I’ve been busy collaborating with my friend and fellow Shiatsu practitioner Vicky Evans of Wye Valley Shiatsu. We’ve created a series of workshops, ‘Return to Self’ where we will share some of the things we have learned about coming into connection with ourselves and the world around us.
I’m really excited to share this with you – so excited I’ve actually written a blog!
Why join us?
For many of us life can be stressful and full of responsibility, and in fulfilling all the things we must do as adults, we lose our way. It’s not simply a case of retracing our steps because we’re no longer the people we were when we started on the path away from our selves. Our minds may be full of ideas about what we should do to reconnect, but it’s a disembodied knowledge that doesn’t live in our bones, leading to little action and much guilt.
We invite you to take part in this series of workshops where, over 6 seasonal sessions* you will learn to connect with and be truly present in your body. Using a Bodyful approach and the beautiful metaphors of 5 Element Theory we hope you will find a new path back to self.
*You are welcome to come to the whole series or drop in as you wish.
The first session is on 15th June – you’ll have to sign up quickly if we are to go ahead!
Expect:
- practical self-care approaches such as self-shiatsu, stretches and movement sequences
- exploring what it means to be bodyful
- reflection and meditation on seasonal energy shifts and the patterns we experience or hold in our bodies.
The gentle, creative workshops will be suitable for people interested in:
- deepening their commitment to personal wellbeing
- learning more about seasonal energy shifts and Five Element Theory
- exploring self-shiatsu approaches and acupressure for personal use
- finding out more about what it means to be bodyful
- seeking time out to explore seasonal changes in their bodies
- connecting with others who have a similar curiosity and desire for wellbeing.
You don’t need any experience of Shiatsu to take part and it’s accessible for all levels of physical ability.
What are Five-Element Theory and Bodyfulness?
We hear a lot about mindfulness and the benefits of developing awareness of our thoughts and emotions. Bodyfulness takes this awareness into our bodies – what are the physical sensations associated with our thoughts and emotions? How do they evolve and shift as we bring them into focus? “Bodyfulness begins with a strong awareness of the physical self in a place supportive of contemplation and deep understanding of bodily nature and desire.” Christine Caldwell
Five Element Theory shows how the different energies/forces in nature meet to create harmony and balance. Its rich metaphors help us to make sense of ourselves, our bodies and our world. It underpins Shiatsu, Acupunture and Qigong.