Us

Earth Stewardship

Engage in organic farming, regenerative gardening, and sustainable living as a spiritual practice rooted in care for the Earth.

Care for the Land

Fall Equinox sunrise at Sunburst Labyrinth
Farmer Sean
Farmer Sean

Founded in 1969

A Living Lineage

A Living Path of Practice and Service

Sunburst is a spiritual sanctuary and community of practice in the foothills north of Santa Barbara.

Founded by Norman Paulsen, a direct disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda, Sunburst has grown as a living expression of spiritual practice, selfless service, and care for the Earth.

Here, daily life itself becomes the path — through meditation, shared work, community living, and stewardship of the land.

Testimonials

What People Say
About Us

This place, its pristine 4,000 acres of natural beauty, the teachings and especially the people that make it up are truly AMAZING! I look forward to returning as soon as possible and encourage any open-minded soul seeking individual to do the same.

Anthony G.

Newport Beach, CA

Sunburst is more than a Center; they are a family. Many founding members are still with each other after 50 years, proving the success and sustainability of the Center. The consciousness of these members is simply beautiful.

Cindy W.

Santa Barbara, CA

I was fortunate enough to be able to stay at Sunburst for two days and attend their Sunday service. I have always been curious about intentional community, Kriya yoga, and spiritual practices… is a perfect combination of all of these things. 

Meiyi C.

Oakland, CA