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SPIRIT OF THE ELEMENTS

A year-long series of 5 x day retreats for participants to deepen their relationship with the seasons and the qualities they inspire in us according to classical Chinese five element theory.

Taking place at the Yoga Garden located in Knepp Rewilding Estate in the beautiful Sussex countryside.


Next intake - Sept 2026

12th September 2026 - Late Summer / Earth
21st November 2026 - Autumn / Metal
16th January 2027 - Winter / Water
17th April 2027 - Spring / Wood
26th June 2027 - Fire / Summer

A journey through seasons and soul...

In Chinese Medicine theory, the five natural elements exist within us, as they do in nature. This way of understanding the world was based on close observation of the cyclical energies of nature through the seasons; concepts that later became absorbed into the development of Taoism. 

The natural forces of yin yang, qi and the five elements offer a holistic health model that does not separate external changes such as seasonal movements from internal changes such as reactions and emotions. When we study nature’s rhythms and patterns, we can learn how to find balance and support our own health year-round.

Each workshop is an invitation to live in alignment with nature and an opportunity for embodied learning as we immerse in each element in its own season. The whole of the series guides us through a full turn of the five element wheel.

 

Alongside the wheel, we journey through the five spirit axis; the lesser-known theory of the inter-connected aspects of the psyche originating from early texts of classical Chinese medicine.

The five elements offer a profound philosophical perspective that is not just to be studied, but to be lived, explored, pondered and absorbed. Each season provides a brand-new opportunity to deepen our experience of nature, our more-than-human companions, our-selves.

We will explore the resonances, activities and issues of each element during its own season with a blend of theory and practice including qi gong, yoga, sensory nature walks, meditations, yoga nidra, mindfulness invitations, seasonal postcards, Louise’s delicious seasonal soups, Anne-Marie's seasonal teas and extensive manuals written by us both for each day.

This course invites an experience of the qualities of the five seasons, elements, spirits and how they show up in us, offering a profound and potentially transformative perspective on how we experience nature, our selves, and our connections with the more-than-human world.

We have just completed our first journey through the seasons with a beautiful group of attendees, and look forwrad to the next intake in September 2027. Spaces are filling up. It is ideal if you can attend every date but options are available for dropins if this is not possible. Please do get in touch.

“This has been the most incredibly profound journey. I feel more at peace with myself

(Previous workshop participant)

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