Itinerary: Reflection and Meditation

As our lives are jammed with images, indecision, fear and worry, we may be seeking ways to clear our heads. Take some time this weekend to relax and reflect. There are many skilled practitioners of relaxation techniques in Los Angeles, and there are quiet places to nourish the soul. Celebrate the autumnal equinox and give your mind a break. You just might find solace in pursuing a calm and peaceful state.

Friday

Soak in 100% pure alkaline mineral waters at Beverly Hot Springs (308 N. Oxford Ave., L.A., [323] 734-7000; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.). Natural artesian springs fill hot and cold pools. Beverly Hot Springs provides shiatsu massage as well as steam and dry saunas. A restaurant and beauty salon are also available. The spa is cool and dark and, best of all, quiet.

At dusk, visit one of Southern California’s many public beaches, and actually get out of your car, walk to the water’s edge and watch the sunset. The ocean has an eternal, constant quality that many find calm and reassuring.

Saturday

The Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine (17190 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades, [310] 454-4114; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) was started in 1950 by Paramahansa Yoganado. Five major religions of the world are represented on the 10-acre site. The lovely lake, lush vegetation and inviting little buildings provide an atmosphere for resting and thinking.

“Always look forward; never look back.” Those words were spoken by Father Junipero Serra. The Serra Retreat (3402 Serra Road, Malibu, [310] 456-6631) is named after the father of California’s missions. Its beautiful grounds, vast ocean view and flowering gardens are open to adults only daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. No picnics; no pets. The buildings at the retreat are only available for reserved groups.

Time seems to stand still when the noises of civilization are absent. Yoga is a popular way for stressed humans to unwind and refresh the spirit. New to yoga? From 7:30 to 9 p.m., open chanting and meditation are offered at Siddha Yoga Meditation Center of Los Angeles (1845 S. Bundy Drive, West Los Angeles; [310] 207-9909). Many classes are offered at the center, and the cafe serves breakfast and dinner. There’s also a bookstore on the premises for education about the ancient art.

Sunday

In the middle of a huge city sits the first church in Los Angeles. Visit the Old Plaza Church (535 N. Main St., Los Angeles; [213] 629-3101), which was dedicated in 1822. Part of the Olvera Street section, the tiny church, originally known as Nuestra Senora de los Angeles, was built as a sort of auxiliary mission. Like most missions, the exterior is simple, and the painting-filled interior is ornate and has an elaborate ceiling. Outside the church, the bustle and activity of tourists remind you of the present. But inside, you can escape to another time when things moved just a bit slower.

Japanese gardens are spare and tranquil. Visit the Zen Garden at the Huntington Library (1151 Oxford Road, San Marino; [626] 405-2100; 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; adults, $10, seniors, $8.50, students 12 and older, $7).

Lion-dog statues guard the wall that surrounds the garden. Once inside, you will find a temple bell, ponds, a moon bridge and benches for contemplation.

A traditional Japanese house sits across the lake. Look for the little courtyard that contains a bonsai collection. A path leads to a serene wooded area with trees and shrubs native to Asia.